Why are bathing suits so expensive? They're only little pieces of fabric......................................

Answer 1

Hi,

I design and manufacture swimwear, so I feel that I'm qualified to answer this one.

First and foremost, there is the fit. It must be perfect, which means that a high quality bathing suit goes through many more fittings than a simple T-shirt, for example, to get things just right. A fit model has to be paid each time, multiple samples have to be made, it all costs money and a lot of time and expertise goes into it. I know designers keep their finished patterns under lock and key, because they cost so much to develop.

Then, there's the fabric....make that fabrics and trims. There are extra elastics, findings & labels, involved, that you wouldn't necessarily see on a regular garment. Then, there's also the outer shell, (self fabric,) which is usually something special because it must stretch four ways and be pool and beach safe. It can cost more than the lining, but not always. Today's trend is to have fancier linings on the inside and special treatments and embellishments on the outer shell. All that hand printing, embroidery and beading has to be done by someone and it can be expensive.

The sewing of the garment can also be very complicated. Because of this, there are not many contractors out there that are qualified to do this type of work. It takes at least four, different, sewing machines to complete just one swimsuit. The sewers are specialists and must be very experienced in working with swimwear and stretch fabrics. They now use expensive computerized machines to give the garment just the right amount of stretch and give in just the right places.

Many manufacturers have tried going overseas to try to lower all of these costs, but that has a price too. There are language barriers, customs, huge minimums and an inability to oversee the project from a far.

Lastly, there is the market. Swimwear occupies a very specialized, niche market, which is really not that big. Manufacturers must attend shows and hit the road to sell their wares to a relatively small customer base. The prices must remain high in order to pay for all of the above , and for anyone to make any money at all.

So, if you are comparing a cheapy swimsuit to a more expensive one, remember some of the things that I have mentioned above. A good swimsuit will have a great fit, excellent fabrics, elastics and trims and have high quality workmanship. It all adds up in the end.

~Cindy

Answer 2

Type of fabric and supply and demand. Not a lot of people want to buy a swimsuit in December.

Answer 3

I think it depends on the brand you buy and the store you buy it from. In the long run you are paying out of the a $$ for anything to cover your body even if it does barely cover it.

Answer 4

Sexy sells. It's important to show your assets. Peeps express themselves with their choice of design.

Sex sells Sex sells.

Nothing says it better (except B-day suits) than a bathing suit.

Answer 5

Greedy designers. It's mostly profit. As you've already pointed out, there's not much to them!

Answer 6

It's all about who's name is printed on that little tag.

Answer 7

jeez. i'm wondering why too. probably because of the material. maybe it lasts for a really long time. i'm still trying to find out why. what to do? it's all cause of MONEEEEY!

Answer 8

Prolly cuz it's something you only buy once every few years.

Answer 9

Because of their brand, fabric..and because they make you sexy

Answer 10

THANK YOU!!! i went to khols and got a string bikini and it was $70!!! for some string!!!!!