by The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
Fashion is constantly changing, with new styles and trends emerging all the time. However, some fashion trends have stood the test of time and keep coming back time and time again. Here are some of these enduring trends and their fascinating stories.
Puff sleeves are a classic fashion trend that has been around for centuries. These sleeves first rose to prominence in the 14th and 15th centuries, when they were worn by royalty and the wealthy elite as a symbol of status and wealth. During the Victorian era, puff sleeves became even more popular on dresses and blouses. Sleeves were often made of delicate, sheer fabrics like lace and chiffon, and were decorated with intricate embroidery and beading. In the 1950s, puff sleeves returned in the form of the iconic “New Look” silhouette popularized by Christian Dior. Today, puff sleeves continue to be a popular fashion trend, with their romantic, feminine silhouette adding a touch of vintage charm to any outfit.
Bright colors have also been a fashion staple for centuries. In the past, fashion was often associated with neutral colors like black, white and beige. This was especially true in the Victorian era, when clothing was seen as a symbol of propriety and modesty. Bright colors were often considered garish and were worn only by the lower classes. However, the 1960s saw the rise of the “Mod” movement, where bright, bold colors were embraced as a means of rebelling against the conservative values of the previous generation. Designers like Mary Quant and Courrèges made a name for themselves by incorporating bright colors into their collections, and the trend quickly spread through the fashion world. Today, bright colors are a fashion staple and are embraced by designers and fashion enthusiasts. From neon green to electric blue, there’s no limit to the bold, vibrant hues you can find on the runway and on the streets.
High heels are another enduring fashion trend with a rich and fascinating history. The origins of high heels date back to the 10th century, when they were worn by Persian warriors on horseback as a means of securing their feet in stirrups. Heels also had a practical function for warriors, as they helped distribute the weight of their armor more evenly across their body. It was not until the 16th century that high heels became associated with fashion and femininity. At that time, high heels were worn by both men and women, with the more extravagant and elaborate designs reserved for the wealthy elite. Heels were often decorated with intricate embroidery and beading and were made of the finest materials like silk and velvet. In the 18th century, high heels became a symbol of wealth and status, with the tallest and most elaborate designs reserved for the aristocracy. However, the French Revolution of 1789 put an end to this trend, with the population rejecting the extravagance of the aristocracy and adopting more practical and comfortable footwear. It wasn’t until the 1950s that high heels made a comeback in the fashion world. Heels of this era were often strapless and cone-shaped, and were made of materials like patent leather and PVC. The popularity of high heels continued to grow throughout the 20th century and they remain a staple of women’s fashion to this day.
All in all, these fashion trends may have been around for centuries, but they are still going strong. From the royal courts of the 15th century to the catwalks of today, these trends have stood the test of time and continue to add a touch of glamor and sophistication to any outfit. One thing is certain: these trends are here to stay, so why not embrace them and add a touch of history to your wardrobe?
