The paradox of the bikini’s history reached its peak not in movies or on beaches, but in professional sports.

After going from being banned - punishable by fines or even jail time - the bikini pulled off an unthinkable maneuver in the late 20th century: it was officially mandated as required wear!

At the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, beach volleyball debuted as an official Olympic sport. The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) didn't just permit the bikini; it enshrined it in strict regulations:

Athletes' bottoms had to be "form-fitting and high-cut at the hips," with a side width of no more than 7 centimeters.

Athletes who tried to step onto the court in more modest clothing or shorts risked fines or disqualification! In other words, in the span of 50 years, the world went from fining women for wearing a bikini to fining them for refusing to wear one.

Officially, the federation cited practicality (preventing sand from getting trapped under clothing) and the heat, but everyone understood the real reason: TV ratings for beach volleyball had skyrocketed.

It wasn't until 2012- out of respect for the cultural and religious traditions of various nations - that athletes were finally permitted to compete in shorts and sleeved tops.

Such is the cycle of the bikini: first, you’re barred from the beach for wearing one, and later, you’re barred from the Olympics if you don't!