Bikinis first appeared in Roman mosaics , depicted on women playing sports . The bikini was a bathing suit that covered the body and allowed for freedom of movement ( like swimming ) while still being modest enough to be worn by both men and women. In 2009 , Americans spent $ 4.3 billion -- roughly $ 400 million more than the GDP of Barbados -- on swimwear alone . Brian Hyland 's 1960 hit single was ode to `` Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini ''
Bikinis first appeared in Roman mosaics , depicted on women playing sports . The bikini was a bathing suit that covered the body and allowed for freedom of movement ( like swimming ) while still being modest enough to be worn by both men and women. Brian Hyland 's 1960 hit single was ode to `` Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini ''