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History of the Little Black Dress

A HISTORY OF THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS The Little Black Dress is viewed in the fashion world as a long-lasting, stylish and versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down for daytime or evening wear. Although it's been a wardrobe staple for nearly 100 years, there have been key developments that have shaped each decade of the LBD. Pre 1920s During the 19th century, wearing black was accepted as a symbol of mourning and respect to the dead. It was only until artist John Singer Sargent painted the portrait 'Madame X' that wearing a black dress was first considered as fashionable. This picture caused a great deal of controversy because of its 'sexiness.' 1920s The first 'little black dress' was designed by Coco Chanel. Published in the 1926 edition of Vogue, it was referred to as 'Ford' because of its simplicity in style and potential for long-lasting success; just the beginning of its career as a timeless piece of fashion, It became the epitome of liberation, freeing women from the corset and providing the gift of time due to its easiness to change into. 1930s The little black flapper dress made its mark in the 1930s, taking the fashion industry by storm with its beaded decoration and loose fitting design. Famous for association with jazz and 'rebellious' behaviour, it's understandable why the flapper became such a classic. 1940s During the war, the Little Black Dress also became an aspect of rationing. Women found it easy to accessorise with and embraced it for its effortlessness, making it the ideal item to wear for any occasion. 1950s As the allure of Hollywood began to sweep the nation, changes started to appear to the Little Black Dress. The 1950's saw the LBD transform from a conservative piece to a sexy, edgy dress; perfect for onscreen glamour! Dior's 'New Look' collection, which featured full-skirted shapes, became a really popular trend. It was viewed by many as a statement of hope after the war which offered people a welcome contrast to the 'make do and mend' attitude present throughout the war. 1960s The regeneration of the LBD carried on into the 60s. There were two distinct types of styles: whilst the older generation preferred a more conservative style of dress, the younger generation favoured shorter lengths, slits up the leg and netted detailing. Mary Quant was paramount to this change in fashions - she encouraged women to dress for fun, viewing fashion as a game. She coined the 'mini-skirt' which was revolutionary for the disappearing length of the LBD. The LBD style of the 60s looked back to the 20s to celebrate the grandiose, flapper appeal. The most iconic LBD of the 60s has to be Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's. 1970s Building on the embellishments of 60s fashion, the 70s saw more sheer fabrics, more lace and more variation with LBD styles. An aspect of 1970s fashion that remains iconic to its day is the punk rock era. Clothes became an expression of attitude - and the LBD was no exception. Dresses were ripped, cut, safety pinned for effect and sometimes made from PVC, worn with fishnet tights. 1980s The 80s celebrated the LBD by not only crowning the peplum trend which is so popular today, but also encouraged elaborate, broad shoulders and embellishments, such as the sequins featured in this picture. 1990s Grunge culture of the 90s brought fashion right back to basics as simplicity took over from the elaborate 80s. The LBD was worn with sandals and combat boots with a distinct 'Spice Girl' feel - the LBD was simple, tight fitting and usually quite short. 2000s In the mid noughties the LBD celebrated its 80th birthday in style, showing off its eternal space in the fashion sphere. Bandeau and babydoll party dresses were all popular LBD styles last decade. 2010s Today mesh detailing and the bodycon fit are fashionable LBD styles, harnessing a definite 80s feel. The 80s influence can clearly been seen on the design with velvet panelling and body-sculpting shape.

History of the Little Black Dress

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A history of the little black from Kaleidoscope

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Kaleidoscope

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Lifestyle
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