Some movies are Academy Award-worthy while others deserve a Razzie title—nonetheless, many pictures produced some of the most unforgettable swimsuit moments that have aged only better through time. And yes, actresses have been giving us major inspirations since these clothes became big in the '50s.
Interestingly, not all can rock their swimsuits quite as well as these sizzling celebrities. From bikinis to one-piece swimming attire, these actresses rocked their legendary summer 'fits and made the movies more memorable for film enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
Gwyneth Paltrow - The Talented Mr. Ripley, 1999
Goop founder Gwyneth Paltrow may be wearing a retro-designed pair but this can work even to this day. High-waisted bottoms are flattering to most body shapes so we're not surprised that a lot of people still wear sets like this.
"The Talented Mr. Ripley" was commercially and critically successful, earning awards from Critics' Choice and BAFTA. The thriller, which also received multiple Academy nominations, received $128 million in domestic sales. Paltrow's co-star, Jude Law, was nervous about starring in the movie with his Oscar-nominated colleagues but delivered nonetheless.
Sally Field - Gidget, 1965
Think pink! Actress Sally Field looked sweet with her wholesome baby pink ensemble partnered with her pigtails on the project "Gidget." As an 18-year-old who graced the set, her tweetums role became memorable.
Plus, "Gidget" was one of the first colored programs on ABC so Field's inclusion in the sitcom was an important addition to her acting portfolio. Since then, she has also explored other genres and was seen in "Mrs. Doubtfire," "The Flying Nun," "Forrest Gump," and "Steel Magnolias."
Raquel Welch - Bedazzled, 1967
Prior to Elizabeth Hurley's "Bedazzled," a comedy of the same title was shown in the '60s. Actress Raquel Welch starred as Lust, one of the seven deadly sins, hence her seductive white textured bikini with attached beads on the bottom.
During that decade, the international scene grew fond of Welch, primarily for her skin-baring get-ups and costumes in movies. However, she knew deep inside that this wasn't her and admitted that there were times when she was taken advantage of, acknowledging that this was her ticket to success.
Bo Derek - 10, 1979
The iconic 1979 movie "10" starred Bo Derek as Jenny Hanley. It's hard to forget this scene of the actress wearing this golden one piece as she walked on the beach because she looked effortlessly fit. Plus, she became an image of the ultimate Hollywood crush.
When asked if she would ever consider appearing in a sequel, the actress explained that even though she was fine with it, she wouldn't don a stringy swimsuit anymore. More than her outfit, Derek's cornrow hairstyle also became so stylish that it is copied even to this day.
Pam Grier - Coffy, 1973
Described as the first female action star, Pam Grier broke barriers when she starred in a series of action-packed movies in the '70s. However, on top of this persona, she also became a bombshell after donning this white bikini pair in the picture "Coffy."
This was Grier's first leading part but she certainly made a mark as the nurse who became a vigilante. The 1973 movie was such a massive hit that it earned $4 million against a $500K budget.
Trina Parks - Diamonds Are Forever, 1971
One of the antagonists in the Bond movie "Diamonds Are Forever" is Thumper, played by Trina Parks. She donned this bright yellow bikini and paired this with hoop earrings, an armband, and a waist string.
The Sean Connery-starrer was a box office hit, garnering over $116 million at the box office against a budget of $7.2 million. This was perhaps Parks' biggest acting credit to her name although she is also equally known as a choreographer and dancer.
Gloria Hendry - Live and Let Die, 1973
The James Bond movie "Live and Let Die," which was released in 1973, featured Gloria Hendry as Rosie Carver, one of 007's love interests. With an athletic build, she totally rocked this colorful bikini as she fought as a CIA agent.
Prior to landing this role, Hendry was a Bunny model for the Playboy Club, entering the entertainment industry in her first movie "For The Love of Ivy," which hit the big screen in 1968. Furthermore, she was cast in "Black Caesar" and "Black Belt Jones."
Brooke Shields - The Blue Lagoon, 1980
Brooke Shields has a lot of impressive credits to her name, but it is arguably her role in "The Blue Lagoon" that will be forever attached to her legacy. As a child star who started her career when she was just a baby, she was destined for stardom.
In "The Blue Lagoon," Shields almost bared it all, which was expected because she and her film partner were on an island where they fell in love. The white cloth tied to her waist may not qualify as a swimsuit, but it is nonetheless iconic.
Ludivine Sagnier – Swimming Pool, 2003
What do we expect in a movie titled "Swimming Pool"? Of course, there would be swimsuit scenes such as this one featuring Ludivine Sagnier, who looked sizzling in this black-and-white chevron bikini. The thriller, helmed by François Ozon, bagged the European Film Award for Best Actress.
The movie revolves around novelist Sarah Morton who was sent to a French town to unwind. Sagnier starred as the disturbed Julie, who admitted to killing a man by the swimming pool, hence the title.
Elizabeth Hurley – Bedazzled, 2000
Just like the 2000 title of this romantic comedy movie, Elizabeth Hurley stunned in this bedazzled red bikini that will forever remain etched in her fans' minds. She portrayed the role of the sultry Devil opposite Brendan Fraser, who was desperate enough to trade his soul for seven wishes to help him win his co-worker's heart.
As a long-time actress, Hurley didn't disappoint in this project, offering another side of herself when she donned revealing but classy outfits, earning praises from critics.
Elizabeth Taylor – Suddenly, Last Summer, 1960
The swimsuits ages ago hit differently because they ooze with sophistication despite leaving too little to the imagination. Elizabeth Taylor particularly exuded this glamor in this shot taken in the 1960 movie "Suddenly, Last Summer."
This picture remains unforgettable because it was controversial at the time. Even the poster marketing the movie bore Taylor's iconic bikini shot. In fact, it created such a fuss that it almost got the movie banned primarily because her outfit got wet after she came out of the water.
Pamela Anderson - Baywatch, '90s
We can't talk about iconic swimsuits without the ever-ravishing Pamela Anderson, who rose to fame after starring as CJ Parker in the '90s show "Baywatch." Because of this project, she became synonymous with the red swimsuit that many fans would remember. Fun fact: the blonde bombshell admitted in 2019 that the piece could still fit her.
According to The New York Times, the red "Baywatch" swimsuits were inspired by the real lifeguard uniforms in the sunny Southern California beaches; hence, they were functional.
Ursula Andress – Dr. No, 1962
There have been many Bond girls in the history of the franchise but one of the most unforgettable would inarguably be Ursula Andress, who starred as Honey Ryder in the 1962 movie "Dr. No." She set the bar high for other women who played parts in the succeeding films.
The Swiss-German star undoubtedly popularized the two-piece white bikini but what made her scene memorable was how she looked radical chic in her halter top swimsuit with a knife in it.
Kate Bosworth – Blue Crush, 2002
As a movie with a beach setting, "Blue Crush" is filled with swimsuit moments but one of the most unforgettable was that of Kate Bosworth. The unmatched and unassuming set seen in this picture may not be as striking as the others on this list but they fit the young actress quite nicely in the movie.
According to costume designer Susan Matheson, the cast wore swimsuits that matched their characters' personalities. Still, the pieces were affordable and can be easily copied.
Halle Berry – Die Another Day, 2002
While a lot of fans may remember Halle Berry for being Catwoman, many viewers would also recall her for being spy Jinx Johnson in the 2002 movie "Die Another Day." Yes, she was once a Bond girl who became iconic for rocking an orange bikini that accentuated her curves in all the right places.
While the look seems effortless, there was actually a lot of thought behind it. In a Vogue interview, Berry said she tried on so many belts and bathing suits because they knew that they may become iconic.
Virginie Ledoyen – The Beach, 2000
Again from the title, we can tell that the 2000 movie "The Beach" has a lot of interesting swimsuit scenes. Virginie Fernández, commonly known as Virginie Ledoyen, starred as Francoise, alongside Leonardo DiCaprio's Richard and Tilda Swinton's Sal. Interestingly, it was a commercial and critical flop during its release.
This blue ensemble may be simple but this remains unforgettable because of how Ledoyen carried it. What's more, "The Beach" became DiCaprio's first movie after the 1997 tragedy film "Titanic," which was a box-office hit.
Sue Lyon - Lolita, 1962
While Sue Lyon, American actress and model, passed away in 2019, die-hard fans couldn't forget her portrayal of the lead role in the 1962 movie "Lolita." The highly controversial movie saw the star wearing seductive outfits and swimsuits, such as this wildly printed orange pair. It was said that she bested over 800 girls for the part.
And while Lyon's performance was laudable, she was just 14 when she played Lolita, earning her a Golden Globe Award, becoming one of the youngest stars to have earned this.
Angelina Jolie - Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, 2001
Humanitarian and actress Angelina Jolie is a well-respected thespian and inspirational speaker for her work with UNHCR. And while she has been hailed for her portrayals in "Maleficent" and "Eternals," she also previously stirred controversy for her role in "Girl, Interrupted."
But who would ever forget her rebel titular character in the 2001 movie "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider," which was based on a video game? This may not be the sultriest look on this list, the black set made Jolie seem like a bad chick.
Jessica Alba - Into The Blue, 2005
The 2005 movie "Into The Blue" saw Jessica Alba and Paul Walker starring as Sam and Jared in the Bahamas. As such, pretty much most of her screen time was done in a skimpy striped bikini, and even though this cemented her status as a celebrity to watch out for.
The breakout role, however, wasn't as memorable for Alba because she didn't have the fondest memories on the set. She particularly didn't like that she was filmed in her string bikini because she hated that she had to show a lot of skin.
Annette Funicello - Beach Party, 1963
The late actress Annette Funicello started her career as a child star, joining the cast of "Mickey Mouse Club" and singing songs like "Pineapple Princess." While she was a promising young star, her big break came when she was cast as a young and carefree surfer alongside Frankie Avalon in the '60s movie "Beach Party."
The film is catered toward teens but because it is about young ones having the times of their life under the sun, it sparked controversy because of how Funicello, a Disney baby, dressed up.
Carrie Fisher - Star Wars, 1977
The sci-fi "Star Wars" franchise may not be about the beach but one particular scene stunned viewers: Carrie Fisher's Princess Leia wearing a gold bikini that showed too much skin. It became one of the most watched moments from the movie but one that the actress wasn't a fan of.
In an NPR interview, Fisher noted that she felt uncomfortable wearing the set because it was metal. While she was instructed not to have any marks on her skin, her outfit was form-fitting and she had to sit very straight and still.
Sharon Tate - Don’t Make Waves, 1967
The 1967 movie "Don't Make Waves" is about Tony Curtis' character Carlo being immersed in Southern California life, entangling himself to two women, including Sharon Tate's role of Malibu. As can be expected, the cast were always in their trunks and swimsuits, which created a barrage of memorable scenes from the movie.
Tate was particularly unforgettable in her neon green swimming top paired with pink trousers. But come to think of it, wouldn't it be difficult to swim in baggy pants?
Farrah Fawcett - Sunburn, 1979
When we think of Farrah Fawcett, we immediately think about her role in the show "Charlie's Angels" and her bouncy hair that is full of life. However, she may also be as easily recognizable as a model named Ellie from the 1979 movie "Sunburn."
This movie, based on the book "The Bind," created some of the most iconic swimsuit scenes where Fawcett donned this one piece. What was memorable even so was the team's decision to open her front zipper. The sleeves also seemed ripped out!
Jacqueline Bisset - The Sweet Ride, 1968
With undeniable beauty, Jacqueline Bisset initially snatched roles because of her appearance but it didn't take long before she proved that she can bring her talents to the table, too. In the case of "The Sweet Ride," she showed her toned physique when she sported matching bikinis.
These days, we may not see Bisset frolicking under the sun but continues to star in films. Fans may have seen her in the 2022 movie "Loren & Rose" and the 2018 film "Birds of Paradise."
Joan Blackman - Blue Hawaii, 1961
We can't blame the late King of Rock and Roll Elvis Presley for falling head over heels for Joan Blackman, his co-star in "Blue Hawaii." Her beauty and elegance obviously had him smitten even when he was in a relationship with Priscilla.
The Mirror reported that the "Can't Help Falling In Love" hitmaker even wanted to make Blackman his wife. Plus, it is safe to say that Presley had his eyes on his leading lady, including the time she donned this matching patterned swimsuit.
Rachel McAdams - The Notebook, 2004
While many actresses donned skimpy bikinis for movies, Rachel McAdams looked fresh in her gingham red swimsuit for the romantic movie "The Notebook." To complement her outfit, she added a matching headpiece.
The Canadian actress donned a somewhat vintage-looking set but it still worked for her frame. Many fans are familiar with this scene; after all, the movie based on Nicholas Sparks' book earned at least $116 million at the box office and $13 million during its opening weekend.
Esther Williams - Easy to Love, 1953
Remember "Million Dollar Mermaid"? Esther Williams starred in this film, which was about the life of aquatic superstar Annette Kellerman. As a competitive swimmer herself, Williams was the right choice for the job but the stint caused her to break her neck and halt filming.
Still, Williams landed many roles after. She also starred in "Easy To Love," where she wore this white retro swimsuit. It may be a familiar scene because she loved the water and was always in swimwear.
Angela Bassett - How Stella Got Her Groove Back, 1998
How do we know that one-color swimsuits are great? We just take a look at this hot pink ensemble that Angela Bassett effortlessly carried in her 1998 romantic movie "How Stella Got Her Groove Back," which earned her awards for her portrayal of the titular character.
Well, if it weren't for Bassett's toned physique, the set wouldn't have been iconic. The story revolves around a stockbroker Stella, who falls in love with a man 20 years her junior during a getaway.
Denise Richards - Wild Things, 1998
According to Wonderwall, the 1998 picture "Wild Things" marked the second film of Denise Richards. The movie lived true to its name because it was filled with rowdy and risque moments, including when she wore varying swimsuits and bikinis.
Although it seems simple, Richards' coming out of the water was probably the most replayed scene because of how see-through the outfit seemed to be. Still, she cemented a solid career following this steamy film, starring "Love Actually," "Valentine," and "The World Is Not Enough."
Sophia Loren - Madame Sans Gene, 1961
At this age when petite is considered the ultimate beauty standard, pictures like this tell us that women of all shapes and sizes are gorgeous. Evergreen actress Sophia Loren tells us how it is done with this simple yet striking one-piece that she wore on "Madame Sans Gene."
Loren played Catherine Hubscher, Napoleon I's laundress. But her appearance is only one facade because she is named one of the biggest stars of Classical Hollywood cinema by the American Film Institute.
Deborah Kerr - From Here to Eternity, 1953
It is difficult to fathom that people didn't think British actress Deborah Kerr had any acting potential prior to her movie "From Here to Eternity." It was after she donned this halter swimsuit that she thought that execs began to notice her skills.
Well, she did prove her critics wrong because she received Academy and Golden Globe nominations during her career. According to WonderWall, officials asked that the swimsuit would have a skirt so that Kerr wouldn't look too provocative onscreen.
Jane Russell - The French Line, 1953
Actress Jane Russell was known for her figure, which she often displayed through varying roles, including in "The French Line." It's hard to imagine another star who can pull off this swimsuit with intricate design and cutouts, and matching gloves, than this '40s celebrity.
Still, Russell's costume created a buzz in the production industry. According to a blog on Medium, PCA particularly had concerns over her attire, explaining that they wouldn't allow bikini type swimsuits. Despite the rules and obstacles, it launched to an over excited crowd.
Brigitte Bardot - Girl In The Bikini, 1958
From the title itself, we can tell that viewers will see bikinis here and there. French actress Brigitte Bardot was only 17 when she landed the lead role in "The Girl In The Bikini" ("Manina, la fille sans voiles" in French). The movie stirred controversy because it was one of the first films to have featured a bikini scene.
Unfortunately, Bardot is no longer active on the busy scene and has since shifted her focus to animal rights activism.
Marilyn Monroe - How to Marry a Millionaire, 1953
The movie "How to Marry a Millionaire" talks about three girls desperate to find a millionaire and their efforts to scour the city's elite. Blonde bombshell Marilyn Monroe played Pola Debevoise and in one scene, she sported this red form-fitting tube one-piece that hugged her body in all the right places.
The glittering V bustline and sparkly flower feature also added to her sultry charm. This set also came with a hot red vest that she took off in a previous sequence.
Raquel Welch - One Million Years B.C., 1966
Raquel Welch's fur swimsuit in "One Million Years B.C." will not probably sit well with animal rights activists today but back then, everyone only appreciated the actress' beauty and appearance in the movie.
Welch barely had lines in the movie but she became one of the most talked-about stars, primarily due to scenes like this. In an interview, she revealed that she had three caveman bikinis during production. The costume designer stuck doeskin on her body and freehandedly cut the hems with scissors.
Izabella Scorupco - GoldenEye, 1995
The James Bond movies always involved lots of guns and good-looking women. In the 1995 film "GoldenEye," it was Swedish-Polish actress Izabella Scorupco's turn to star as Natalya Simonova. With her striking beauty, we weren't surprised that she managed to make it big across the pond.
Scorupco has since been involved in philanthropic efforts, even donating this white bikini set plus the sarong, all made by costume designer Lindy Hemming, to the Childhood Diabetes Foundation, according to the 007museum.com.
Salma Hayek - From Dusk to Dawn, 1996
Many fans are familiar with "Frida" and "Grown Ups" but who could forget about
"From Dusk Till Dawn?" After all, Salma Hayek made waves in this burgundy set with a matching intricate headdress and a huge snake.
Playing Santanico Pandemonium marked one of her first movie appearances but it didn't prove to be her last. Hayek became known for her voluptuous figure, which she managed to keep to this day. While she seemed comfortable dancing with the reptile, she was so terrified of it behind the scenes!
Demi Moore - Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle, 2003
Who would have thought that Demi Moore was already in her 40s when she shot this movie in the '00s? It is hard to believe that she returned onscreen as the villain in the 2003 movie "Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle" because of how angelic she looked when she rocked this tiny bikini.
It somehow revived Moore's career and made it seem that it was the '80s all over again. Interestingly, this "Charlie's Angels" film amassed $259 million at the box office.
Phoebe Cates - Fast Times at Ridgemont High, 1982
The quintessential high school movie "Fast Times At Ridgemont High" had teen boys in awe of the scene of Phoebe Cates coming out of the water in a red bikini. While there were risque moments, the actress revealed that she was fine with them and felt comfortable doing them.
In fact, Cates had no regrets years later and would fondly talk about production. The scene became so iconic that "Friends" star Jennifer Aniston recreated the scene, albeit with a tank top underneath, in 2020.