Fashion terminology is an intriguing reflection of the cultural zeitgeist. Each age has its own distinct lexicon that encapsulates the core of the current trends. Let's go across time and explore some iconic fashion words from different decades:
1920s: The Roaring Twenties marked a significant change toward independence and self-expression. Here are a few crucial terms:
Flappers, who represented the era's independent young ladies, wore short, loose dresses, bobbed haircuts, and maintained a carefree attitude.
Cloche Hat: A bell-shaped hat that became a symbol of the flapper movement, sometimes embellished with feathers or beads.
Spats: Detachable cloth coverings worn over shoes, popular with both men and women.
1950s: The postwar era marked a return to femininity and uniformity. Fashion lingo reflects this shift:
The New Look, introduced by Christian Dior in 1947, featured nipped waists, long skirts, and a voluptuous form.
Kitten Heels: These short, slim heels provide a more practical and feminine alternative to stilettos.
Poodle Skirt: A full, circular skirt popular among teenagers, typically fashioned of felt or wool and imitating a poodle's fluffy back end.
1960s: The swinging sixties brought in a rebellion against traditional norms, as evidenced by flamboyant fashion choices and vocabulary.
Mod stands for "modernist," and refers to the sleek, geometric forms popularized by designers such as Mary Quant.
A miniskirt is a skirt with a hemline that is considerably above the knee, and it represents women's youthful rebellion and liberation.
Go-Go Boots: Knee-high boots with a hefty heel, commonly worn with miniskirts to get a mod effect.
The 1970s: Celebrated individuality and self-expression, with an emphasis on comfort and casual fashions. Fashion lingo reflected this.
Boho: A combination of bohemian and hippie fashions, with flowing maxi dresses, peasant blouses, and fringed accessories.
Platform Shoes: Shoes with a thick, raised sole that provide comfort and a distinctive silhouette.
Disco Chic: Sequins, glitter, and form-fitting apparel dominated the dance floor, with phrases like "platforms" and "jumpsuits" coming to define the era.
The 1980s: Were an age of extravagance, with a concentration on vibrant colours, loud patterns, and power dressing. Fashion lingo kept up:
Power Suit: A customized pantsuit for ladies that represents feminine empowerment and professional objectives.
Leggings: are tight-fitting pants that were originally designed for exercising but became popular in the 1980s.
Shoulder pads: Exaggerated shoulder pads established the power suit style and became a trademark of 80s fashion.
The 1990s: Grunge and minimalism dominated fashion in the 1990s, with terminology reflecting a more laid-back and informal vibe:
Grunge: This anti-fashion movement favoured tattered jeans, flannel shirts, and Doc Martens boots.
Slip Dress: A basic, bias-cut dress that was traditionally worn as underwear but became popular as outerwear in the 1990s.
Choker: A tight necklace worn around the neck, favoured by celebrities such as Winona Ryder.
2000s and Beyond: The fashion industry is fast evolving in the internet age. Here are a few recent trends:
Athleisure: is a combination of athletic and leisurewear that blurs the distinction between gym gear and everyday clothing.
Sustainable fashion: is a developing trend that emphasizes ethically manufactured and environmentally sustainable clothes.
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