Skin-tight garment

Commercial stretch fabrics ('elastomerics') such as spandex or elastane (widely branded as 'Lycra') came onto the market in 1962, and revolutionized many areas of the clothing industry.

In the early 20th century, use of leotards was mainly confined to circus and acrobatic shows, but were also worn by professional dancers, such as the showgirls of Broadway.

In early years the one-piece swimsuit would have a narrow skirt slip or micro-shorts, for modesty considerations, but these were beginning to disappear in the 1940s.

Although these cover the entire torso, arms and legs, their function is not modesty, but reducing friction through the water for professional swimmers.

In 1861, American actress Adah Isaacs Menken controversially wore a flesh coloured bodystocking on stage, to preserve her modesty and stay within the obscenity laws, while giving the illusion of nudity.

These garments also help to minimize wind and friction drag, making them ideal for activities such as swimming,[5] cycling, skating,[6] skiing, and running.

Moreover, they offer protection from cuts, stings, and abrasions, as well as safeguarding against the harmful effects of UV radiation from the sun.

For individuals with a rubber or spandex fetish, these garments hold a strong sexual appeal, which may be attributed to the sensation they create on the skin, making it feel more sensitive, while also providing a sense of being naked yet clothed.

[11] In a more practical application, skin-tight spacesuits serve a crucial purpose for astronauts by helping to maintain the shape of their spines.

The equal pressure exerted by the suit on the skin's surface provides support to the muscles, which is essential for astronauts who spend extended periods in space.