What is the origin of wet t shirt competitions?

Wet T-shirt contests originated in the United States in the 1970s as a way to raise money for charity. Originally, they were held at local bars and community events, with men participating for the entertainment of women. However, wet T-shirt contests quickly gained popularity and began to feature women as well, drawing both male and female audiences who came to see skimpy clothing and physical attractiveness rather than just supporting a cause. While they remained controversial, such contests became a staple of American pop culture with events televised, broadcast on radio, promoted as attractions at festivals and fairs, or used to attract business at clubs or bars. With some exceptions they had fallen out of popularity by the turn of the 21st century.