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The Fashion Revolution of the 1910s
Introduction
The 1910s marked a pivotal time in fashion history, as the world entered a new era of style and elegance. With the end of the Edwardian era and the beginning of World War I, fashion underwent a significant transformation. Women’s clothing became more practical and comfortable, reflecting the changing roles and responsibilities of women during this period. Let’s take a closer look at the popular clothing styles of the 1910s.
The Silhouette
The early 1910s saw a departure from the previous S-shaped silhouette of the Edwardian era. The hourglass figure gave way to a more columnar shape, with a high waistline and a straight, slim-fitting bodice. This shift in silhouette was influenced by the growing women’s suffrage movement and the need for greater freedom of movement.
Corsets were still worn, but they were designed to give a more natural shape, with less emphasis on creating a tiny waist. The focus shifted to the bust and hips, with the use of padding and strategic draping to enhance these areas.
The Rise of the Hobble Skirt
One of the most distinctive trends of the 1910s was the hobble skirt. This skirt was fitted at the waist and hips but became narrower below the knees, creating a hobble effect. Women had to take smaller steps and even use a hobble skirt lifter to raise the hemline when climbing stairs.
The hobble skirt was controversial at the time, as it was seen as restrictive and impractical. Nevertheless, it became a symbol of women’s changing roles and desire for more freedom. The trend eventually faded out as the decade progressed and the world plunged into war.
Daytime Dresses
For daytime wear, women typically wore high-necked, long-sleeved dresses made of lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen. These dresses featured delicate lace or embroidery, often in a matching or contrasting color. The waistline was usually defined with a belt or sash, creating a more tailored look.
Daytime dresses were often accompanied by wide-brimmed hats or bonnets, which were adorned with feathers, ribbons, or flowers. Gloves and parasols were also popular accessories, adding to the overall elegance of the outfit.
Evening Attire
Evening wear during the 1910s was characterized by its opulence and extravagance. Women wore floor-length gowns made of luxurious fabrics such as silk, satin, and velvet. These gowns featured intricate beadwork, sequins, and lace, creating a dazzling effect.
The necklines of evening gowns varied, ranging from high collars to plunging V-necks. The sleeves were often sleeveless or short, allowing for more freedom of movement. Elaborate hairstyles and sparkling jewelry completed the glamorous look.
Men’s Fashion
Men’s fashion in the 1910s was more conservative and less prone to change compared to women’s fashion. Men typically wore tailored suits, consisting of a jacket, waistcoat, trousers, and a bowler hat. The suits were often made of wool or tweed, providing warmth and durability.
Shirts were high-collared and usually made of cotton or linen. Ties were narrow and often made of silk or satin. Men also wore detachable collars and cuffs, allowing for easier cleaning and replacement.
Accessories
Accessories played a crucial role in completing the look during the 1910s. Women adorned themselves with long necklaces, brooches, and hair accessories such as combs or tiaras. Handheld fans and lace gloves were also popular.
For men, pocket watches and walking sticks were common accessories. Hats were an essential part of men’s fashion, with styles ranging from bowler hats to straw boaters.
In Conclusion
The fashion of the 1910s was a reflection of the changing times and societal shifts of the era. Women’s clothing became more practical and comfortable, while men’s fashion remained relatively unchanged. The 1910s marked the beginning of a new chapter in fashion history, paving the way for the revolutionary styles of the following decades.