Women’s fashion has changed drastically over the last century – ranging from restrictive corseted garments to lingerie-inspired silhouettes, these dresses represent a period of great liberation in terms of fashion. From the industrial revolution to the emergence of technology, fashion has always been an opportunity to express creativity, freedom, and individual identity. Women’s fashion from 1900 to 1939 was some of the most revolutionary, and this guide will explore the most significant trends of the era.
The Industrial Revolution
The start of the twentieth century brought the industrial revolution, which caused a shift in both production and consumer practices. As machines enabled more efficient production, more affordable clothing pieces with mass appeal began to arise. Women’s fashion throughout the early part of the century focused more on practicality and comfort, often in the form of tea dresses with loose silhouettes, high necklines, and waist cinching sashes.
The Gibson Girl
One of the most iconic looks of the early 1900s was the Gibson Girl, named after the artist Charles Dana Gibson. His illustrations of elegant, confident women with long, s-wave styled hair and long, a-line dresses epitomize the look of the era. Created as a reflection on feminist independence and empowerment, the Gibson Girl remains an evergreen look today.
Edwardian Silhouettes
Following the industrial revolution were two decades of Edwardian influence, which heavily influenced even the tiniest of details in fashion. Women’s dresses during this period saw a rise in ornate fabrics that exaggerated the natural curves of the body. High necklines, wide collars and decorated bodices were often paired with skirts that reached the knee and cinched waists to emphasize an hourglass silhouette.
The 1920s – Flapper Style
The 1920s were a time of liberation for women, which heavily impacted their fashion choices. What was formerly a constricting, corseted look transitioned into one which was more relaxed, playful and often edgy. These ‘flapper’ dresses featured looser, sheer fabrics, dropped waists, and deep V-necklines that allowed for greater movement. These silhouettes also saw an infusion of sequins, feathers, and fringes.
The 1930s – Hollywood Glamour
The start of the 1930s made way for a new, glamorous trend in women’s fashion. Inspired by Hollywood glamour, women everywhere began to dress with appropriating more flamboyant pieces such as statement coats, bold prints and luxurious fabrics. Where women’s garments had formerly been severely tailored, this new trend emphasized more playful, feminine detailing like ruffles, bows and lace.
Recap of Women’s Fashion from 1900-1939
To recap, women’s fashion from 1900 to 1939 marked a historically significant change within the industry – largely due to the shifting attitudes surrounding women’s roles in society. Here’s a list of the most notable influences of the era:
1900s:
- The industrial revolution brought a shift in both production & consumer practices.
- Tea dresses with loose silhouettes, high necklines, and waist cinching sashes became popular, as well as the iconic Gibson Girl look.
Edwardian 1910s:
- Edwardian silhouettes featured high necklines, wide collars and decorated bodices with skirts that reached the knee and cinched waists to emphasize an hourglass silhouette.
The 1920s:
- The flapper dress emerged with looser, sheer fabrics, dropped waists, and deep V-necklines that allowed for greater movement.
- Sequins, feathers, and fringes were also popular for a dressier, more playful look.
The 1930s:
- Women’s fashion took inspiration from Hollywood glamour and emphasized more flamboyant pieces such as statement coats, bold prints and luxurious fabrics.
- The more traditional silhouette of this time was still more flouncy, with ruffles, bows, and lace detailing.
Women’s fashion from 1900 to 1939 was revolutionary in terms of both design and cultural influence. It has since become key reference point in understanding the impact of period specific politics, as well as just how so drastically fashion can evolve in only a few decades. It is also a great testament to how far women have come – in terms of both rights and sense of fashion freedom.
