A Modern Take on Period Costumes

By Louisa Wales, POST Newspaper Community News Editor - Published 26 August 2023

Last year, swimwear designer Gemma Dunthorne from West Leederville recognised a growing need in the swimwear market: bathers that girls and women can comfortably wear while menstruating. Gemma stated, "Over the past two years, we were frequently getting inquiries from customers looking for 'period-proof' swimwear they could buy in-store."

Customers told her they needed the swimwear quickly and couldn't wait for online delivery or didn't feel comfortable buying period swimwear online. Gemma explained, "They were desperate, but the big brands wouldn't sell to small retailers like us, so we decided to make our own."

In October last year, she sought out manufacturers to create her own period-proof swimwear, sold under the name Petaluda Swimwear. Gemma mentioned, "The technology works, we knew that, but we also knew that some of the other products on the market suffered bad reviews due to the fit."

"As swimwear experts, we knew exactly what styles most girls and women preferred. We didn't want them looking and feeling like a nappy," Gemma added. The swimwear includes an extra-absorbent gusset, waterproof layer, and silicone around the legs to stop any potential leaks.

"Period-proof swimwear and underwear is a fantastic choice for those who don't feel comfortable wearing tampons," Gemma said. "It also helps lessen the impact of tampons and pads on landfill."

The new line began selling last month and includes a one-piece suit and five different bikini-bottom styles, ranging from size 6 to 20. Despite not yet advertising the swimwear, Gemma reported that sales were already strong.

"We're getting customers in almost daily who are specifically after the period-proof items," she said. "We also just had our first wholesale order to another swim shop and our first online order from the eastern states."

The swimwear can be ordered online at www.daneechiswimwear.com.au or bought in-store at 106a Cambridge Street, West Leederville.

Caption: Daneechi Swimwear owner Gemma Dunthorne with some of the new “period-proof” swimwear she designed and sells in her West Leederville shop. Photo: Paul McGovern