One of the most curious stories in the world of fashion is the origin of the bikini . In 1946, French automotive engineer Louis Réard introduced this revolutionary garment, but its name has a fascinating history.
Réard decided to name it "bikini" after Bikini Atoll , a Pacific island where the United States was conducting nuclear tests at the time. Réard believed that his creation would have a similar explosive impact on society, which was not far from the truth.
The bikini was so controversial in its early days that many professional models refused to wear it, forcing Réard to hire Micheline Bernardini, a cabaret dancer, to model it for his debut.
Although initially considered too daring, the bikini became a cultural icon and one of the most popular items of summer fashion, forever transforming beach style and challenging the social norms of its time.