Behind the Scenes: Our Retro Swimwear Photoshoot at Wiveliscombe Pool
There's something magical about combining vintage-inspired swimwear, sunshine, and a beautiful outdoor pool. That's exactly what we found during our recent photoshoot at Wiveliscombe Pool in Somerset.
With its timeless charm and classic lido feel, Wiveliscombe Pool was the perfect location to showcase our newest collection of retro swimwear, high-waisted bikinis, and vintage-style swimsuits. Every photograph captures what Bettylicious Retro is all about—confidence, femininity, and celebrating women of every shape and size.
Why Wiveliscombe Pool Was the Perfect Choice
When choosing a location, I wanted somewhere that reflected the nostalgia behind the brand. Wiveliscombe Pool has an effortless vintage feel that instantly transports you to the golden age of seaside glamour.
The crystal-blue water, relaxed atmosphere, and beautiful Somerset surroundings created the ideal backdrop for our latest campaign, allowing every swimsuit to shine while staying true to the Bettylicious Retro aesthetic. They kindly gave me permission to do the shoot whilst the pool was closed.
Photo from Wivey Pool Website.
Opening nearly 100 years ago on the 4th August 1927, WiveyPool is one of the oldest pools in Somerset! 200 people assembled on the opening day. The concreted pool with spring diving boards initially cost £778 to build, with the then 130 ticket holders charged a guinea for their yearly membership, approximately £59 in today’s money.
In those days swimming wasn’t allowed on a Sunday morning or when an evening church service was in progress, and the cold-water pool pulled water from the reservoirs at Withycombe and Coate meaning it often became green and murky!
All these years on WiveyPool is almost unrecognisable, with heated water, boilers, pumps, filters and dosing systems, costing approximately £60,000 to run. With a team of around 12 volunteers and one paid member of staff going up to 20 when we’re open, the pool is now a thriving structured organisation, with many more members of the local community volunteering their time; helping with everything from book keeping to cleaning the changing rooms!
More Than Just a Photoshoot
This shoot meant so much more than creating beautiful images.
Running an independent fashion brand takes passion, determination, and plenty of resilience. Every collection represents months of planning, designing, and refining to create pieces that women genuinely love wearing.
Standing beside the pool and seeing the collection come to life reminded me why I started Bettylicious Retro—to give women swimwear that makes them feel glamorous, confident, and completely themselves. We were lucky with the weather being a balmy 26 degrees for April 2026 who knew what was to come.
Supporting a Small UK Fashion Brand
Every order placed with Bettylicious Retro supports an independent UK business that's passionate about creating beautiful, high-quality vintage-inspired swimwear.
When you choose Bettylicious Retro, you're not just buying a swimsuit—you're investing in a piece that's been thoughtfully designed with confidence, comfort, and timeless style at its heart.
Whether you're planning your next holiday, treating yourself for summer, or simply looking for swimwear that makes you feel fabulous, I'd love to help you find your perfect fit.
Ready to embrace timeless glamour? Browse the latest Bettylicious Retro collection and discover vintage-inspired swimwear designed to help you look—and feel—your absolute best.
Many thanks to Liz and her staff, the trustees for letting me use the location. If you are in the somerset location here is the link below to book. I cant wait to go again.
Betty x
