Lynn Yaeger's 2002 Vogue Essay on Luxury Swimwear
In a June 2002 Vogue article, Lynn Yaeger explored the rise of designer swimwear, noting that luxury brands like Moschino, Cavalli, Galliano, and Gucci had entered the beach market. Bergdorf Goodman saleswoman Necha Treitel described the fitting room ordeal, where women seek 'hand-holding' while trying on expensive suits. Prices reached $1,045 for a Leonard of Paris caftan and $385 for a matching maillot. La Perla CEO Gianluca Flore emphasized the company's European perspective and lingerie expertise, introducing the 'chainkini' with a metal chain bra. Sarah Hailes of Kirna Zabête praised Tomas Maier's swimsuits for their 'perfect cut, perfect fit, perfect colors.' Jean Paul Gaultier's Madison Avenue boutique offered a fluorescent-orange rubber bikini with 3-D blossoms for $430. Designer Ambika Conroy, then 22, crocheted bejeweled bikinis inspired by a Helmut Newton photo, selling one for $1,800 to a Sports Illustrated reader.
Key facts
- Article originally published in Vogue's June 2002 issue.
- Lynn Yaeger wrote 'Swim at Your Own Risk'.
- Necha Treitel worked in Bergdorf Goodman's swimsuit department.
- Leonard of Paris caftan cost $1,045, maillot $385.
- La Perla CEO Gianluca Flore described the 'chainkini'.
- Tomas Maier swimsuits sold for up to $325 at Kirna Zabête.
- Jean Paul Gaultier bikini priced at $430 ($180 bottom, $250 top).
- Ambika Conroy sold a custom bikini for $1,800.
Entities
Artists
- Lynn Yaeger
- Necha Treitel
- Gianluca Flore
- Sarah Hailes
- Tomas Maier
- Ambika Conroy
- Yamila Diaz-Rahi
Institutions
- Vogue
- Bergdorf Goodman
- La Perla
- Kirna Zabête
- Bottega Veneta
- Jean Paul Gaultier
- Sports Illustrated
Locations
- Palm Beach
- Bologna
- Italy
- SoHo
- New York City
- Madison Avenue
- Paris
- India