Did you ever wonder how fashion has changed over the years? Our transition from the 1920s into the 1960s is perhaps one of the most interesting to explore. From the flapper’s iconic fringed dresses and cloche hats to the mod’s midi skirts and daring hairdos, these two decades in fashion history offer a fascinating window into the social values of the time. In this article, we will take a closer look at the special trends of 1920s and 1960s fashion that made these eras so memorable.
1. Investigating 1920s Flapper Clothes
The 1920s flapper fashion is a style of dress that was popular among women in the Roaring Twenties. This iconic look was characterized by its vibrant colors, daring silhouettes, and unique accessories. Investigating the elements that make up this iconic style will help you recapture this fashion historical moment.
Silhouettes and Lengths
- The iconic 1920s flapper silhouette was loose and often shapeless.
- Higher waists were commonplace, as hemlines rose to scandalous levels.
- Skirts typically fell to the mid-calf or the top of the ankle, but could be shortened with a pair of scissors.
Fabrics
- The fabric of choice for flapper dresses was light, floaty chiffon.
- Sequins and beading were common embellishments.
- In the winter, heavier velvet and fur fabrics were used for warmth.
Colors
- 1920s flapper fashion was characterized by bright, daring colors.
- Mustard yellows, playful pinks, and vibrant purples were in vogue.
- Navy blue was also popular, and offered a subtle alternative.
Accessories
- Headbands, turbans, and hats were used to frame the face.
- Headscarves were an accessory that could be draped and tied in a variety of ways, creating a different look every time.
- Stockings, gloves, and long strands of pearls were also popular accessories.
By understanding the elements of the 1920s flapper style, you can create a look that is sure to be the envy of your friends. From the daring cuts of the dress to the unique accessories, this iconic style is sure to turn heads!
2. Descending Into the Groovy 1960s
The early 1960’s marked the ascension of a musical movement we have come to know as “groovy”. Its defining sonic features include a heavy blend of jazz and rhythm & blues, characterized by funky basslines and infectious backbeats.
The groovy sound touched nearly every genre of popular music in the 1960s, from rock & roll to rhythm & blues. Its central motifs were heard in the songs of iconic artists like Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, and the Rolling Stones, and its influence can still be heard in much of today’s music.
The groovy style of music was also instrumental in blurring the boundaries between different genres of music. Motown acts like The Temptations and Martha & the Vandellas combined elements of funk and soul to create their own unique sound. On the other hand, singers such as Elvis Presley and Arlo Guthrie incorporated elements of rock & roll into their groovy arrangements.
Notable Features
- Strong emphasis on soul and funk
- Heavy backbeats and punchy basslines
- Infectious vocal delivery and dynamic drumming
- Smooth and jazzy guitar solos
The iconic sound of the groovy 1960s continues to inspire and influence modern music. Its defining sonic characteristics have been incorporated into countless subsequent genres, from new wave to punk and hip-hop.
3. Contrasting Decades: A Fashion Revolution
It wasn’t so long ago that fashion changed dramatically from decade to decade. From the boxy silhouettes of the 1950s, to the daring 1960s, and then the vintage-inspired 1970s, fashion was always pushing boundaries to create something new.
The ’80s was no different. Vivienne Westwood and Jean Paul Gaultier embraced punk style to the max, with both designers creating tight-fitting, padded-shoulder jackets and deconstructed pieces. Alongside this, Madonna popularised the mini skirt, becoming the poster girl for the era.
The ’90s saw a surge of androgyny and minimalism, thanks to designers such as Helmut Lang, Alexander McQueen and John Galliano. Intricately tailored pieces cut from luxurious fabrics defined fashion throughout the decade. Key looks included leather jackets paired with vintage t-shirts and boyfriend jeans.
Moving into the 2000s, the minimalism of the ’90s was traded for a grungy, urban aesthetic. Low-rise jeans were everywhere, while waistcoats, vests and converse were all the rage. Celebrities like Kate Moss and Rhianna solidified the trend with their effortless style.
Finally, the 2010s brought us back to our roots. Luxurious fabrics such as velvet and satin returned to the fold, while prints like florals and polka dots reclaimed their place in fashion. Seeing a rise in popularity were ’70s inspired styles with loose-cut trousers and layered slip dresses.
The ever-changing face of fashion means that whatever the new decade brings, we can expect plenty of surprise and excitement.
- The 1950s boxy silhouettes
- The daring 1960s
- The vintage-inspired 1970s
- The punk-led 1980s
- The androgynous, minimalism of the 1990s
- The urban aesthetic of the 2000s
- The 1970s-inspired 2010s
4. How the Passage of Time Changed the Wardrobe
As the years have gone on, our wardrobes have shifted & changed, reflecting the cultural & political changes that have occurred. From the bright & ecstatic looks of the 1920s to the laidback attire of the 1990s, our fashion sense has followed the fastening & dynamic times of the century. Here are four of the most influential changes in wardrobe:
- 1920s: The roaring twenties brought about an era of newfound freedom & expression. Women replaced their corsets & dresses with flapper-style dresses & bold accessories. Men’s wardrobes contained more formal clothing, like vest & trousers. Both genders embraced the look of the bob cut.
- 1930s: The styles of the thirties were defined by the Great Depression. The trend was far from bold & luxurious – women switched to plain, structured dresses with more modest colors, & men kept slim lines & modest colors. Accessories, like hats and pocket squares, became a symbol of luxury & extravagance.
- 1960s: The sixties saw a more relaxed outlook on fashion. Bright colors & bold prints were a popular look for both genders. For women, mini skirts & baby doll dresses become iconic symbols of this era, & for men shirts & trousers were the typical look.
- 1990s: The nineties were the era of grunge. Both genders adopted slightly baggy jeans, checked flannel shirts, t-tops, & combat boots. T-shirts with political & environmental messages became popular. For women, loose-fitting dresses & baby doll dresses were a must.
The gradual movement & shift in fashion sense has been strongly influenced by cultural & political structures & changes in society. From the sharply-dressed 1920s to the laid-back 1990s, our wardrobes have been an evolving reflection of the times.
The 2000s saw an influx in technology, and our wardrobes weren’t exempt from its effect. With the rise of social media, streetwear & athleisure became the standard look for many. Nowadays, Instagram & Tiktok sets the tone for popular styles & trends & it is easier than ever before to feel fashionable & stay on top of the latest trends.
The decades of the 1920s and 1960s saw fashion evolve in leaps and bounds, with wildly different trends that made a lasting mark on history. From the adventurous silhouette of the flapper dress to the mod revival of the swinging sixties, these eras taught us the joy of expression and experimentation through fashion. And that’s something that will endure for generations to come.
