In collaboration with Chums
Fashion is a reflection of cultural, social, and political changes, and British fashion has always been a vibrant tapestry of innovation and tradition. Over the past century, each decade has brought its unique styles, influenced by iconic figures and the zeitgeist of the time. Let’s take a stroll through the decades, exploring the best fashion styles for both men and women and determine which decade truly had the best fashion sense.
1920s: The Roaring Twenties
The 1920s were a time of liberation and rebellion against the constraints of the Victorian era. For women, flapper dresses with dropped waists, beaded embellishments, and shorter hemlines became the norm. Coco Chanel was a pivotal figure, popularising the little black dress and making trousers acceptable for women. For men, the 1920s introduced the Oxford bags—wide-legged men’s trousers that became a staple for the fashion-forward gentleman. The Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII) was a style icon, known for his impeccable suits and casual elegance.
1930s: The Elegant Thirties
The 1930s brought a more sophisticated and elegant approach to fashion, influenced by Hollywood glamour. Women’s fashion embraced bias-cut gowns, which accentuated the natural curves of the body, popularised by stars like Greta Garbo. Men’s fashion saw the rise of the double-breasted suit, with wide shoulders and slim waists, giving a distinguished silhouette. Fred Astaire exemplified the era’s elegance with his perfectly tailored suits and effortless style.
1940s: The War-Time Forties
The 1940s were dominated by World War II, which significantly impacted fashion. Utility clothing became the norm, with women donning tailored suits and A-line skirts, while men’s fashion was characterised by military uniforms and practical wear. Despite the austerity, figures like Katharine Hepburn continued to challenge norms with her preference for trousers. For men, the demob suit, a civilian suit given to those leaving military service, became a symbol of post-war fashion.
1950s: The Glamorous Fifties
Post-war optimism in the 1950s brought a return to glamour and femininity. Dior’s “New Look” with cinched waists and full skirts defined women’s fashion, while Audrey Hepburn became a style icon with her timeless elegance. Men’s fashion embraced the Ivy League look, with slim-fit trousers, blazers, and button-down shirts. The Teddy Boys also emerged, with their drape jackets and drainpipe trousers, adding a rebellious edge to men’s fashion.
1960s: The Swinging Sixties
The 1960s were a revolutionary decade for fashion, with London at its heart. The mini skirt, popularised by Mary Quant, symbolised the decade’s youthful energy and liberation for women. Icons like Twiggy epitomised the mod look, with bold patterns and vibrant colours. Men’s fashion saw the rise of the mod subculture, with slim-cut suits and Chelsea boots, famously worn by The Beatles. The decade was all about breaking boundaries and embracing new styles.
1970s: The Free-Spirited Seventies
The 1970s were characterised by a mix of bohemian and disco influences. For women, maxi dresses, bell-bottoms, and platform shoes became staples, with figures like Farrah Fawcett embodying the era’s style. Men’s fashion was equally bold, with flared trousers, wide collars, and colourful prints. David Bowie’s androgynous style and flamboyant stage outfits pushed the boundaries of traditional menswear, making trousers a focal point of expression.
1980s: The Bold Eighties
The 1980s were all about excess and bold statements. Women’s fashion embraced power dressing with shoulder pads, bold colours, and oversized blazers, as seen on icons like Princess Diana. Men’s fashion was equally daring, with baggy trousers, leather jackets, and vibrant colours. The New Romantic movement, influenced by bands like Duran Duran, brought a theatrical flair to both men’s and women’s fashion, celebrating individuality and creativity.
1990s: The Grunge Nineties
The 1990s saw a shift towards minimalism and casual wear. Women’s fashion embraced slip dresses, crop tops, and grunge-inspired looks popularised by Kate Moss. Men’s fashion saw the rise of baggy jeans, flannel shirts, and minimalist streetwear. The Britpop movement, with bands like Oasis, brought a laid-back, cool style to the forefront, while trousers became more relaxed and versatile.
2000s: The Eclectic Noughties
The 2000s were a time of eclectic fashion, with influences from previous decades merging to create unique styles. Women’s fashion saw the rise of low-rise jeans, cargo pants, and boho-chic, popularised by celebrities like Sienna Miller. Men’s fashion embraced skinny jeans, graphic tees, and a mix of casual and formal wear. David Beckham became a style icon, known for his ability to effortlessly blend different fashion elements.
2010s: The Digital Era
The 2010s were defined by the rise of digital influencers and fast fashion. Women’s fashion embraced athleisure, high-waisted trousers, and minimalist aesthetics, with figures like Meghan Markle influencing global trends. Men’s fashion saw a return to tailored suits, with a focus on fit and craftsmanship. The decade also saw the rise of sustainable fashion, with an emphasis on ethical production and timeless pieces.
2020s: The Present Day
The 2020s have been marked by a blend of comfort and style, influenced by the global pandemic. Women’s fashion has embraced loungewear, oversized silhouettes, and sustainable fashion, with an increasing focus on eco-friendly materials and ethical production practices. Icons like Harry Styles are redefining gender norms, with trousers becoming a versatile piece in both men’s and women’s wardrobes. The decade has seen a significant shift towards sustainability, with consumers and designers prioritising the environmental impact of their fashion choices.
Conclusion: The Best Decade for Fashion
While each decade has brought unique flair and innovation, the 1960s stand out as the best decade for fashion. The era’s influence on both men’s and women’s styles, its embrace of bold patterns, and the cultural impact of its icons continue to resonate in fashion today. From the mod suits to the mini skirts, the 1960s were a time of creativity and liberation, setting the stage for the diverse and dynamic fashion landscape we enjoy today.
What’s your favourite fashion decade?
