Historical Fashion Designing: Changes from 1920 to 1970s

Fashion designing is a very fluid phenomenon. You never see the same clothing and accessories the following year, though some styles become classics and never die. Here is presented major fashion changes from the 1920 to present.

It is basically a summary of what each decade is remembered for as far as fashion is concerned. You should have fun reading this as it helps bring you back in time.

1920s-One major change during this decade is in swimsuits. Before this time they were bulkier, but now a little less fabric was being used. Simpler patterns were also used for dresses and skirts during this period in history. Of course, the 1920s is most known for its flapper dresses and style.

1930s-The beginning of this decade was the beginning of the Great Depression. Therefore, much has changed in fashion. The colors for skirts, blouses or dresses were more somber to represent darker times and cheaper fabrics such as nylon versus rayon were often used for stockings.

Men’s clothing was also very classy, but also bleak looking to match the simplicity and sadness of the times. It should be noted that another significant material change was made during this time as well-that of Lastex (more inexpensive material blend) versus Lycros.

1940s-It was considered very much illegal after 1942 to use excess fabric, accessories, or trimmings to accent an outfit. This was a rule that was strictly enforced due to wartime rationing. This restriction was not lifted until after 1947. Clothing was often homemade and made out of anything that could be found-a bed sheet, old curtain, etc.

1950s-Dior was on the scene and thus the reason for the popularity of the A-line skirts during this time. Pencils skirts also became popular during this decade. Dress was often very sexy and form fitting for both men and women during this time. This was also a time when more avant-garde styles of clothing became popular.

1960s-This is a time when clothing styles and dress was far more non-conformist than in the past. This was the beginning of the “anything goes” period which lasted for well into the 1970s.

Bell bottoms, love beads, and tie-dyed t-shirts became very popular especially during the latter portion of this decade. Skirts were typically longer during this time.

1970s-This was part of the hippie generation that was started in the mid to late 1960s. Long skirts were often worn during this time, and so were bell bottomed jeans. This decade is probably quite often attributed to the bell-bottomed and boot-cut polyester pants. It should be noted, however, that during the mid to late 1970s mini-skirts became increasingly popular.