Research Paper

Elizabeth Bryan 

Deanna Tenorio 

English  

10 February 2024 

The History of Fashion 

Fashion is not just about clothes or the way we look, it is an expression of self. Fashion is culture, community, values, and history. Throughout history fashion has undergone various significant transformations influenced by designers, time periods, artistic movements and so many other factors. “Fashion is defined as the act or process of making or shaping”. (Font,1). Fashion has been around since the beginning of time from when the cavemen wore clothing made from animal skin to the highly developed fashion we have today. Fashion has always played an important signifier in the defining of social class, gender and identity. Fasion is arguably the most personal form of art that tells everyone who you are and is culturally defining. Every time period plays a significant role in understanding how we got where we are today in the industry, and it is important to know the origin.  

Studies suggest that for an estimated 200,000 to 300,000 humans have been wearing clothing. There were cultural, social, and even spiritual reasons why clothing has been a necessity in addition to being for protection. Early people are known to have worn intricate clothing during ceremonies, rituals, and meetings based off artifacts and cave paintings which demonstrates the importance of clothing in early life. Prehistoric humans also used natural materials such as furs and plant material for warmth during the cold.  

I want to now jump forward to the turning time period of the renaissance, which was the 14th to the 17th century. This time period was very moving within the fashion industry the ideas of social class and gender roles really came into play. “Thus, historians must bear in mind intersecting and overlapping yet often contradictory values and ideals related to gender, rank, citizenship, profession, age, courtliness, and sanctity, among other categories of identity, when evaluating fashion paradigms” (McCall, 2). This is very important to consider when thinking about the difference in fashion during this time verses what we have come to understand today's fashion. This time of artistic innovation and cultural rebirth in Europe transformed the course of fashion to this day. Fashion during the renaissance was heavily influenced by the upbringing of rulers and powerful nobles. The garments warn my men and women were juristically different. Depending on the social class, men wore puffy-shouldered shirts with capes and wide-hipped knee-length pants to make them appear bigger and stronger. Women typically wore long flowy dresses with high waists and puffy sleeves. A bell-shaped, wide-legged hoop skirt worn beneath an outer gown, was one of the most famous pieces of Renaissance women's clothing known today. Women often wear the underskirts to make the dress appear more voluptuous. This was worn to look more elegant, of course the lower-class citizens would wear less intricate clothing and dresses. I also think it is important to take into consideration that earlier style was mostly generated from Italy, but during the time of the renaissance it was Spain who became the most influential and prominent in fashion.  

Going back to the Victorian era where all the ideals discovered in the 1960’s and 70’s were not even an afterthought. This area was described as very anti women and conservative in a way that has not been seen since. Women's fashion during the Victorian era, which lasted from the early 19th to the early 20th century, was defined by a strict code of propriety and modesty. The social values of the day demanded that women's bodies are to be covered to the point where any trace of immodesty or sensuality was hidden. This devotion to modesty reflected the Victorian ideal of women as pure, virtuous, and morally upright, and it was firmly ingrained in the moral standards and social values of the era. The majority of dresses were made with floor-length skirts, long sleeves, and high necklines that fully covered a woman's whole body from neck to ankle. The corset was essential in creating the desired profile since it supported the bust while tightening the waist and highlighting the figure. The exaggerated hourglass shape, which embodied ideas of refinement and grace, came to represent Victorian femininity. The fact that women's clothing from this era was frequently made of thick, opaque materials like velvet, satin, and silk added to the Victorian apparel's ability to conceal. Petticoats and underskirts were frequently worn in layers to give skirts volume and preserve modesty by hiding any leg visibility. Furthermore, garments such as gloves, shawls, and parasols were regularly used as attractive pieces and protective clothing for ladies against weather exposure. Victorian fashion's rigorous attention to modesty mirrored the ideas about gender roles and propriety in addition to moral and social reasons. Clothing for women was designed to promote the roles of domesticity and submissiveness that were expected of them. “At a given time, fashion dictates certain ideal forms and proportions, but still encourages creative self-expression within the spectrum of desirable appearance” (Font, 1). It is important we understand how fashion is developed into a form of art that is created by everyone to express themselves however they choose. 

I want to jump our fashion timeline to the 1910s because it was a transitional period for industry and society. This decade saw social, political, and technological changes that influenced the fashion industry reflecting gender roles, class distinguishing, and the global issue of World War 1. The start of the decade saw voluptuous silhouettes for both men and women, still relevant from the Edwardian era. The S-shaped silhouette, with its tight corseted waists, and long, flowing skirts, came to characterize women's fashion. During this time, women's clothing also included a lot of lace, high necklines, and puffy sleeves. Because of the look, materials like velvet, silk, and satin were often preferred. Women entered the workforce in the 1940s to take up crucial positions in the factories and other industries that were left empty by the males who had enlisted in the armed forces for World War II. Since women who worked manual labor had to prioritize usefulness and practicality above all else, this change in societal norms had a profound impact on fashion. The "women wear pants" movement had its start when women decided to embrace trousers due to their desire for comfort and mobility in their daily work. The adoption of pants by women working in factories not only transformed their everyday attire but also challenged societal norms regarding gender and dress. It represented a transformation from traditional femininity and embraced the emergence of a more independent and dominating female identity. This highlighted the change in women's identity during a time of national crisis, showcasing their ability to contribute to the war effort in previously male-dominated field. 

Contrary to the reserved and base movement of the 1950’s, the 1960’s and 70’s were defined by the counterculture movement and reversal of the previous generation. A primary example of this was the Hippie movement and the usage of vibrant colors and more loose-fitting clothing such as blouses, bell bottoms, and jeans, comparative to button ups and slacks which was considered outdated and boring. The movement also pioneered the usage of showing more skin and being what they considered free of societal norms and pressures. These fashion movements were even considered partly responsible for the increase in feministic ideals and women's rights movements. Displaying a deeper perspective into how fashion truly affects society and the future of what is viewed as normal. Fashion norms of the time are even coming back in traditional ways and new ways such as leggings and crop tops. The more dated and exclusive fashions of the past are remarkably contrasted with the vivid diversity, personality, and growth that is modern fashion. Today's fashion scene is distinguished by its flexibility and accessibility, in contrast to earlier times when it was frequently governed by strict social norms and exclusive designers. Fashion, which is no longer exclusively controlled by a small number of people but is instead influenced by a wide range of sources, including social media trends and street style. Because of this, people now have the ability to express who they are via their wardrobe, creating a diverse range of looks and trends that honor individuality and self-expression. Furthermore, the rise of fast fashion and online shopping has transformed the way people consume and interact with fashion and companies. With the click of a button, consumers can access a large variety of clothing options from around the globe. This allows for greater experimentation and exploration of different styles. This accessibility has also led to a faster turnover of trends, with new styles emerging at a rapid pace and old ones being quickly replaced. As a result, fashion has become more disposable, reflecting the fast-paced nature of modern life. Technology has also played a significant part in shaping fashion today, from the way clothes are designed and produced to how they are marketed and consumed. Advancements in digital design software and manufacturing techniques have revolutionized the production process. This allows for greater efficiency and customization. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have made for an influential tool for fashion influencers and brands to market with consumers and showcase their latest items. Today fashion, like everything else, has developed so much from how it used to be and is expanding every day. Whether are not an individual takes interest into the fashion industry, marketing schemes are in everyday life whether you are looking at a billboard, scrolling on social media, or even being influenced by the kids at school. The fashion industry has one of the most compelling marketing concepts due to the fact they can use A list celebrities to influence the designs and styles. Though decades before the 21st century there was no way to market fashion like the way we do now.  

In conclusion, it is clear by following the history of fashion from the past to the present that it has seen tremendous changes that have reflected the social, cultural, and technical changes of each age. Fashion has changed over time with shifting cultural ideals, economic situations, and advancements in technology. From the clothing of ancient civilizations to the strict dress standards of the Victorian era and the liberalization of styles in the 20th century. The history of fashion tells the tale of human development, and expression rather than just listing fashion trends. It has functioned as a channel of communication, a social status indicator, and a representation of both personal and societal identity. Throughout history, politics, economics, and cultural movements have all influenced fashion, which has shaped and reflected the goals and ideals of every community. Fashion, which reflects the complexity of our world, is at a crossroads right now. On the one hand, because of the democratization of fashion, the growth of fast fashion, and the easiness of online buying, it is more of a variety, inclusive, and accessible than it has ever been. Individuals from diverse backgrounds engage in and add to the fashion conversation which showcases their uniqueness. Concerns over the actual cost of fashion and its effects on people and the environment have been spoken about. Because of this, there is a rising push for ethical and sustainable fashion, with both businesses and customers wanting openness, and responsible supply chain methods. Furthermore, technology is having a bigger and bigger impact on fashion these days. Everything from the creation and marketing of clothing to how it is worn. Social media and digital platforms have completely changed how consumers interact with fashion by enabling more immediate, connected, and interactive experiences. Fashion bloggers and influencers have a significant impact on consumer trends, and the limits of the business are being redefined by virtual fashion shows and digital fashion experiences. Lastly, the history of fashion is a symbolization of enduring power of human creativity and innovation. While fashion has evolved dramatically over the centuries, its fundamental purpose remains unchanged. To express identity, communicate values, and reflect the spirit of the times. As we are in a new era in fashion, it is important that we confront the challenges and opportunities ahead, ensuring that fashion continues to inspire, empower, and unite us in the years to come. 

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