Material for an underwater costume (thin)

[TamaraSavannah]

I am thinking about a mermaid costume top, the "Lord Nelson" type jacket (buttons, epaulets), (a token taken from my fallen foe, errrrrr, lover).

What kind of material might be used? That would stand up to a chlorinated pool? That won't become so water logged so it doesn't become a swimming hazard?

Thoughts? Suggestions?

[M3 Mitch]

Offhand I would think maybe a polyester fabric? Probably you want to avoid cotton.

What are swim suits generally made from?

[lkb0714]

This is not going to work well. Any fabric that is not going to hold water, is not going to have the body or stiffness necessary for such a jacket. Neoprene is one of the few materials that would hold its shape in that environment but sewing it is a nightmare. You are going to want to rethink this.

[5-all]

You could attach the epaulets, buttons and medals to a rash guard.