Business Notes SWIMWEAR

By now bikini is a generic term, but the original article has been custom-made in Paris ever since designer Louis Reard introduced his bombshell of a swimsuit in June 1946. Alas, last week the Reard boutique closed its doors. Reason: the sportswear company that now owns the swimwear line plans to sell off the rights to it for a seductive sum. Anyone for a plunge?