From bell-bottoms and platform shoes to shoulder pads and acid wash jeans, the fashion of decades past can be as easily remembered as the moments and memories of the eras. We have all seen the classic films and photographs, and held the nostalgic clothes of generations before us. Now is the time to explore these iconic fashion eras: the trends that defined decades.
1. A Closer Look at Iconic Fashion Eras
Fashion evolves, creating spectacular trends every season – no wonder it’s so difficult to keep up. But some fashion eras have been written in the stars, standing the test of time – thanks to their unique styles and daring designs. Here’s a closer look at five distinct outfits that will never go out of style.
- The Flapper Girl
A staple of the 1920s, these free-spirited cuties were known for being risqué. Their flapper dresses, often involving feather trim and slits, were the talk of the town. The era marked the birth of modern fashion, with lower hemlines, brighter colors, and shorter haircuts. - Classic Hollywood Glamour
Iconic stars like Marilyn Monroe, Paul Newman, and Diane Keaton graced the silver screen with attractive wardrobe choices, such as fitted suits, eye-catching gowns, and irresistible accessories. This look was all about class, sophistication, and a certain kind of grace. - Romantic Edwardian
The start of the Edwardian era was the heyday of extravagant fashion, filled with gauzy fabrics, beadwork, lace, ruffles, and complex draping. Fabrics boasted beautiful embroidered patternings, and skirts were widely voluminous. Women often trimmed the hems of their garments with intricate designs in vivid colors. - Punk Rebellion
In the ’70s, punk fashion took off with the rise of punk bands and culture. An anti-establishment attitude practically brown bagged with deliberately ripped jeans, leather jackets, t-shirts featuring surreal prints, and eccentric jewelry. Independent artists found inspiration in dark colors and apocalyptic sentiments. - 80s Neons
The neon revolution of the 80s was a call to party, evident in its outgoing color palette. Acid wash denim shorts, provocative denim jackets, and vacation-ready shirts defined the decade. Iconic celebrities such as Madonna and Prince were the poster children of the trend, sporting music-inspired clothes.
These distinct styles come with spectacular silhouettes that have captured many fashion eras, proving to be timeless classics. From the gold standard of 20s chic to the outrageous statements of the ’80s, they still enlighten our closets with their elaborate pieces and breath of fresh air.
Creativity has no bounds – and fashion is certainly no exception. While the present offers exciting opportunities, the best styles have already happened, while trends come and go. After all, some things are eternal.
2. Exploring the Looks of the Decades
Fashion has always been an ever-changing landscape of styles from decade to decade, transforming from a subdued form of self-expression to a far more daring art form. From the bell-bottoms of the ’70s to the polyester disco suits of the ’80s, we take a look at some of the most iconic looks through the decades that made a lasting impact.
- 1920s: As the decade began, women ditched their corsets and restrictive layers for more daring designs that showed off their figure. Flapper dresses featuring fringes and beading, cropped shingtops, and long bobs became the defining symbols of the ’20s.
- 1940s: The Second World War brought about change in fashion, as people started to prioritize practicality over glamour. Women’s clothing focused on long and slender skirts and suits cinched at the waist, while men donned wider trousers and military attire.
- 1960s: By the ’60s, the world was ready to return to brighter, more colorful styles. This was also the decade the miniskirt was born, as well as the iconic-pillbox hat worn by Jackie Kennedy. And there were bold prints and go-go boots too!
- 1970s: Coinciding with the rising popularity of punk and rock, this decade was when people really began experimenting in fashion. Clown pants, bell-bottoms, and asymmetric cuts were all the rage, as were fishnet stockings, platform shoes, and coats adored with sequins and fur.
- 1980s: The ’80s was a decade of extremes, expressed through both clothes and hairstyles. Men and women embraced gigantic hair and neon colors with the pop culture of the times. Women wore power shoulders and bright leggins, while guys favored leather and punk garbs.
- 1990s: The ’90s marked the return of vintage looks and streetwear. Little black dresses, floral prints, and velvets were staples, paired with combat boots and chain bags. And of course, who can forget the denim-on-denim trend popularized by stars like Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake?
Whichever decade you choose, what’s clear is that fashion has the power to be an extension of one’s personality, and that an eye-catching outfit can speak volumes about a person’s worldview.
3. Analyzing Key Elements of Stylish bygone Eras
The Roaring Twenties
The Roaring Twenties was a fashion era of extravagance, opulence, and quality materials. Women wore drop waists and fringe, the men donned newsboy caps and suspenders. Cloches and flapper dresses dominated. They were often elaborately crafted and covered in intricate details like beading and lace.
The 50’s & 60’s
The 50’s and 60’s were all about looks that were effortlessly chic. Women embraced the ever-so-popular trench coat, and men often wore suits and blazers. The aim was to appear sophisticated, but not too stuffy.
- Pencil skirts, capri pants, and fuller skirts with pleats were popular for women
- For men, custom-made suits, loafers, and leather shoes added a polished flair
The 70’s & 80’s
The 70’s and 80’s were trend-filled decades known for daring silhouettes and vibrant hues. Men and women alike wore big shoulders and even bigger hair. Shoulder pads, wide collars, and metallic fabrics added drama.
- Turtlenecks, jumpsuits, and Disco-esque evening wear were popular for women
- Men donned classic aviator sunglasses, unstructured blazers, and wide-cut trousers.
The 90’s & 2000’s
The 90’s and 2000’s saw the rise of casual streetwear. Due to the proliferation of affordable global fast-fashion, trends changed quicker than ever before. People favored relaxed fits, denim, and modern updates to vintage pieces.
- Cargo pants, chunky sneakers, and grunge-inspired plaid coats were popular for women
- Men donned oversized hoodies, low rise jeans, and timeless leather jackets
4. The Influential Power of Stylish Statements
Making a stylish statement can influence the people around you in more ways than you might realize.
The Power of Routing
When someone wears an eye-catching outfit and makes a statement, they send a message and draw the attention of the people around them. Whether it’s the loud print of a tie or the glittering chain of a necklace, styling yourself is akin to a form of routing, directing traffic flows of attention and admiration in your direction.
The Strength of Uniqueness
You might have noticed that the outfits that truly garner attention seldom conform to the ideals of the mainstream. What makes them special is that they challenge a certain standard, making them a powerful visual statement of who you are on the inside. It is in their uniqueness that they are able to make such a strong impact on those around them.
The Language of Possibilities
Dressing in a manner that speaks to your values and personal beliefs can show people that you have ideas and ambitions in life. Clothes you wear send out vibes of success and alertness, demonstrating that you are aware of your capabilities and you are open to possibilities.
The Charisma of Colors
When you make a bold statement in favorite colors, you bind yourself to your presence. Colors reflect the emotional fragments of your personality, forming a connection between you and those who are observing.
Enacting Change
In addition to showing off your identity, stylish statements are also a great way to make a statement about the world. Whether you’re looking to promote an environmental concern, a political movement, or an overall change in attitude, your clothes can represent your efforts.
The Empowerment of Self
Finally, making stylish statements can express a sense of vivacity and electrify even the most modest of individuals. Through fashion, you can create an aura of confidence and serve as a public reminder that you are in control of your own life.
From the nostalgia of the 50s to the excesses of the 80s, the iconic fashion eras of the last century were defined by the social and political events of their time. While trends and fashion styles come and go, these eras will be forever remembered as some of the most impacting and revolutionary looks of all time.
