An expert rock climber, skier and fitness enthusiast, Bonnie Prudden was a physical fitness pioneer and early advocate of the benefits of exercise for almost everyone. Among her many fitness-related endeavors, Prudden was a columnist and advisor for Sports Illustrated. In 1957 she appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated in a full-length leotard of her own design, to promote her launch of a line of fitness fashions (see last photo). That line of fitness wear is the origin of this particular circa 1950s black nylon jersey knit 2-piece outfit, deadstock and unworn with its original tags. A special piece of American sportswear history! The set features a cropped top with short sleeves and round neckline, and high-waisted capri leggings. Both pieces are made of very stretchy, black nylon jersey knit fabric. The top has elastic at the ribcage/hem and the capri pant has an elastic waist. Both are unlined. Labeled a vintage size large, they will stretch to fit approximately a modern small to medium (see measurements for details). Although unworn, the set does have one minor issue: a small faded mark and narrow faded fold line on the left leg of the pant from its long storage. This is unlikely to be as noticeable when worn as it is in my lightened close-up photo. This never worn, late 1950s or early 1960s 2-piece set by Bonnie Prudden is in very good condition, with no other issues to note. It would be a nice find for a vintage sportswear historian or collector!
SIZE: approximately modern S to M
TOP
Bust: 29” flat/unstretched, stretching up to 41”
Ribcage/hem: 18” flat/unstretched, stretching up to 32”
Length: 10” unstretched, from shoulder to hem
Underarm to hem: 3.5” unstretched, or approx. 5-6” when stretched
Sleeve: 4.5” long, with opening of 10” flat, stretching up to 15”
Shoulder to shoulder: 13.5” flat, stretching up to 17”
PANT
Waist: 20” flat/unstretched, stretching up to 32” Hip: 30” flat/unstretched, stretching up to 42”
Waist to hem length: 29” unstretched, up to approx. 33”
Inseam length: 18” unstretched, up to approx. 22”
Rise: 13” front and back, when slightly stretched
LABEL: Fitness Fashions by Bonnie Prudden
