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100 Years of Controversial Fashion | Glamour

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Controversial Fashion

Take a look back at the last hundred years of controversial fashion, from the hobble skirts of the 1910s and Josephine Baker’s banana skirt in the 1920s, to the bullet bras of the 1950s and the miniskirts of the 1960s, here’s how boundary-pushing fashion transformed over the last century.

How did fashion reflect the tension between individualism and societal expectations in the 1980s?

Over the past century, fashion has continued to be a source of great controversy and cultural critique. As society has evolved, so has fashion, and with it, the debates about its role and impact on our world. From the emergence of the flapper in the 1920s to the rise of streetwear in the 21st century, fashion has always been intertwined with cultural, political, and social movements. And as we mark 100 years of controversial fashion, we reflect on the evolution of clothing and its complicated history.

In the 1920s, women’s fashion took a bold turn with the introduction of the flapper dress, a style characterized by its shorter hemlines, loose shapes, and dropped waistlines. This sartorial revolution challenged traditional gender roles and represented a newfound freedom for women, who were empowered by the ability to express themselves beyond the confines of conservative Victorian-era styles. However, the flapper dress also received backlash, as some argued that it was too revealing and represented the breakdown of morality.

In the 1950s, the rise of the “teenager” and the “greaser” subculture resulted in the adoption of leather jackets, jeans, and Elvis Presley-inspired pompadours. This look challenged the status quo and sparked debates about the impact of youth culture on society. The ’60s witnessed a more radical stance within fashion, as hippies rejected consumerism and advocated for peace, love, and anti-establishment values. Fashion became synonymous with political statements, as the counterculture used clothing to convey their beliefs.

As the ’70s approached, fashion took a more androgynous turn, with unisex clothing and gender-bending styles that challenged the binary gender system. But the excess of the ’80s challenged that trend, as materialism and conspicuous consumption went mainstream. The rise of power dressing, shoulder pads, and bold prints was seen as a rejection of feminist values, and highlighted the tension between individualism and societal expectations.

In the ’90s, grunge fashion redefined the idea of fashion as a projection of wealth and status. Clothing became more informal, and alternative bands such as Nirvana and Pearl Jam popularized a look characterized by flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and Dr. Martens. But the ’90s also saw the rise of the supermodel, which reinforced societal beauty standards and perpetuated the idea of the “perfect body.”

In the 21st century, fashion continues to be a source of controversy, as streetwear has become a cultural force, challenging traditional luxury brands. Streetwear represents a democratization of fashion, as urban youth have used clothing to express their identities and subvert dominant narratives. However, some have criticized streetwear for its appropriation of Black and hip-hop culture, highlighting the intersection between fashion and cultural imperialism.

As we look back on 100 years of controversial fashion, we see a complex interplay between culture, style, and social commentary. Fashion has been a mirror to society, reflecting our values, fears, and aspirations. From the flapper dress to streetwear, fashion has always pushed boundaries and redefined what it means to be fashionable. At the same time, fashion has also been subject to criticism, as it reflects and perpetuates societal norms and stereotypes. Ultimately, fashion has both reflected and shaped our world, and will continue to spark controversy and cultural critique for years to come.