- Categories:
- Arts & Entertainment
- Tags:
- HistoricalSummer
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every July 5
- Holiday emoji:
- đź‘™
National Bikini Day dives into summer fun every July 5. This day celebrates the revolutionary two-piece swimsuit, first introduced in 1946 and named after Bikini Atoll. Embrace the spirit of summer by hitting the beach, lounging poolside, or finding your perfect swimwear.
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National Bikini Day timeline
At the Cannes Film Festival, Brigitte Bardot is photographed wearing a bikini on every beach in the south of France.
According to one of the top Los Angeles PR Firms, Brian Hyland's song "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini" inspires a bikini buying spree
The thong bikini first appears in Brazil
The Olympic Committee decrees the bikini the official uniform for women’s beach volleyball
National Bikini Day FAQs
When is National Bikini Day?
National Bikini Day 2026 falls on Sunday, July 5, making it a perfect weekend opportunity to enjoy the sun and water. It’s a day to celebrate the iconic two-piece swimsuit.
Who invented the bikini?
The modern bikini was invented by French designer Louis RĂ©ard, who unveiled his groundbreaking two-piece swimsuit on July 5, 1946. He named it after Bikini Atoll, where atomic bomb tests were taking place, anticipating its ‘explosive’ impact.
How popular is the bikini today?
The bikini remains incredibly popular worldwide, with the global swimwear market valued at approximately $21.3 billion in 2025 and expected to grow. It is a dominant style in beachwear and a symbol of summer.
Why is it called a bikini?
The bikini was named by its inventor, Louis RĂ©ard, after Bikini Atoll in the Pacific Ocean. This was where the United States conducted nuclear weapons tests in July 1946, and RĂ©ard hoped his design would have a similar ‘explosive’ and groundbreaking impact on fashion.
National Bikini Day Activities
Buy a new bikini
Treat yourself—you can never have too many bikinis. But don’t just get the same old one: try a new pattern or color. Summer is just getting started, and so is your shopping spree.
Throw a bikini pool party
Themed parties are so much fun. Grab some bikini-themed decorations at your local party supply store and invite your friends over for some pool playtime. Don’t forget the sunscreen!
Put on your favorite one-piece
Bikinis are fun, but even we have to admit that they’re not for everyone. If the bikini isn’t your thing, that’s okay. You can still join the fun! Put on your favorite one-piece and join the pool party.Â
Why We Love National Bikini Day
You can show off your fashion sense
Fashion is a great way to express ourselves—the bikini is just another outlet. They come in all different colors, shades, and styles. You can go nineties with a halter bikini, rock a tankini, or even try on a skirtkini. You can mix and match bottoms and tops, stripes, and colors. So what’s your bikini style?
It gives you a reason to head to the beach
No one ever needs a reason to escape to the beach, but it’s always nice to have an excuse. If anyone asks you why you’re not at work, it’s because today is National Bikini Day!
They go with the coolest accessories
Accessories can make or break a look. With the right amount of bling, the perfect coverup, and some stylish shades, you can turn your bikini into a bona-fide summer look! Is that a celebrity, or is it just you rocking the beach?
