1930s Lace Up Allen-A Lifeguard Swim Suit

Now on eBay! LINK

This vintage cotton gabardine swimsuit was made in the 1930s by Allen-A Life Guard.  I’ve attached an ad from 1938 advertising this model.  As opposed to the usual elastic or wool construction, these lace up at the hip.  They have a round coin pocket.  There is some wear and light fading, but these have made it through the past 70+ years remarkably well.

Marked size: 30
Waist minimum size (side to side): 14″ (doubled =28″)
Waist maximum size (side to side): 14-3/4″ (doubled = 29-1/2″)
Rise: 11.5″
Side: 6.5″

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1940s Imperial Stetson

I found this 7-3/8 Imperial Stetson at an antique store in Maryland. It wasn’t marked, but due to the condition of the sweatband, the owner gave it to me for $5. It’s mid 1940s, and has the early style “Stars” Stetson crest. The brim is wide, the crown is tall and the ribbon is bold. It has a huge overwelt.

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