Fashion from 1947-1963 Essay Example

Each generation of Americans has their own unique fashion story that has been influenced by the events of the time. Whether it was the flapper of the Roaring Twenties, or the suburban housewife of the Fifties, each decade of woman carved out their place in fashion history. From the Lost Generation to the Millennial Generation, we can see the way current events have affected the way our society clothes itself. We can see the evolution of hemlines and silhouettes, hairdos and accessories, and they can all be related back to the fears and the aspirations of society as a whole. There are so many factors that influence the way we dress. War, politics, the economy, celebrities, and social issues are all factors in determining the fashion trends of each and every American generation.

Fashion from 1947-1963

This was a time in American History when everyone was in “recovery” mode. The economy was just coming back from war time status and everything was booming. The soldiers had all come home and were using their GI bill money to buy houses in the suburbs and start families. This resulted in Americans focusing on the nuclear family as the basis for social affairs. Women were expected to be housewives and mothers. The silent generation wasn’t much for innovation, so instead of moving fashion forward, it returned somewhat to the more feminine silhouette of previous decades. Influenced by designers like Christian Dior and Cristobal Belenciaga, fashions dictated ballerina length skirts that were full and flowing. Waist lines were fitted and shoulder lines were made more rounded as a change from the boxy style that was previously favored.

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Ballerina length full skirt. Fitted waists. Rounded shoulders.

In addition to America returning to the more traditional role of wife, there was the added popularity of motherhood. This was the baby boom era. For the first time, a woman was shown on TV while pregnant.