Fashion History – 1930s

Sparkling gowns, matching costumes, costume jewellery, hats and veils…

Fashion in the 1930s was very different from that of the previous decade. The biggest changes were related to the economic crisis in 1929, the biggest crisis of the 20th century, which also had a huge impact on the world of fashion. Women began to wear more modest outfits. Natural materials were abandoned in favor of much cheaper, artificial fabrics. It was at this time that nylon and tights appeared, which became the real hit of the decade.

Fashion minimalism

The modernism prevailing in the 1930s had a huge impact on the forms of women’s clothing. In fashion, as in architecture, minimalism, functionality and simplicity were appreciated. It was believed that clothes should not only be pretty, but also practical. The outfit was not supposed to disturb, on the contrary, it was supposed to facilitate everyday activities.

On a daily basis, women usually wore a set consisting of an elegant blouse, a sweater and a knee-length skirt. To give the styling a more feminine character, they emphasized the figure with a belt at waist height in narrow skirts, coats or high-waisted trousers.

The return of femininity!

Gradually, the flapper look cult, which was popular in the 1920s, began to be abandoned. Women no longer wanted to be tomboys, but mysterious femme fatales. There was a return to femininity. The female silhouette became more and more sensual thanks to the use of various types of materials in clothes. Transparents and lace, waisted jackets and perfectly fitted dresses, emphasizing the emancipation of women, became fashionable during this period. Even fur, which until now was not accepted, appeared in the women’s wardrobe. Among the colors triumphed powder pink.

During grand and solemn galas or banquets, long dresses, perfectly fitted at the waist and flared downwards, reigned supreme. On top, women put on fur shawls, and small trunks and clutch bags appeared in their hands. Her hair was styled in perfect waves, her lips were emphasized with lipstick in a bold color.

Sportswear, including swimwear, was increasingly popular. Two-piece outfits that revealed the waist began to appear. They were made of very flexible fabrics, thanks to which they fit perfectly to the body and emphasized the female figure.

Which trend from the 1930s is still present in your wardrobe?