Learning Conversation panel
On Swimwear Design: Politics, Gender, History
Join Fashion Historian and Curator Amber Butchart, swimwear designer Ayesha Mahomed, Assistant Curator Tiya Dahyabhai, and curator Shaun Cole in a conversation exploring the semiotics of swimwear and its history of subversion, rebellion and innovation.
Priority booking for members.
The history of the swimsuit is one of design revolution, feminism, subversive bodies, and noncompliance like no other. In the 1920s, beach holidays exploded in popularity, and swimwear began to be marketed for swimming rather than the Victorian era’s preference for ‘bathing’. Cultural negotiations of body concealment and gender codes have manifested across the decades through this unique garment, which is celebrated as part of our exhibition Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style.
Join this conversation to dive into the fascinating social universe of the swimsuit, from the Victorian 'Swimside Walking Dresses' to the Mankini, the burkini, and everything in between.
This event welcomes fashion students and enthusiasts, swimming culture aficionados and everyone interested in design history, culture and gender.
Speakers
Amber is a curator, writer and broadcaster who specialises in the cultural and political history of textiles, dress and design. She researches and presents documentaries for television and radio, including the BBC Four series 'A Stitch in Time' and the BBC Two reality show 'The Great British Sewing Bee'. Her books include 'The Fashion of Film', 'Nautical Chic', and 'A History of British Fashion Illustration'. She is the guest curator of 'Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style’.
Ayesha co-founded the luxury swimwear brand Lanuuk in 2018. She focuses on the brand’s strategy, sales, marketing, and daily operations. Her passion for excellence and customer-centric approach have driven Lanuuk’s growth, making it a trusted choice for women seeking modest swimwear that blends elegance with functionality. With sharp business acumen and creative vision, Ayesha shapes Lanuuk as a leader in swimwear, empowering women globally to embrace confidence, comfort, and individuality.
Shaun is a writer, lecturer and curator specialising in sexuality, gender, fashion and style. He is Associate Professor in Fashion at Winchester School of Art, University of Southampton. His publications include ‘Don We Now Our Gay Apparel: Gay Men’s Dress in the Twentieth Century' (2000), 'The Story of Men's Underwear' (2010), 'Dandy Style: 250 Years of British Men’s Fashion' and 'Gay Men’s Style: Fashion, Dress and Sexuality in the 21st Century' (2023).
Tiya is a curator and material researcher focused on contemporary craft and design, with a special interest in textile processes. As Assistant Curator at the Design Museum, she has worked on several exhibitions including 'Objects of Desire', 'The Offbeat Sari' and 'Barbie®: The Exhibition'. She is a committed advocate for equity within the museum sector and holds the positions of Museums Advisor for South Asian Heritage Month, and Equity Advisory Council member for Crafts Council.
Book online
Adult: £12
Concession: £11
Members*: £10
Carer: Free
*Please note that this benefit applies only to the cardholding Member’s ticket and not to those of additional guests.
• Pre-booking is required
• Hearing Loop is available
• Assistance dogs are welcome
• If you require BSL interpretation, please book your ticket up to four weeks before the event date and indicate your request in the booking form
Tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. Visit our terms & conditions page for further information.
Visit this page for further Access information.
Related exhibition
Background image: Swimsuits by Rebirth Garments. Photo by Colectivo Multipolar. Modelled by Sky Cubacub and Nina Litoff. © Sky Cubacub | Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style exhibition.
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