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As the decades pass, fashion fads are often characterized by politics, popular movies, music and famous celebrities. Designers also dictate trends by changing styles often, allowing themselves and clothing manufacturers to keep making money off of our strong desire to be fashionable and trendy. We thought it would be fun to look back and remember how we used to dress for fashion.
1950s Styles.
 The 50's marked the era of conservatism. After the end of WWII, families flourished and the "baby boomers" were born. Women's small waists were often the result of a corset or cinch belt, worn with dresses or knee-length skirts. High heels or saddle shoes were the popular choices for footwear.
Poodle skirts and ponytails dominated, with designer Bill Blass Jeans for a more casual, practical style. Accessories included the unique cat-eye glasses, sometimes worn with a chain.
Men looked clean-cut, a-la Jimmy Dean, wearing flat top and crew cut styles that were very short and easy to care for. Gray flannel suits dominated the workplace and slacks were often worn for casual, everyday events.
1960s Fashion Fads.
The 60's began the "groovy" time when the boomers were growing up and finding their own style.
In the beginning of the decade women were wearing knee-length dresses leftover from the 1950s. Later on, mini-skirts, hot pants and go-go boots showed a generation breaking away from their conservative parents. Bouffant hairstyles ruled, with hair accessories for adornment.
Men still enjoyed crew cuts but lost the bland, basic colors for brighter, eye-catching styles. Casual shirts were plaid, button down and polyester suits and pants were appropriate for the workplace.
"Flower Power" and "Free Love" were all the rage when the 1969 Woodstock "Summer of Love" concert took place. Bell-bottoms became a hot fad. Beaded jewelry was the must-have accessory to show individuality.
1970s Decade.
The 70's marked a freer, fun-loving society when the women's movement prompted them to burn their bras, sparking true liberation. Tube tops were comfortable and sexy while mini-skirts and hot pants allowed more show of leg.
Long, flowing dresses and skirts with feminine, floral prints were the style for those not yet ready to join the others. Colorful, tie-dyed t-shirts became popular fads for both women and men. Colorful, crocheted ponchos and satin jackets provided style and warmth.
Hairstyles were feathered, thanks to Farrah Fawcett who set the trend for long layers and lots of fluff. Not only did women cut their hair to be like her, they wanted to be blonde. Brunettes began adding highlights to give themselves just the right touch of blonde.
Corduroy and denim fabrics were a popular choice for men, available in pants, suits and blazers. Along with disco music, the movie "Saturday Night Fever" brought high-waited suit pants and leisure suits.
1980s History.
 What can be said about the 80's fads? From hair to jewelry to shoulder pads, it's big everything. Along with the long, teased hairstyles, makeup became much bolder. Besides the somewhat "scary" factor, this decade sums up some fun music and styles that we'd rather forget.
1980's fashions for women were primarily long tops or sweaters worn over leggings or tights. Influenced by the movie "Flashdance," off-the shoulder styles were seen on just about everyone. Legwarmers looked not only sporty, but stylish as well.
Mini-skirts never lost their appeal and the 80s were no different. Denim minis in various colors worn with colorful high-heeled shoes were popular with the younger crowd. Jelly shoes were cheap and provided a more casual look.
Spandex was introduced to the mainstream and was often mixed with other fabrics. Denim included stonewashed jeans, ripped and with holes for the hip crowd. Parachute pants were popular for men and boys and allowed comfort and freedom of movement. |
