9 Most Memorable Swimsuits in TV and Film History, From Jean Harlow to Halle Berry (Photos)

On this day in 1946, the bikini made its debut. To celebrate #NationalBikiniDay, let’s take a look back at some of the most iconic swimsuits–both one- and two-piece–in film and television, from the 1930s to the present.

1930s: Jean Harlow

In the 1930s, before her death at age 26, film actress Jean Harlow was a Hollywood sex symbol. According to Redbook, she was also one of the earliest stars to be photographed in a swimsuit.

1940s: Betty Grable

Betty Grable was celebrated in the 1930s and 40s for her “million dollar legs.” Though this yellow bikini is not as famous as Grable’s famous one-piece and high heels attire, it’s iconic in its own right.

1950s: Esther Williams

1960s: Ursula Andress (first Bond girl)

This Swiss actress catapulted to fame as the first “Bond girl” in the 1962 film, “Dr. No.” The scene where Andress rises out of the ocean in this white two-piece is considered one of the most iconic in film history.

1970s: Pam Grier

1980s: Phoebe Cates from “Fast Times at Ridgemont High”

Phoebe Cates sported this red bikini in her role as Linda Barrett in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High.” The famous pool scene later inspired the music video for the song, “Stacy’s Mom,” by Fountains of Wayne.

1990s: Pamela Anderson in “Baywatch”

Pamela Anderson, who played lifeguard C.J. Parker on “Baywatch,” helped re-popularize one-piece swimsuits in the 1990s. Variations of this red suit are still sold by retailers, such as Forever 21 and Zara.

2000s: Halle Berry in Die Another Day

Another “Bond girl” with an iconic swimsuit, Halle Berry sported this orange bikini and belt/knife holder combo in 2002’s “Die Another Day.”

2010s: Brooklyn Decker