If there’s one thing that most people can agree on in the world of fashion is that fashion always recycles, whether we like it or not. Fashion has changed dramatically over the course of a century, but it still keeps trends from the past alive.
Starting with the old-school trends of the 1950s that were later revived into a more modern style in the late 2000s, fashion is constantly on a seemingly endless tidal wave of revival and change.
Fashion is linked to identity for both women and men. There are numerous ways to style and dress that may be inspired by print, media, or anything from the past. As we look forward to the future, we can assume a shift in both fashion and fashion choices.
To understand fashion in its current state, you must first know and appreciate the history of fashion trends throughout recent history. Let’s dive into history to discover what transformations fashion has undergone over the years from the most trend-setting styles to the most unforgettable. See here for what is a shaper bra?.
1950s
The 1950s were an indication of economic growth. Conservatism and conformity characterized the social norms during this Post-World-War II era. With a conservative ideology running the United States, however, during this period, there was room for rebellion and fashion was the perfect tool for expressing it.
The 1950s was a time when fashion evolved for both women and men. Among the most popular pieces of clothing during this period were shoulder pads, fitted blouses, round collars for the women, as well as high-waisted trousers and ties for the men. The vast majority of printed patterns would be hand-decorated with beads and paints, which made them unique.
Hats
Wearing hats was perhaps the biggest trend of this time. Women were inspired by Audrey Hepburn and how her short hair hid underneath a small hat. On the contrary, men wore hats as an everyday occurrence specifically felt hats. As you can often see in early films, men would be seen running in the streets wearing high-waisted trousers, buttoned-up shirts, ties, and felt hats.
Cigarette Cases
In terms of accessories, a pack of cigarettes and its case were all that were needed to be on-trend. Before the negative aspects of smoking cigarettes were discovered, such as getting cancer, it was the fad for an entire generation. Smoking cigarettes was considered cool and virtually everyone did it.
1960s
The 1960s stand out in American history. People most notably remember this period for its counterculture and change in social norms using clothing, education, sexuality, and drugs, to name a few. To be frank, people desired individual freedom and artistic and social rebellion was the only way to get it.
The most notable events during this time were the “I Have a Dream” speech by Martin Luther King, the assassination of John F. Kennedy, the inauguration of Richard Nixon, as well as the Summer of Love in San Francisco that ushered in the hippie movement.
The Hippie Movement
The hippie movement of the 1960s followed Beatlemania, Woodstock, as well as the ongoing conflict with Vietnam. Tie-dye became incredibly popular to display freedom and opposition. Tie-and-dye was used on virtually everything including shirts, trousers, headbands, and even shoes.
While tie-and-dye would seem universal and allow for personal fashion freedom, women were still discouraged from wearing trousers. Jeans were considered inappropriate and therefore women wore flowy dresses and skirts.