February 11, 2014

Fashion Trends: Then and Now

Caroline Gadsby
Staff Writer

Each decade varies from the next one when it comes to fashion.  As most generations do, this generation has modified fashion from many different decades into something more modernized.  All over the media, there are iconic fashion trends that have been followed throughout generations.  Starting from the 20s, bold lip colors have been an on-going trend.  Vibrant lipstick has been more popular recently with berry, red, and coral colors.  The 1920s are also known as the decade for classy, yet comfortable clothing.  Continuing throughout the years, the 40’s and 50’s high-waisted shorts have reappeared.  A-line, or skater skirts have also become immensely popular among women, as they were in the 1950s.  Next, Bohemian or boho fashion has made a huge comeback.  Styles like crochet detailing, floral prints, and loose tops are replicas of the 60s. Celebrities are constantly seen wearing their own versions of this unique style.  Alternatively, grunge fashion has been making more of an appearance.  This different style has changed drastically since the 1970s.  Before, anyone who wore clothing that did not completely cover them, or had some weird designs, were outcasts.  Now, those so called “punks” that were the rebels of the 70s are reappearing with spikes, studs, and shredded clothing.  The 80s were all about standing out.  Bright neon colors and bold accessories were only the beginning of the 1980’s memorable fashion statements.  More of today’s summer fashion consists of statement necklaces and crop tops, which incorporates the 80’s daring trends.
Most people don’t really think about where trends come from, and they just adapt to whatever their peers are wearing.  Fashion changes all the time and people constantly try to stay in the loop and on top of trends.  Even though many fads come back into fashion, there are some that never do.  Fads like bell-bottom jeans, big hair, and graphic tees went out and have so far stayed out of style.  One of the most common places to see diverse fashion is at schools.  With many people of different ages and interests, there are always differing styles.  Students at Apex High School are good examples of diverse fashion choices.  There is a huge mix of preppy, hipster, grunge, and girly styles all over the school. 
Junior Katie Gaynor 
 One student, Katie Gaynor is a prime example of teens mixing two of the most popular trends right now, preppy and hipster.  Gaynor is wearing a loose blouse with a gold chain statement necklace for that casual preppy look.   For shoes, she chose combat boots, another big trend this year.
Sophomore Arina Sukhanova
Another student, Arina Sukhanova, is pictured wearing a bright colored top and jean jacket, along with a mid-length skirt and ankle booties.  All of these are top trends this year, especially for the spring.  No style is ever exactly alike.  That’s why there is no right or wrong when it comes to fashion.  As many different styles are found world-wide, I have to ask, what is your style?