The Fashion & Design collection of Kew Historical Society includes examples of women’s, men’s, children’s and infants' clothing from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. While the collection includes some examples of international fashion, most items were handmade or purchased in Melbourne. An early example of swimwear from when men were able to legally swim topless in the 1930s. The fashion originated in France in the early 1930s, and slowly caught on in other countries, although was often controversial. In Australia this was less so, and by 1940 it was common attire at the beach. Pair of dark blue, woollen bathing trunks. Front skirted flap. White woollen belt with silver-coloured metal buckle. White label with blue stitched text attached to rear. Label: "Alpha" Size: SMswimwear - men's, alpha swimwear, alpha - menswear designer