The Florida Girls Troupe

The Florida Girls, a traveling troupe of talented women, gained international recognition during World War II for their appearances from coast to coast, showcasing their talents in major theaters and department stores. They even showcased on major television and radio shows, further solidifying their reputation. The fact that three of the girls entered the Miss America contest in Atlantic City and two of them were close seconds speaks to the expertise of their creator, Doc. It is interesting to note that the idea of using the raised hemlines of bathing costumes to attract tourists dates back to the 1920s.

This scheme is mentioned in the article as having been heard by the writer, "L."L. Kirchner... who was intrigued by the story and decided to pursue it further.

Source: Found here

Webb's internationally known Poster Girls have appeared from coast to coast, from Maine to Florida. They have been featured on major television and radio shows. The girls have also staged fashion and talent shows in the country's major theaters and most prominent department stores … The fact that three of Webb's beauties were entrants in the Miss America contest in Atlantic City and that two of them were close seconds attest (sic) to Doc's skill at judging feminine pulchritude.
Writer L.L. Kirchner knew a good story when it looked her square in the face. "I saw this photo of these swimsuit models, and I saw that they toured out of St. Pete," says the St. Petersburg-based scribe. "Which I thought was odd. And even odder still was that it was during World War II. And beyond.