Over the last 100 years, decades in fashion have revealed just how dramatically style can evolve. Shifts in politics, technology, social norms, and mass media continually shape what we wear and drive the ever-changing trends. From the flapper dresses of the 1920s to the spandex leggings of the 1980s, each era showcases a distinct style that defines its time. These iconic looks often resurface in designer collections many years later, proving that fashion is cyclical. Still, every decade claims one or two unmistakable trends that anyone living then would have embraced.

Here’s a look back at the most popular style by decade, exploring the standout trends from the 1920s to today…

1920s: Flapper Dresses

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The Roaring Twenties brought with it the iconic flapper dress. After the war, consumers wanted something freeing and empowering, yet opulent and fabulous. The flapper dress with its drop waist and feathered embellishments was exactly that. It has become the style that is instantly recognisable from the 20s and was embraced at the time by designers like Coco Chanel and Jean Patou.

1930s: Golden Glamour

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Following on from the extravagant fashion of the 20s came the Golden Age of Glamour. The 1930s were a difficult time for many due to the Great Depression and increasing poverty. Despite this, the fashions of the decade expressed a sense of luxurious elegance – offering an escape from the harsh realities.

The silver screen was booming with film icons like Bette Davis and Joan Crawford dazzling in glamourous gowns that the masses of course wanted to replicate. As a result of the economic crisis, Parisian Courtiers dropped their prices and sold their designs to American retailers for duplication. Allowing women even on low incomes to afford the glamorous looks.

1940s: The Bikini

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When comparing to today’s trends it’s hard to imagine a time when bikinis were not the mainstream. However, it wasn’t until the 40s that the “two-piece swimsuit” gained popularity as a result of fabric rationing due to World War II. The bottoms were high-waisted to not expose the belly button and resembled a tight mini skirt. Though despite the relatively modest design compared to today’s standards many women were reluctant to initially embrace this trend over fears of being criticised for showing too much skin.

1950s: The “New Look”

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In 1947, Christian Dior debuted the “New Look” silhouette that would shape the decade as well as the brand’s identity for years to come.  The exaggerated feminine style featured a full skirt made from tulle or chiffon and a tight, cinched-in waist to accentuate the female shape. 

1960s: Miniskirts

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Hemlines were noticeably shorter come the 60s. Born in London, the miniskirt was a product of the mod fashion movement. Women no longer wanted conservative or restricting styles and so opted for a shorter skirt instead. This change of preference signalled a social change and marked the rise of the Second Wave of Feminism. Designs were often in loud prints and bold colours which were also very typical of this decade. 

1970s: Bell Bottoms

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Bell Bottoms, also known as flares, was one of the 70s biggest trends. Celebrities like Cher and Diana Ross were instrumental in making the style popular. They have since become synonymous with the hippie culture of the decade and were often styled with a matching sleeveless waistcoat or embroidered with flowers.

Big fan of 1970s fashion? Check out this guide on 70s Fashion Trends That Are Still Current Today

1980s: Spandex

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Nothing screams the 80s more than a spandex leotard and matching leg warmers. The aerobics trend was in full force during the 80s, but the fashions were not reserved solely for the workout studio. Bodysuits, leggings, headbands, and bike shorts in colourful spandex were seen everywhere from the streets to the red carpet.

1990s: Minimalism

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A big shift happened in fashion between the 80s and 90s with many designers showcasing a more minimalistic style. Sleek, satin slip dresses in monochromatic and neutral colours became mainstream. Perhaps thanks to the rise of supermodels such as Kate Moss that often favoured a simplistic and natural look.

More Like This: The 90s It-Girls Inspiring My Summer Outfits

2000s: Velour Tracksuits

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The 2000s were an interesting time for fashion. Dresses over jeans, low-rise waists, rhinestones on everything! However there is one piece that really defines this decade, and that is the velour tracksuit. Low maintenance and comfortable, you can see why it was so popular. Loved by celebrities like Paris Hilton, Britney Spears, and Lindsay Lohan, they came in every colour imaginable.

2010s: Skinny jeans

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Everyone, and I mean everyone owned a pair of skinny jeans in the 2010s (and maybe still do?) It’s hard to imagine that there were alternative trouser options at the time as the masses seemed to live in their skinny jeans. Baggy mom jeans are definitely the trendy style now, but I don’t think we have seen the last of the skinny jeans…