For Gernreich, trained as a dancer, such designs arose not just from a desire for shock and publicity, but a deep-founded belief in the liberatory power of clothing. Among his other innovations were ...

Peggy Moffitt, the actor and model who became a 1960s mod icon wearing designer Rudi Gernreich's famous topless bathing suit ...

promoting the swimwear with help from Ms. Moffitt, who was photographed for publications including Life magazine and Women’s Wear Daily. According to “The Rudi Gernreich Book” (1991), a ...