Take a look at this fascinating article from Holiday magazine (June 1950) titled "1950: A Good Round Figure". Apparently women were about to look more like "natural" women that Summer, instead of "being disguised as little boys or long distance swimmers". American designers were going for a more modest, "feminine" look than their French counterparts, who were veering towards bikinis. Isn't it interesting how fashion trends throughout history influence not only how we adorn ourselves, but also how we view and manipulate our bodies?
Via Retrospace