For a vintage pro, a swimsuit from the ’60s is worth snapping up in a second — if it’s in good condition. That’s where things get tough. Consider all the pool chemicals, salt water, and rough wear a normal swimsuit endures … then age it 50 years. So it’s no surprise that many older swimsuits contain rot. (Easley recommends stretching and pulling the fabric of a vintage swimsuit. If it makes any noise, it means it’s a goner.)

Also, vintage swimsuits lack spandex — not a problem for shorts, but necessary for bikinis — so there’s very little give built into the actual structure. And then, there’s the whole question of fit. Does it hug in all the right places? Will it really keep your boobs covered when a rough wave hits? It’s iffy at best.

We suggest buying a swimsuit reproduction from an online retailor like My Baby Jo. They offer a bunch of high quality ’50s and ’60s style bathing suits — and have been editor tested and approved.