I’ve always believed fashion isn’t just what we wear – it’s how we present ourselves to the world. Whether it’s the perfect dress or a baggy sweatshirt, what we wear tells a story. Lately, I’ve been wondering where all this started. How did we go from flapper dresses to fast fashion? Bulky ball gowns to cocktail dresses? That’s what I’m here to find out!

I realized that to understand the fashion we have today, we need to rewind and look at the decades that came before us. Fashion reflects its time – influenced by art, politics, and its city’s culture. So, why not take a trip through the past, one decade at a time, one city at a time, to see how fashion evolved in these capitals?

Fashion wasn’t created overnight. Different cities have their unique style that has evolved in fashion around the globe. I will be highlighting the major fashion capitals that have shaped global trends. Think Paris, Milan, London, Tokyo, New York and Los Angeles. Each of these cities has dominated the fashion circuit and made lasting contributions to the fashion scene. 

Starting in the 1960s, and working our back to the present day, we’ll be going step by step through the decades. Consider the ‘70s Ready-To-Wear era of Paris or the ‘80s birth of the ‘Power Suit” in Milan. Each decade has a distinct look, all of which are pivotal moments for the influence of future fashion. By focusing on the past, we can understand the progression of fashion today. 

Over the years, fashion has been a form of self-expression and empowerment. It has mirrored the societal changes of the generations before us. From elaborate garments to causal streetwear, we can see the evolution from royalty to youth culture. Today, fashion is a large part of our society; both respected and encouraged. However, to fully appreciate fashion, we must recognize its ability to exceed identities and cultural movements. 

Let me make one thing clear; fashion isn’t just about designers and runway shows – it’s about you and me. It’s about how we dress ourselves for work, meeting friends, or even staying home. Fashion is an expression of our individuality, a statement we make in every moment. As exhilarating as it is to plan the future of fashion, it’s essential to acknowledge how far we’ve come. 

So, take a ride with me as I explore this phenomenon. Going backward in time to appreciate the fashion we have today. To look through pivotal decades of style, individuality, and evolution. Through this exploration, we’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the unity of fashion and how it’s not just what we wear – but our way of telling stories. 

Featured image is generated by AI.