Fashion has a very long history. It began somewhere around Ancient Times, and has led to important inventions and evolved century after century until the present day.
The 20th century has seen, undoubtedly, the most radical evolution of fashion from one decade to the next. It’s during that time that the world’s greatest designers and big fashion houses saw the day, releasing countless iconic pieces and sparking trends to which fashion historians and professionals refer most today. With the rise of globalization, technology, social media, and new designers, the 21th century has also brought a rapid evolution in the fashion industry.
All of the time periods are worth studying for anyone interested in fashion. However, in this article, we are going to cover the relatively recent fashion history from the 1900s until the present day. We will explain briefly what were the predominant styles of each decade, how they were born, and what were the major cultural movements and designers to popularize them. We hope this piece provides you with a comprehensive overview of the most important things you have to retain from the history of fashion, as this is a must-know for anyone who wants to work in this field. So, without further ado, let’s delve into the fascinating history of fashion through the decades.
Fashion isn’t just about clothes; it’s a way of expressing personality, creativity, and confidence. For decades, certain style icons have shaped the world of fashion, teaching us lessons that stand the test of time. From Audrey Hepburn’s elegant simplicity to Rihanna’s bold, trend-setting looks, these legends have left lasting marks on how we dress today. Whether you’re revamping your wardrobe or looking for a sprinkle of inspiration, here are some timeless fashion lessons from these iconic style figures.
1.(1929–1993) Audrey Hepburn: Less is More
Audrey Hepburn, the star of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, is known for her minimalistic and elegant fashion choices. Hepburn’s style is the epitome of “less is more,” proving that simplicity can be incredibly chic. One of her most iconic looks is the little black dress, paired with pearls, from her role as Holly Golightly.
Fashion Lesson:
Keep it simple but classy. A little black dress, well-fitted jeans, or a tailored blazer can be the foundation of an effortlessly chic look. Focus on quality over quantity, and invest in timeless pieces that never go out of style.
How to Wear It Today:
Channel your inner Hepburn with a sleek black dress, understated jewelry, and minimal makeup. Add a touch of elegance with a pair of ballet flats or pointed heels. Less is more, and simplicity can speak volumes.
(1883–1971) Coco Chanel: Classic Never Goes Out of Style
Coco Chanel revolutionized women’s fashion, introducing comfortable yet chic clothing for the modern woman. She popularized the little black dress, tweed jackets, and, of course, the Chanel suit. Her style mantra was about mixing practicality with luxury, creating timeless designs that are still relevant today.
Fashion Lesson:
Classic pieces are forever. Invest in well-tailored blazers, neutral-colored trousers, and timeless accessories like pearls. When you build a wardrobe on classic items, you’ll always have something to wear, no matter the occasion.
How to Wear It Today:
Take inspiration from Chanel by pairing a tweed jacket with a white blouse and wide-legged trousers. Finish the look with a string of pearls and a quilted handbag. This polished, timeless look will never go out of style.
(1947–2016) David Bowie: Embrace Your Individuality
David Bowie wasn’t just a music icon; he was a fashion chameleon. From Ziggy Stardust to the Thin White Duke, Bowie was never afraid to take risks. He used fashion to express his individuality, often challenging gender norms and conventional styles. Bowie’s bold approach to fashion inspires people to experiment and embrace their unique style.
Fashion Lesson:
Be bold, be different. Don’t be afraid to express yourself through fashion, even if it means breaking away from traditional norms. Fashion is personal, and the most memorable looks are often the ones that are the most daring.
How to Wear It Today:
Channel Bowie’s fearlessness by mixing bold prints, bright colors, or unique silhouettes. Try adding a metallic jacket or futuristic accessories to your wardrobe for a daring, standout look. Make it your own by adding pieces that reflect your personality.
(1961–1997) Princess Diana: Effortless Elegance
Princess Diana was the queen of effortless style. Whether she was dressed in a ballgown or a casual sweatshirt and jeans, she always looked graceful and elegant. Diana was a master of balancing trends with timeless sophistication, making her a beloved style icon for generations.
Fashion Lesson:
Confidence is key. The way you carry yourself can elevate any outfit. Princess Diana was known for her grace and poise, proving that how you wear something is just as important as what you wear.
How to Wear It Today:
For casual elegance, think about pairing a relaxed blazer with jeans or a chic sweater dress with boots. Add a pair of oversized sunglasses and minimal accessories for that effortless Princess Diana vibe.
5.Rihanna: Be Fearlessly Unconventional
Rihanna (born 1988) emerged as a style rebel in the 2010s and continues to dominate fashion today. Her sheer Swarovski dress at the CFDA Awards (2014) and her bold MET Gala looks demonstrate her fearless approach to fashion.
Rihanna is the ultimate style rebel. Known for her daring, risk-taking fashion choices, she constantly pushes boundaries. Whether she’s rocking a sheer dress on the red carpet or setting trends in streetwear, Rihanna is unapologetically herself, and her fashion reflects that.
Fashion Lesson:
Be fearless. Don’t worry about following trends or fitting into a certain style mold. If you like it, wear it. Confidence is what turns any outfit into a show-stopping look.
How to Wear It Today:
Take risks with your fashion choices like Rihanna. Whether it’s mixing casual and formal pieces, wearing bold patterns, or playing with different textures, the key is to have fun with your style. Pair sneakers with a formal dress or wear a statement piece that grabs attention — own your look with confidence.
(1929–1982) Grace Kelly: Timeless Glamour
Grace Kelly’s style was all about old-Hollywood glamour. The former princess of Monaco had an iconic fashion sense characterized by clean lines, feminine silhouettes, and luxurious fabrics. Her elegant and polished look made her a fashion legend, symbolizing timeless sophistication.
Fashion Lesson:
Timeless glamour never goes out of style. Focus on clean lines, flattering silhouettes, and high-quality fabrics. Elegance is always in fashion, and sometimes the simplest designs can be the most glamorous.
How to Wear It Today:
Channel Grace Kelly by opting for a fitted midi dress or a tailored suit. Look for high-quality fabrics like silk or satin, and pair your outfit with classic accessories like leather gloves, scarves, or a structured handbag. Finish the look with soft waves and a touch of red lipstick for that old-Hollywood feel.
Kanye West: Breaking the Rules
Kanye West (born 1977) redefined streetwear in the 2010s, particularly with the launch of Yeezy (2015). His oversized silhouettes, neutral palettes, and athleisure-inspired designs challenged conventional fashion norms.
Kanye West is more than a rapper; he’s a fashion mogul who reshaped the streetwear scene. Known for his avant-garde designs, Kanye emphasizes comfort, boldness, and breaking the rules. His influence can be seen in the rise of athleisure and oversized silhouettes in fashion today.
Fashion Lesson:
Don’t be afraid to break the rules. Fashion is ever-evolving, and sometimes the most innovative looks come from thinking outside the box. Whether it’s mixing high fashion with streetwear or experimenting with oversized clothing, take a cue from Kanye and don’t be afraid to challenge the norms.
How to Wear It Today:
Embrace Kanye’s style by playing with oversized clothing, layering, and bold textures. Try pairing an oversized hoodie with slim jeans or experiment with chunky sneakers and unexpected accessories. Mix streetwear with high-fashion elements to create a look that’s both comfortable and cutting-edge.
8.(1929–1994) Jackie Kennedy: The Power of Simplicity
Jackie Kennedy’s fashion was defined by her love for clean, simple lines and a neutral color palette. Her signature looks, such as pillbox hats and tailored suits, were polished yet understated. Jackie showed that fashion didn’t need to be overly complicated to be impactful.
Fashion Lesson:
Simplicity can make the biggest statement. Sometimes, less really is more, and a well-chosen, minimal outfit can be more powerful than an overly complex one. The key is to focus on structure, fit, and quality.
2000s
Fashion at the rise of the 21th century was similar to the one in the late 1990s. But due to globalization and the rise of fast fashion, when affordable clothes inspired by runway designs can now be found in department stores like Mervyn’s, J.C. Penney, and Macy’s) fashion trends became even more widespread. Moreover, celebrities and characters from TV shows such as The OC, One Tree Hill, and Gossip Girl were the style icons of the decade and influenced many people.
Fashion was also marked by the rapid development of technology, which translated into fashion. The Matrix movie in particular inspired a few designers like Balenciaga, Calvin Klein, and Yves Saint Laurent to use almost exclusively black for their Fall 2001 collections.
2020s
The outbreak of Covid had a long-lasting impact on fashion. People adopted cozy and practical clothing, and activewear became a fashion trend again. The value of comfort persisted after the lockdown, so the minimalism of the 90s resurfaced. So far, the 2020s also brought back trends characteristic of other decades, like mini dresses and skirts from the 60s, and the Y2K trend from the 2000s. Let’s see what the next years of the decade will bring.
How to Wear It Today:
Go for timeless, structured pieces like a well-fitted dress or tailored blazer. Keep accessories to a minimum, and stick to neutral colors for a look that’s effortlessly chic and classic.
Conclusion: Finding Your Own Style
While these style icons have given us unforgettable fashion lessons, the most important takeaway is that fashion is personal. Whether you prefer the boldness of Bowie, the elegance of Hepburn, or the glamour of Grace Kelly, it’s all about finding what makes you feel confident and empowered. Style is not about following trends but about expressing yourself in a way that feels authentic. So take inspiration from the legends, but always make it your own!
By anchoring these icons in specific eras, the piece provides historical context while keeping the advice timeless and relevant.
Conclusion: Finding Your Own Style
While these style icons have given us unforgettable fashion lessons, the most important takeaway is that fashion is personal. Whether you prefer the boldness of Bowie, the elegance of Hepburn, or the glamour of Grace Kelly, it’s all about finding what makes you feel confident and empowered. Style is not about following trends but about expressing yourself in a way that feels authentic. So take inspiration from the legends, but always make it your own!
Explore your style journey by taking inspiration from these legendary icons. Whether you're stepping out in a chic little black dress or breaking the rules with bold patterns, remember that true fashion is all about you. Start expressing your individuality, embrace your confidence, and let your wardrobe tell your story. Which style legend inspires you the most? Share your thoughts and looks in the comments or tag us in your fashion experiments. Let’s keep the style legacy alive!
