Fashion is as timeless as it is ever-evolving, with fresh faces and explosive trends popping up each and every day. Nowhere is this diversity of style more evident than in fashion icons, who have left their own unique mark on the world throughout the decades. From Coco Chanel to Rihanna, let’s dive into some of the most inspiring trendsetters that have turned fashion into a true art form.
1. Icons that Changed the Face of Fashion
Designers, models, and personalities have walked the magenta carpets for decades. They are known for their style and influence. But, the most memorable icons in fashion aren’t always the people. They are the classic designs that have withstood the test of time and become iconic symbols of the industry:
- The little black dress. Coco Chanel’s 1924 design revolutionised women’s fashion by eliminating layers of fabric and lace. This outfit was so versatile it could take a wearer from day to night in just a few minutes. Easy to accessorise, the little black dress is still a popular staple in wardrobes today.
- Levi’s 501 Jeans. These jeans were usually worn by labourers in the late 1800s. Today, they are a fashion favourite, worn by models and stars alike. Their rise in popularity has been attributed to their timeless style and comfort.
- Ankle Boots. These stylish shoes originate from the Cuban “Botines” style. They are incredibly versatile and have become a universal favourite, featured on runways around the world. Their chic, modern accessorizing has made them a go-to for everyday fashion.
The Birkin Bag. This bag was designed in 1984 by Jenna Birkin. Its sleek, sophisticated design has made it the “it” bag to own. Celebrities and influencers alike carry it around to signify their status of success. That is why it has been called the “holy grail” of fashion!
Any fashion lover can appreciate these timeless designs and the impact they have had on the industry. They will go down in history as the most iconic pieces of fashion apparel ever created.
2. An Ode to Style Icons of the Past
From Brigitte Bardot to Queen Elizabeth II, the icons of fashion style from the past remain as captivating and admired now as they did when they first graced the public eye.
- Brigitte Bardot – She was a French actress, singer, and fashion model who epitomized the 1950s and 1960s glamorous style. Her hairstyles and makeup routines were the epitome of classic beauty looks. She still continues to influence the modern fashion of today with her style.
- Audrey Hepburn – Hepburn’s iconic style was showcased in the movies she starred in, such as Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Sabrina, with her Audrey look known for her black and white clothes, simple toppers, and hats.
- Haile Selassie – The Ethiopian Emperor who reigned from 1930 to 1974 had a great influence on the fashion industry. His fascination with military dress code led to the adoption of the trench coat, white gloves, and peaked caps.
- Queen Elizabeth II – A fashion icon for over six decades, Queen Elizabeth II is one of the most recognizable people in the world. Her timeless look includes bright colors, hats, and bold patterns. She is praised for her loyalty to British design and her modern take on classic fashion styles.
Over the years, these style icons’ looks have become some of the most recognizable fashion staples. Brigitte Bardot’s hairstyle, Audrey Hepburn’s classic little black dress, Haile Selassie’s trench coat, and Queen Elizabeth II’s glamourous wardrobe have all inspired modern fashionistas. Their style and graceable poise makes them timeless icons in the fashion world.
3. Empowering Today’s Fashion Revolution
Fashion is constantly evolving as technology and creativity collide. In modern society, anyone at any age can participate in fashion revolution and influence today’s trends. Here are some of the popular ways to contribute to this growing movement.
- Art Expression: Clothing can be used as a form of self-expression for any individual. Wearing something that is unique and personalized can show one’s true personality through art.
- Supporting Local: Shopping local and supporting independent designers can help to create a sustainable and ethical fashion industry. Participating in the fashion revolution means avoiding fast fashion and supporting small businesses to reduce the negative environmental and labor effects.
- Sustainable Shopping: Making responsible decisions when it comes to fashion is the most beneficial for both individuals and the environment. Shopping secondhand, revamping older pieces or buying pieces that are pre-loved are several ways to be sustainable with fashion.
- Hacking the Closet: With creativity and a little imagination, people can turn their closets into their own personal fashion experience. Reusing, restructuring and recreating existing pieces can be both fun and budget friendly.
The fashion revolution of today is empowering people in more ways than one. It’s not just about supporting ethical designers but also having a little fun and becoming creative in the process. Rather than throw away an item, why not restyle it and give it new life? A creative mindset is all that’s needed to contribute to today’s fashion revolution.
It’s never too late to join the revolution! Supporting the growth of sustainable fashion and creating pieces of art out of your personal creations is a great way to get involved. The fashion revolution sparks creativity, encourages ethical practices and are friendly to the environment.
4. The Creative Power of Decades of Inspiration
Decades are significant markers of time, and we can gain inspiration from their creative power. Looking back through the years, great ideas brought to fruition by stellar minds have inspired further innovation for so many of us.
First, consider the elegance of jazz music. The freedom of joy was perfected throughout the 1940s and ‘50s with Miles Davis and Louis Armstrong. It’s a style of music that still inspires young minds to find soulful expression in melody.
Then, of course, come the countless technological advancements; so many that paved the way for so much creativity beyond the decade. From the ’60s to the ’70s inventions such as the world’s first home computers, cellphones, and the Xerox machine created a world of productivity and accelerated creativity.
- The 1980s boosted creativity with the introduction of CAD software and the launch of the first home video game console.
- The 1990s brought with it the world’s first web browser which opened up a world of creative connection.
- From the 2000s to the present day, social media has been an incredible platform for creativity and innovation; from Instagram and Pinterest to YouTube, billions of people can now create, share, and inspire each other.
Looking back to the past, and present, is a fantastic way to let our minds open to fresh sources of inspiration. At the same time remind us of the incredible importance of innovation. Decades of creative power provide us with the opportunity to both learn from and build upon past successes.
From the classic screen sirens of the 1920s who set the style standard, to the modern stars of today who constantly redefine fashion trends, fashion icons provide endless inspiration that will live on for generations to come. They remind us that fashion is ever-evolving and will continue to be exciting for years to come.