History of Fashion

The history of fashion has changed over time, but one thing is true – styles that you think are long dead usually come back in some form. The history of modern fashion usually dates back to the mid 1800s. It was then that bloomers, a type of trousers, first became popular for women. Up until the point, women were expected to wear skirts only. By the time World War I was in force, many women were working and wore pants to work. The 1920s are known for the Flappers. Flappers were young women who embraced the carefree feel of the moment. It is believed they were named flappers after young bird, flapping trying to leave the nest. But they are best known for their dress. Their hair was cut in a “bob,” often giving them a boyish appearance, especially when slicked down. They abandoned corsets and pantaloons for the new panties you stepped in. Tightly wrapped clothes flatten their breasts and their dresses were often straight, with the waistline dropped to their hips.

The history of fashion was changed when the flappers were met with the reality of the Depression. Hemlines dropped during the time of the Depression, but slowly began to rise again. In the 40s, a fashionable woman would wear a suit with a tight waistline and wide shoulders. The harshness of that look was replaced in the 50s by a softer, rounder look in dress. The Sixties sent the history of fashion on its ear. The decade introduced many firsts; mini skirts, hot pants, go go boots, and see through blouses. Many different fabrics were played with in fashion during the Sixties as well as bright new colors never before seen.