Since the beginning of time, humankind has embraced their uniqueness and expressed it through one of the most acclaimed art forms of our time: fashion. Every new period has welcomed its own design aesthetic, pushing the boundaries of classic trends and introducing something fresh — a journey through time, reflecting the soul and spirit of that age. From the elitism of the Renaissance to the modern collections of the 21st century, fashion continues to evolve season after season, defining the cultural zeitgeist of today. In this article, we will take a look back through the ages and explore the evolution of fashion over the ages.
1. A Stitch In Time: A Visual Journey Through Fashion History
Nothing reminds us of our ever changing culture like fashion. Fashion evolves with time, bringing new trends and discarding old ones. For centuries, fashion has been used to express our identity, showcase social status and even make a statement on the political or social climate.
Here, we take a journey through fashion history. We look at the different clothing styles of each era and follow its evolution to the modern day.
The Early 1800s
- The favored clothing style of the early 1800s was classical and elegant.
- Women would wear dresses made of fine, light fabrics, like silk, cotton and muslin.
- Men’s clothing was tailored for a neat, slim silhouette.
The Late 1800s
- In the late 1800s, fashion trends were heavily influenced by the industrial revolution.
- Women embraced new fabrics like tweed and velvet, with lavish embellishments for a presence on the streets and in the ballroom.
- Men opted for suits with fancy features. Mustaches and beards became a fashionable look.
The 20th Century
- The roaring twenties ushered in a period of unrestrained decadence.
- Women wore skirts that showed their legs for the first time.
- In the 50s, rock & roll and rockabilly fashion defined the look of the day, replacing the stiff suits of earlier eras.
- The modern day fashion is heavily influenced by technology, with bright colors and high tech fabrics.
2. Classic Styles That Endured Time’s Test
When it comes to fashion, time and trends may come and go, but classic styles always prevail. From perfectly tailored suits to timeless gowns, these styles have been embraced generation after generation. Here are some of the ageless styles that endure time’s test.
- The White Button Down Shirt: The wardrobe staple for all occasions, from beach days to boardroom meetings.
- The Little Black Dress: The go-to look when you want to look stunning and sophisticated.
- The Blazer: A stylish way to dress up your look, whether you pair it with a dress or trousers.
From tailored trousers to quaint ballet flats, classic styles are always in style and never go out of fashion. These pieces will come in handy when you don’t have time to think about what to wear.
The fashion industry rapidly changes, but a few classics will never go out of style. After all, why reinvent the wheel when all you need is the perfect fit and style that proves to stand the test of time.
3. Breaking the Rules: Rebellious Trends That Challenged Authority
Throughout history, when authority has sought to restrict its citizens, rebellious ideas and trends have surfaced in response. In some cases, a trend has emerged that revolved around the idea of charting a different course, challenging the status quo, and broadening the scope of what is considered acceptable. Some of these rebellious trends that made a lasting impression throughout the ages included:
- Fashion – Although it may seem like a frivolous endeavor today, fashion has always played a role in making statements about one’s beliefs or cultural identity. In the Middle Ages, the peasants rebelled against the standards of fashion favored by the aristocracy, instead embracing a new style associated with their rural backgrounds. During the 1960s, hippie fashion emerged as a way to challenge the conformism and traditionalism of the era. This trend continued to evolve and has been embraced over the years by people who value some level of nonconformity, even if it only expresses itself in the clothing they wear.
- Music – Music has always been a powerful way to convey an alternative message. During the Romantic era, composers like Beethoven created works that sought to rebel against classical traditions. Rock and roll has been used to express feelings of frustration and rebellion in numerous cultures. Punk rock, in particular, was seen as a radical, anti-establishment movement that emerged in the UK during the 1970s, and continues to influence modern music culture in various ways.
- Political Movements – Abolitionist movements throughout history have been some of the highest profile forms of rebellion against authority. The Suffragettes helped lead the fight for voting rights for women. African-Americans pushed for civil rights and an end to discrimination and segregation. In recent times, Occupy Wall Street was a form of protest against the greed of the wealthy and powerful, while the Arab Spring highlighted a search for greater democracy in the Middle East.
From politics to fashion, rebellious trends have been used throughout history to challenge authority and to fight for greater freedom and equality.
4. Making Connections: Popular Styles Then And Now
The current trends in fashion have many elements borrowed from the past. From neon colours to bright patterns, these lively looks can be dated all the way back to the 50s and 60s. In recent years, certain styles have made major comebacks in modern fashion. Even vintage styles, while given a contemporary twist, can be seen storming the runway.
One of the most popular retro styles of the moment is the puffed sleeve top. This was a hit back in the 80s, seen on the likes of Dynasty’s Alexis Carrington. A less dramatic take is worn today, often featuring with puffy sleeves and trim around the collar or in the form of a blouse. The bomber jacket, while associated with military garb, has seen a resurgence of late with added sheen and shimmery fabric.
A trend that refuses to go away is leopard print. This wild look, from the 1940s, was popularized by Christian Dior in 1947 in his “New Look” collection. It appeared to be everywhere in the 1950s, in dresses, mules, stoles, coats, shorts, and bedding. While it may have underestimated in popularity during the years, the pattern is back and just as bold. It can be seen on anything from T-shirts to footwear, and even eyewear.
The classic shift dress is a timeless style continually revisited by fashion designers. Its origins from the mid-1960s gained steam in the 1960s when Audrey Hepburn wore Givenchy versions of the style on and off the screen. Now, given a modern twist, you can spot a shift dress made from luxe fabrics or denims, with added embellishments like lace collars. Designers sure know how to reinvent a classic!
5. A Closer Look: The Social Significance of Fashion
We cannot talk about fashion without also discussing the social implications it carries. Fashion is not only reflective of our personal sensibilities but of societal standards as well. It can evoke reactions of approval and disapproval, inclusion and exclusion. It prompts conversations and provokes discourse.
To many, fashion can be seen as the ultimate form of self expression. The clothes we put on embody our sense of style, which stems from our culture and upbringing. It can be seen as a way of conforming, as it allows us to fit into our desired demographic, while also allowing us to display our individualities. Through fashion, we’re able to communicate our values and outlook on life.
On the other hand, fashion may be viewed as another vessel for class divides. Not everybody has the ability to keep up with trends and some may not be able to afford designer clothes. As a result, this reinforces a sense of hierarchy in society, where one’s access to certain apparel can denote superiority or inferiority. As fashion is so intertwined with our culture, it can create a hierarchy of privilege and inequity.
Fashion also plays an integral role in gender relations. Clothing can serve as a way to create gender specific norms in society. For example, skirts are deemed to be more feminine than pants and might only be worn by one gender. This kind of gender specific dress code helps to shape our conceptions of gender identity.
Fashion is deeply entrenched in the social fabric of our society, ultimately influencing our perceptions in more ways than one. By looking a little closer, it’s clear that fashion is more than just clothing. Beyond trends and aesthetics, it has a deep rooted social significance.
As we take this journey through time, it’s amazing to see the incredible evolution of fashion that has taken place. A journey that began with basic cave clothing staples has led us to the fashion-rich times of today. As we celebrate the many fashion pioneers of past centuries, we also take a moment to thank them for their style influence in the modern world.
