Fashion through the years (1920's-1990's)

Last week, we were given two tasks which is to look for information of our given alphabet (mine was K) and to find pictures of fashion through the years from 1920's to 1990's. I was absent last week so I misunderstood the task and combined both into "The K's of fashion history." *facepalm* It was so hard finding information but funnily enough I managed to find fashion related information for all the years. Despite spending a lot of time on it, I learned a lot more than I opted for.

For instance, in the late 1920’s, knitwear became fashionable in the world of fashion design, thanks to Elsa Schiaparelli. The designer’s famous trompleil “bow knot” sweaters and focus on knit sportswear which kick started her career as well as modern knitwear as we know it today.

Elsa Schiaparelli in her signature "bow sweater" | Photo credits: AG Nauta Couture

Another fact I found interesting on the 1940's was about Katharine Hepburn. She was one of the most idolized actresses of her generation and is known to be the first lady of menswear. She started to wear men’s trousers at a time when it was very uncommon to do so and insisted on wearing trousers both on and off set. It wasn’t a popular choice in her time and she alienated part of her audience for doing so, even gaining the nickname “box office poison”. Over time she became known for her fashion choices as people started to admire her for her fearlessness. Her unique style reminds me of Dave as she loves adding masculinity into her everyday looks as well.

Katherine Hepburn | Photo credits: Vanityfair.com

Also, in the 1950's after the war was over, khaki trousers were an item of clothing veterans held on to and continued to wear as civilians. The pants’ preppy style wasn't too military-ish and easily transitioned into comfortable casual wear due to its softness compared to jeans. At the same time, there was a surfeit of army surplus supplies and the pants quickly became a menswear staple among the broader public. The adoption of khakis in the 50s by notable figures such as President JFK, actor James Dean and musician Miles Davis elevated khakis into iconic status.

Clockwise: President John F. Kennedy, James Dean, Miles Davis, The Duke of Edinburg

Photo credits: The Art of Manliness

Anyway, here's a few of my favourite era's of fashion history through the years.

Photo credits from left to right: Library of Congress, Victoriana Magazine & Art Stew

One of my favourite fashion era's has to be the 1920's simply because of the Great Gatsby. I'm a huge fan of the flapper fashion with intricate fringe dresses and uber chic cloche hats. Although the 20's was a glamorous time for the rich and famous, I really wish I had the privilege to live in that fabulous era where everything was so classy and prestigious.

Photo credits from left to right: WeHeartIt & Vintage Dancer

Another era that I really like is the 50s where everything was so cheery and romantic. Everyone is dressed so fashionably comfortable and high tea ready.