Bikinis were not always fit for toddlers; though they were accepted by the ancient Romans, bikinis made waves when they first appeared on the modern market, according to a slideshow essay from Slate:

“When the bikini first arrived, its revealing cut scandalized even the French fashion models who were supposed to wear it; they refused, and the original designer had to enlist a stripper instead.”

The very origin of the name “bikini” is tied to the nuclear tests conducted on Bikini Atoll, which explains why attractive bikini-clad ladies were known as “bombshells.” So next time your significant other salaciously eyes a bikini, let him off the hook – he is merely appreciating history.

The Right To Bare Tummies [Slate]
(Photo: Todd Ehlers)

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