History
Nudist pageants were popular in the 1950’s and 1960’s during the so-called golden age of nudism in America. It was not uncommon for nudist clubs to host pageants. The “royalty” suntan, beauty pageants were not open the general public. The pageants at most nudist camps included both men and women. Typically men and women were chosen to be crowned camp king and queen, Mr and Mrs SunTan. Many pageant included as well as junior king and queen (Miss and Master Suntan) or whole families. 1Nudist Pageant and Miss Nude World Pageants
Pageants were organized by individual clubs and the American Sunbathing Association or regional chapters. These pageants were supposed to illustrate the natural beauty of the nude (suntanned) body. 2 Nudist Pageant and Miss Nude World Pageants
Pageants change
Over time they focused almost exclusively on women. This practice mirrored mainstream society.
This practice ended for the most part in the eighties except for a few highly sexualized non naturist events. 3 Nudist Pageant and Miss Nude World Pageants
Pageant photography
The pageants and it’s winners were often photographed by nudist photographers for publication in nudist magazines. Non nudist photographers like noted photographer Diane Arbus also captured the pageant practice for historical posterity. 4 Family Beauty Contest at a Nudist Camp, PA, 1965
Also see
References
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