Vintage swimwear by Catalina are classics. In the 1950's, bold new designs were created for collections that this California label produced to attract a sun loving customer. In 1951 the "Carribean* collection" showed sea themed graphics on their daring strapless one piece stretch swimsuits, along with other styles including men's trunks to match.
Go Carribean* with Catalina!
...Catalina's new Carribean* collection, beautiful new designs, gay sun-filled colors, fanciful patterns and fabrics, all created with a true Carribbean flavor!
shown:
STAR FISH fanciful design hand-printed on knitted two-way stretch Celanese, Lastex and Nylon.
Features Catalina's new patented POWERLIFT bra. Exciting Carribean* colors.
Matching men's STAR FISH trunk.
"as featured in LIFE"
California Stylist, Spring 1951
What's not to love with this early 1950's California swim suit. This wildly popular motif has been well documented, but I felt it was right for a re-visit this summer. Perhaps we are ready once more for bold accent patterns on the front of our maillot swim suits, along with a cute version for the man in our life (or not).
This ad boasted a contest to promote the new "Carribean* collection", and was also advertised in "Life" magazine. This ad was seen in "California Stylist", an industry magazine geared towards wholesale buyers looking at California labels to stock their retail stores across the U.S.
Catalina History review: HERE