Fashion Throwback
Let’s go down memory lane and reminisce on old-school fashion trends.
These are the fashion trends that some of us grew up on or we might've seen in an old movie or two. They defined their eras and can tell us a thing or two about the way people interacted with each other and outfits.
Tank Tops - This style became popular in the 1990s. Before this era, men and women were rarely seen wearing outfits that showed their arms to the public. However, as folks in the Western world became less conservative, tank tops became a popular, trendy outfit choice usually paired with bootleg jeans.
2. Low-rise Jeans - This takes me back to high school parties when we all wore jeans with tank tops and chunky belts. Interestingly, they were created with teenagers in mind. They became popular in the ’60s and were worn mainly by rock stars. It fast became a major feature in the 70’s disco music attire. However, they became even more popular in 1990 when Alexander McQueen featured them on his runway show.
3. Halter Tops - I wish I had my childhood throwback pictures to show you the beautiful yellow halter top I owned. I was proud to wear that top to every birthday party I was invited to. Its rise in popularity coincided with the rise of feminism and women’s rights movements in the ‘60s.
4. Bedazzled Jeans - I’ve never been a fan of these jeans but many people seem to like them and consider them as a form of creative expression.
5. Dresses over Jeans - This trend was a hit in 2002. The jeans were often paired with a silky fit and flare tops. Interestingly, this trend is gradually coming back but with a more modern feel.
6. Wide Belts - This belt style was a staple back in the day, and it still is. It became a fashion accessory in the ‘30s. Back then, you can find women with slimmer waists using them to make their dresses look even better. Today, you can literally wear it over a dress, tank top, shirt over jeans, and heels.They came in shiny plastic options, woven patterns, and everything in between.
7. Tube Tops - This trend became popular in 1971, but it’s the result of a manufacturing mistake. This trend went out of style for a bit and came back all in the ‘90s.
8. Legging Pants - Leggings became part of fashion in ‘60. They were originally worn by women under crinolines in the mid 19th century. Leggings were the universal comfy, booty-hugging bottoms to wear with everything. Back in the day, they were mostly paired with large belts, slip-on high heels, or ballet flats. The shorter lengths were popular but as trends evolved, they became less fashionable. Today, people wear leggings for different occasions and purposes.
9. Tiered Miniskirts - The tiered miniskirt was often worn with a camisole or white tank top, which made you feel like the coolest kid on the block.
10. Cropped Cardigans - This design was inspired by the knitted wool waistcoat that British officers wore during wartimes. Coco Chanel made cardigans popular for women because she hated how tight-necked male sweaters messed up her hair when she pulled them over her head.
It’s so interesting to see how culture and society impacts the design and trendiness of outfits from time to time. With that in mind, I believe it’s important to educate ourselves about what we wear. Growing up, I wore a lot of tank tops, low-rise jeans, and leggings.
What about you? What were your outfits of choice when you were younger?