Welcome back to The Velvet Runway where today Hannah Rees is exploring Fashion through the decades : Iconic Styles from the last 100 years.
Fashion is more than just clothing; it’s a reflection of the cultural, social, and economic dynamics of its time, and from the roaring twenties to the rebellious sixties and beyond, each decade has brought its own distinct fashion trends and styles that continue to inspire and influence modern fashion. Let’s take a look at Fashion through the decades and explore the evolution of style
Fashion through the decades: Iconic Styles from the last 100 years
Fashion has also always been influenced by iconic people who have set trends and have left a lasting impact on the fashion industry. These people are known as style icons and are admired for their distinctive and influential fashion sense.
These fashion icons defined their respective decades, and as fashion is cyclical, elements from each era continue to be reinterpreted and adopted by today’s designers and fashion enthusiasts.
So our exploration of Fashion through the decades is inextricably linked to the style icons from the different decades whose timeless sense of fashion continues to inspire today.
Fashion through the Decades
I. 1920s – The Flapper style
The flapper era refers to a cultural and social period that took place in the United States in the 1920s, specifically in the aftermath of the First World War. The Flapper Era was marked by a shift in cultural attitudes, with the emphasis on liberation and the term “flapper” was used to describe women who rebelled against the traditional societal norms of the time and became known for their unconventional behaviour and desire for independence.
In terms of style, the main characteristics of the flapper style include short skirts, bobbed haircuts and a more androgynous style, reflecting the changing dynamics and values of society in the early 20th century.
Icons of the era include women such as American-born French entertainer Josephine Baker, American actress and ‘It Girl’ Clara Bow, American dancer and actress Louise Brooks, writer Zelda Fitzgerald and, of course, iconic French fashion designer Coco Chanel.
These women not only embraced the fashion elements of the flapper era, they also contributed to the cultural change of the time, challenging traditional norms and embracing a more liberated, independent lifestyle. Their iconic styles continue to influence fashion enthusiasts and designers looking for inspiration from the Roaring Twenties.
One of the ways the flapper era has left a lasting impact on modern fashion is with shorter hemlines and looser, more relaxed silhouettes. Chanel’s innovative and liberating designs, notably the little black dress, continue to influence modern fashion, and miniskirts, shift dresses and loose-fitting garments are still popular today, reflecting the desire for comfort and a sense of freedom in fashion.
The iconic bob haircut, popularised by flapper women, remains a classic and timeless hairstyle, and many contemporary women still choose shorter haircuts that echo the bold, modern look of flapper hairstyles. The geometric patterns, clean lines and bold metallic accents associated with the Art Deco aesthetic are often incorporated into contemporary clothing and accessories. Finally, the flapper era celebrated individuality and the emphasis on personal style and this is a trend that continues in contemporary fashion, where diversity and uniqueness are celebrated.
2. 1930s – The Golden Age of Hollywood Glamour
The Golden Age of Hollywood refers to a period in the history of American cinema characterised by the rise of the major film studios and the production of iconic films. During this time, Hollywood not only influenced the world of cinema, but also played an important role in shaping fashion and style. At its inception in the 1930s, there was a transition in fashion from the flapper styles of the previous decade to more elegant and sophisticated looks, with a celebration of classic beauty.
The icons of the era were women such as Hollywood actress Jean Harlow, who often wore flowing, bias-cut dresses that accentuated her figure, contributing to the sultry, sophisticated aesthetic of the time, and Swedish-born actress Greta Garbo, who popularised slim-fitting suits, baggy trousers and oversized blazers, reflecting the influence of men’s fashion on women’s fashion at the time. Other icons include actresses Bette Davies, Katharine Hepburn, Carole Lombard and German-American actress Marlene Dietrich.
The fashion icons of the 1930s continue to influence contemporary fashion in many ways, such as striking the perfect balance between power and femininity.
The tailored, sophisticated looks of 1930s fashion, popularised by icons such as Bette Davis and Katharine Hepburn, continue to inspire modern fashion and contemporary designers often incorporate tailored suits, blazers and wide-leg trousers into their collections.
Marlene Dietrich’s androgynous style influenced contemporary fashion’s exploration of neutral and androgynous garments, and Greta Garbo’s timeless minimalist approach to fashion had a profound impact on modern minimalism with its emphasis on simple lines, neutral colours and understated elegance.
The glamour embodied by Hollywood actresses such as Jean Harlow and Carole Lombard continues to inspire red carpet and eveningwear, and designers often draw on the luxurious fabrics, draping and fitted silhouettes associated with Hollywood’s golden age when creating contemporary evening gowns. Accessories worn by these 1930s icons, such as wide-brimmed hats and jewellery, have made a comeback in modern fashion and designers often reinterpret these accessories to add a touch of vintage glamour to contemporary looks.
3: 1940s – Utility and Elegance during World War II
During the Second World War, fashion underwent significant changes due to the practical demands of wartime. Women adopted utilitarian garments due to fabric rationing, which affected the availability of materials such as silk, nylon and wool, and this scarcity led to innovations in fabric alternatives, with rayon and synthetic fabrics becoming more prevalent.
This era saw the birth of the iconic ‘Rosie the Riveter‘ look, with women wearing jumpsuits and scarves, and the ‘Make Do and Mend‘ mentality encouraged people to repair and reuse clothes rather than discard them.
But despite the constraints of war, designers and individuals found ways to inject a sense of elegance into wartime fashion and military-inspired clothing, A-line dresses, padded shoulders and peplum jackets were popular. And red lipstick, in particular, became a symbol of morale and femininity.
Fashion icons of the era include British actress Vivien Leigh, best known for her role as Scarlett O’Hara in “Gone with the Wind” (1939), Swedish actress Ingrid Bergman, American actress Veronica Lake, American actress Joan Crawford and Ava Gardner.
It is important to note that during the Second World War, the impact of fashion icons was influenced not only by Hollywood stars, but also by the fashion choices of royalty, first ladies and women in various professions.
The fashion icons of the Second World War continue to influence contemporary fashion and contemporary designers draw inspiration from the tailored suits, modest dresses and elegant evening gowns that characterised the wartime era. Military-inspired fashion, popularised during the Second World War, periodically resurfaces in contemporary fashion with trends such as trench coats, slim-fitting jackets and utilitarian details that pay homage to the practical yet elegant clothing of the wartime era.
4: 1950s – The Classic Elegance
The 1950s is often considered a golden age for classic elegance in fashion. The post-war period brought a sense of prosperity, and fashion reflected a return to more refined and polished styles. The decade is renowned for its feminine silhouettes, with cinched waists and full skirts. The hourglass figure was emphasised, and dresses often featured fitted bodices and voluminous skirts. This classic silhouette continues to influence contemporary fashion, with designers revisiting and reinterpreting these flattering shapes in modern designs.
The 1950s produced a number of fashion icons who embodied the classic elegance and style of the era, such as Audrey Hepburn, Hollywood actress and Princess Grace of Monaco, Grace Kelly, Marilyn Monroe who popularised tight dresses, plunging necklines and the classic hourglass silhouette. French actress Brigitte Bardot was also known for her sultry, glamorous style and Doris Day‘s style reflected the femininity of the time with full skirts, floral prints and modest but elegant dresses.
As for men’s fashion icons, James Dean was celebrated for his rebellious, laid-back style, as was the king of rock and roll, Elvis Presley, who influenced not only the music scene, but also the fashion scene. With his flamboyant stage outfits, including jumpsuits and bold patterns, he set trends and left a lasting impact on men’s fashion in the 1950s.
The classic elegance of 1950s style has left a lasting imprint on contemporary fashion. Designers and fashion enthusiasts often draw inspiration from the refined silhouettes, meticulous cuts and timeless accessories of this era, to create looks that celebrate the enduring appeal of 1950s elegance.Tea-length dresses and midi dresses, popularised in the 1950s, have made a comeback in contemporary fashion and the 1950s beauty aesthetic, characterised by red lipstick and cat-eye make-up, has made a reappearance in recent years.
5. 1960s – The Mod Revolution
The “Swinging 60s” was a decade of revolution and rebellion, characterized by social change, youth culture, and experimentation, and The Mod revolution was a cultural and fashion movement that emerged in the late 1950s and reached its peak in London in the 1960s. It was a reaction against the conservative norms of the time, emphasising the desire for change, progress and a break from tradition. The term “Mod” is derived from “modernist” and represented a youth-oriented subculture characterised by a distinctly avant-garde approach to fashion, music and lifestyle.
Mod fashion embraced minimalism and emphasised simplicity and clean lines. But mod fashion is also known for its bold use of patterns and bright colours. Geometric patterns, checkerboard prints, polka dots and bold stripes were common, adding a sense of energy and playfulness to clothes.
The checked dress became a symbol of the movement, but perhaps the most iconic item associated with Mod fashion is the miniskirt, popularised by British fashion designer Mary Quant.
She challenged conventional hemlines and made a bold statement about youth culture and liberation. Knee-high and ankle-high boots, known as Go-Go boots, were a popular accessory of Mod fashion.
For men, Mod fashion was characterised by tailored suits with narrow lapels and shorter jackets, and tailoring was essential, with suits often worn with narrow ties and button-down shirts.
Several icons emerged during the Mod revolution in fashion, representing the spirit and style of the movement. British fashion designer Mary Quant is often called the “Queen of the Mods” and Twiggy, an English model and actress, became the face of the Mod fashion scene thanks to her androgynous look, short hair and doe eyes. Other important models of the Mod era were Jean Shrimpton and Pattie Boyd.
As for the men, hairdresser Vidal Sassoon played a crucial role in shaping the iconic hairstyles of the Mods of the time. And the Beatles, particularly in their early years, embraced the Mod style with their slim-fitting suits, skinny ties and Chelsea boots.
Mod fashion can still be seen today, with designers and fashion enthusiasts taking inspiration from its bold patterns, clean lines and youthful spirit. Short hemlines and mini-dresses, as well as the mini-skirt, are still present in contemporary fashion, adopted by designers and fashion enthusiasts as symbols of youth and modernity. The Mod movement challenged traditional gender norms, and this influence is reflected in contemporary fashion’s exploration of androgynous styles. Mod-inspired accessories such as Go-Go boots and oversized sunglasses continue to make an appearance in modern fashion, and designers often reinterpret these iconic accessories, adding a touch of retro to contemporary looks.
6: 1970s – Bohemian Chic
The 1970s was a decade of experimentation and diversity in fashion, with styles ranging from bohemian and casual to glamorous and avant-garde.
Loose, flowing garments such as maxi dresses, peasant blouses and caftans characterised the bohemian style of the early 1970s and the emphasis was on natural, organic fabrics such as cotton, linen and hemp. Fringe detailing and crochet work were popular, adding an artisanal touch to garments, and bohemian and folk-inspired prints, often drawn from world cultures, were incorporated into garments. And let’s not forget bell-bottom jeans, which were a signature look of the 1970s, adopted by men and women alike.
Diane von Fürstenberg‘s wrap dress, introduced in the 1970s, became an iconic piece, and the use of synthetic fabrics such as polyester became popular because of their stretchy, shiny qualities.
Preppy fashion, influenced by Ivy League style, was characterised by polo shirts, jumpers tied around the shoulders and tennis-inspired looks, and corduroy and tweed fabrics were commonly used, reflecting a more conservative and relaxed aesthetic.
Towards the second half of the decade, glam rock emerged and both men and women adopted platform shoes with exaggerated heights. Disco influences led to a love of sequins and bold patterns. The late 70s saw a fascination with futuristic and space-age fashion, with metallic fabrics, clean lines and avant-garde designs.
The 70s spawned a whole host of fashion icons, including Farrah Fawcett, ‘Charlie’s Angels’, British actress and singer Jane Birkin, Bianca Jagger, Patti Smith, Cher, David Bowie, John Travolta and Elton John.
Their impact is still felt today, with designers and fashion enthusiasts often taking inspiration from the iconic looks of the 1970s. The Hermès Birkin bag, named after Jane Birkin, remains one of the most coveted fashion accessories to this day. Loose, flowing silhouettes, including maxi dresses and peasant blouses in natural fabrics, continue to be popular in contemporary bohemian and casual styles, and the iconic wrap dress, popularised by Diane von Fürstenberg in the 1970s, remains a versatile and flattering choice for modern women, as it flatters all body types.
The flared, wide-legged silhouette of the 1970s is making a comeback, with many fashion brands offering modern interpretations of flared jeans, and the glamour of disco fashion is being revisited through the use of sequins, metallics and glitter in contemporary evening and partywear.
7: 1980s – Power Dressing
The 1980s was a decade known for its diversity and willingness to embrace bold, exaggerated and sometimes unconventional styles. The decade saw the emergence of power suits, characterised by sharp shoulder pads, tailored blazers and high-waisted trousers or skirts, and this trend was associated with the empowerment of women in the workplace.
Neon colours were a staple of 80s fashion and bright pinks, greens, yellows and electric blues were popular choices, often worn in bold combinations.
The popularity of aerobics and fitness culture influenced fashion. Leggings, leotards and sweatbands became fashionable workout wear, often worn outside the gym for a casual look. Inspired by the film “Flashdance“, low-cut tops and oversized sweatshirts worn over one shoulder became a casual look, and leg warmers, originally worn by dancers, became a fashionable accessory, often paired with skinny jeans.
Voluminous hairstyles were emblematic of the 80s. Perms and tousled hair were in vogue and bold, oversized accessories, including massive jewellery, large earrings and statement belts, were popular. The 80s also saw the rise of “logomania”, where the prominent display of brand logos on clothing became a status symbol.
The 80s boasted a plethora of fashion icons who played an important role in shaping the style and trends of the decade, including the “Queen of Pop”, Madonna, with her ever-changing looks, and Princess Diana, with her impeccable sense of style. The “King of Pop”, Michael Jackson, also had a profound impact on 80s fashion with his military-style jackets, fedora hats, unique white glove and iconic red leather jacket from ‘Thriller’.
Prince’s flamboyant style had a significant influence on 80s fashion with his ruffled blouses, high-heeled boots and bold colour choices that challenged traditional gender norms and paved the way for bold fashion statements.
Other icons include Cyndi Lauper, Brooke Shields, George Michael, Joan Collins, Tom Cruise and Whitney Houston.
These 80s fashion icons not only reflected the diverse styles of the decade, but also contributed to the cultural impact of 80s fashion. Their influence is still felt today, with contemporary fashion often revisiting and reinterpreting the bold, iconic looks of that vibrant era, such as oversized, structured silhouettes and neon colours.
8: 1990s – Minimalism and Grunge
The 1990s was a diverse and influential decade in fashion, witnessing the rise of contrasting styles such as minimalism and grunge.
Minimalist fashion adopted clean lines and simple, uncluttered silhouettes. It favoured a neutral colour palette, with black, white, beige and grey taking centre stage and it pushed for the use of high-quality fabrics and good tailoring.
Grunge fashion emerged as a rejection of mainstream style and adopted an anti-fashion ethos, characterised by a DIY attitude. Wearing mismatched, oversized and worn clothing was a deliberate style choice and the iconic flannel shirt became a symbol of the movement. Worn and torn denim, whether in the form of jeans or jackets, was a hallmark of grunge style and footwear played a crucial role in grunge fashion, with combat boots and Doc Martens being popular choices.The grunge look extended to hairstyles, with unkempt and tousled hair being very popular.
Both minimalism and grunge represented a break with the excesses of previous decades, albeit in different ways. While minimalism celebrated simplicity and timeless elegance, grunge embraced a raw, DIY, rebellious aesthetic.
Minimalism is associated with Calvin Klein and British model Kate Moss, while Nirvana singer Kurt Cobain has become a grunge icon, as has actress Winona Ryder.
As for pop culture icons, you had the members of the Spice Girls, a British girl band, as well as Jennifer Aniston and Drew Barrymore.
The fashion of the 1990s continues to influence contemporary fashion, with the idea of investing in quality basics for a versatile wardrobe gaining in popularity. Minimalism, after all, encourages the concept of a capsule wardrobe, focusing on essential, well-made pieces.
The casual, relaxed styles associated with grunge, including oversized flannel shirts, distressed jeans and combat boots, have become staples of contemporary streetwear and designers often incorporate grunge-inspired elements into their collections, such as distressed denim, check patterns and combat boots. The grunge movement’s emphasis on DIY and thrifted clothing is in line with today’s emphasis on sustainable, eco-friendly fashion.
9: 2000s – Streetwear and Casual Cool
The 2000s saw the rise of streetwear as a major fashion trend, with a focus on casual, comfortable and urban-inspired styles, and graphic t-shirts with bold, oversized logos became a fashion staple. Brands like Supreme gained popularity for their distinctive and recognisable logos, which were often oversized.
The 2000s saw the emergence of athleisure, a mix of athletic and leisure wear. Sweatpants, trainers and sports jackets became everyday fashion items and brands such as Nike and Adidas played an important role in promoting this trend. Elements of skate and surf culture strongly influenced streetwear in the 2000s: baggy jeans, baggy cargo trousers and skate shoes such as Vans were popular choices.
Baggy and distressed jeans were also a notable style in the 2000s, and bootcut and wide-leg jeans were popular with both men and women.Hip-hop culture also had a major impact on streetwear during this period. Rappers and musicians became style icons, influencing fashion trends with baggy clothes, flashy jewellery and a mix of luxury and streetwear brands.
Icons of the decade included the Olsen Twins, Jay-Z and Beyoncé, as well as Pharell Williams.
The streetwear aesthetic of the 2000s has made a strong comeback in recent years. Nostalgia plays an important role, as people appreciate and reinterpret the styles they grew up with. The culture of collaboration established in the 2000s has persisted, with brands frequently teaming up with artists, musicians and other designers to create unique, limited edition pieces.
10: 2010s – The Influencer Era
The 2010s marked a significant shift in the fashion landscape with the rise of social media and the emergence of the influencer era. Influencers, individuals who have built large audiences on platforms such as Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat, have become powerful voices in shaping fashion trends, preferences and brand perceptions.
Influencers have often collaborated with fast fashion brands, making trendy and affordable clothing more accessible to their followers. This democratisation of fashion has contributed to the acceleration of trends and a more rapid renewal of styles. High-profile influencers have worked with established fashion houses and emerging labels, creating exclusive collections and boosting brand visibility. Influencers have also played a key role in promoting body positivity and diversity in fashion. By showcasing a range of body types, ethnicities and personal styles, they have challenged traditional beauty standards and promoted a more inclusive fashion landscape.
These icons include Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, Olivia Palermo and Alexa Chung.
The influence of the 2010s influencer era on contemporary fashion continues to be significant, as social media platforms remain at the heart of fashion consumption and influence. Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and other platforms are powerful tools that allow fashion influencers to reach and connect with a global audience. Collaborations between influencers and fashion brands persist as a key strategy and influencers often design their own collections or partner with brands for limited edition releases.
11: 2020s – Sustainability and Individuality
Sustainability has become a key focus for the fashion industry in the 2020s. Consumers are increasingly demanding transparency, eco-friendly practices and ethical sourcing of materials and many fashion brands are adopting sustainable practices, such as using recycled materials, reducing waste and implementing fair labour practices.
The concept of the circular fashion economy, which focuses on recycling, upcycling and reducing the environmental impact of fashion, has gained ground and brands are exploring ways to extend the life of garments, promote second-hand markets and minimise the industry’s overall carbon footprint.
The slow fashion movement encourages a move away from the fast production and consumption model of fast fashion and consumers are encouraged to invest in high-quality, timeless pieces that are durable and have a longer lifespan.
There is a growing emphasis on individuality as diversity in size and inclusive representations in fashion campaigns are increasingly common. Indeed, fashion brands are embracing a wide range of body types, ethnicities and identities in their campaigns and catwalks, reflecting the diversity of their customer base.
There is a renewed interest in supporting local and artisanal crafts and consumers appreciate handmade items, which helps to preserve traditional techniques and fosters the link between consumers and designers.
Icons include Zendaya, Emma Watson and Timothée Chalamet and sustainable fashion brands include Reformation, Eileen Fisher, Sézane, Gaâla, Monica Vinader and Aspiga.
Final Thoughts on Fashion through the decades: Iconic Styles from the last 100 years
From the glitz and glamour of Old Hollywood to the rebellious spirit of the swinging sixties and beyond, fashion through the decades has evolved in response to the social, cultural, and political currents of its time.
While trends may come and go, the enduring appeal of iconic styles and timeless silhouettes continues to inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts alike, proving that fashion is not just about what we wear, but a reflection of who we are and the world we live in.
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Article By Hannah Rees
Hannah Rees is a writer based in Paris. She currently divides her time between completing her second novel, writing songs on her guitar and working as a fashion designer for private clients. She has a strong fashion background, having studied fashion design in Paris, and counts Prada, Lemaire, House of Marlow, Saint Laurent and Stella McCartney among her influences. She loves discovering the world and dreams of going to Iceland.
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Streetwear and Casual are my favourites now since we move a lot. Happy Easter, Julia.
I love casual for days at home, but I do love a bit of glamour for nights out! xo
Love this post. It is so good to see how some of the fashion has come back strong such as boho and it seems to be here to stay. Happy Easter darling.
https://www.photosbycris.com.au/
Thank you Cris! Happy Easter to you too 😊🐣