Fashion is a reflection of the times, reflecting social, cultural, and political influences. You can take a look at a picture from a certain period and make accurate deductions about the time it was taken. Perhaps trends don’t come and go as we believe; through the decades, various trends have emerged, evolved, and sometimes resurfaced in new forms. Trends emerge, stay, and go through a certain period of hibernation to re-emerge in an improved form. Today we will talk about two fashion trends from the twentieth century: the Flapper style of the 1920s and the Grunge movement of the 1990s.
The Flapper Style of the 1920s
Today: Vintage Glamour
Before: Flapper Fashion
The Flapper style emerged in the 1920s, a decade characterised by economic prosperity, cultural dynamism, and social upheaval. It was a direct response to the rigid Victorian and Edwardian eras, reflecting newfound freedoms for women. The term “flapper” originally referred to young women with a carefree, spirited attitude, often seen dancing in jazz clubs and not conforming to conventional norms. Remember Josephine Baker and her iconic stage style? It’s quite hard to think of the flapper style without remembering Josephine Baker. The musician and activist walked the flapper style with elegance and audacity as she challenged societal and racial norms.
Description
The iconic flapper dress was loose-fitting, often with a dropped waistline, a short hemline, and a straight, boyish silhouette. Luxurious materials such as silk, satin, and chiffon were common, adorned with sequins, beads, and fringes; to be styled with long pearl necklaces, cloche hats, feathered headbands, and T-strap shoes were essential to the look.
Hairstyle and Makeup
The bob haircut and bold makeup, including dark eyeshadow and red lipstick, completed the flapper look.
Fashion History – Changes Over Time
Today, the flapper style is celebrated as vintage glamour, often revived in fashion collections and costume parties. Modern adaptations focus on the elegance and opulence of the era with a contemporary twist. Designers incorporate modern fabrics and technology while retaining the essence of the 1920s aesthetic.
The Grunge Movement of the 1990s
Today: Streetwear/Alternative Fashion
Before: Grunge Fashion
Something from the millennial: grunge fashion originated in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in Seattle, alongside the grunge music movement in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was a reaction against the flashy, materialistic trends of the 1980s, favouring a more laid-back, dishevelled aesthetic. The style was heavily influenced by the DIY ethos and the grunge music scene.
Description
Grunge fashion is characterised by oversized and layered clothing, including flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and loose-fitting sweaters made with plaid flannel, denim, and worn-out fabrics to emphasise comfort and practicality. The grunge look goes alongside combat boots and worn-out sneakers, beanies, band T-shirts, and thrift store finds to elevate the unpolished, rebellious vibe. Stay up to date on the newest in the world of Fashion, Arts, Beauty and Lifestyle; Follow FAB on Instagram.
Fashion History – Changes Over Time
Grunge fashion has evolved into what is now known as streetwear or alternative (late) fashion. It looks like Gen-Z took off where the Millennials stopped, doesn’t it? While retaining its anti-establishment roots, contemporary grunge incorporates high-fashion elements and a more polished look. Designers like Marc Jacobs and brands like Vetements have reimagined grunge, blending it with modern aesthetics and luxury materials.
By understanding the evolution of these trends, we gain more insight into how fashion not only mirrors history but also shapes it. There has and will always be an interplay between culture, identity, and self-expression bridged by fashion. Stay tuned for more.
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