When it comes to iconic swimsuit fashion, we need to discuss 50s sci-fi horror, CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON. Considered one of the great Universal Monster movies, CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON has become a cult classic that is beloved by fans for its legendary monster, suspenseful plot, and illustrious swimsuit, worn by the film’s lead actress, Julie Adams (billed as Julia Adams). Adams’s scientist character, Kay Lawrence, wears the white one-piece suit as she takes a dip in the refreshing waters of the Black Lagoon in one of the film’s hallmark scenes. The swimsuit’s inventive design has become both an instantly recognizable classic and a quintessential part of CREATURE’s legacy.
A white swimsuit and a Devonian creature
Golden Age Hollywood fashion designers played a fundamental and often overlooked role in the film studio system. They consulted on scripts and collaborated with directors to create stunning costumes that helped bring stories to life on the big screen. Rosemary Odell, who served as the in-house designer for Universal Studios from 1945 to 1967, was tasked with designing a swimsuit that was both modest and possessed a special X factor. Due to features such as the high-cut leg design and the absence of a modesty skirt, the otherwise full-coverage bathing suit was considered risqué at the time.
During the breathtaking sequence in question, Kay removes her white cotton terry robe, revealing the famous swimsuit, and cools herself down by swimming in the Black Lagoon as the fascinated Gill-man stalks her from beneath the surface (one particular camera angle recalls the opening sequence of JAWS). We, the audience, see the suit in action as the lithe Kay freestyles and backstrokes in the water as the enthralled merman swims below, watching and maybe even swooning. The light hue of the cone bra suit, combined with stunning underwater photography and filtered lighting, creates a captivating and very sensual image.
Under a certain glint in the water, the swimsuit appears translucent.
Mention CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON, and the images that immediately come to mind are that gorgeous white swimsuit and the underwater dance between Beauty and the Beast. Kay’s suit is an enduring emblem from classic horror films, inspiring DIY fashion tutorials and replicas over the years; it possesses a timeless star power that positions it as a beloved symbol alongside the Creature itself.
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