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Fashion History 

Clothing fashion history is an extremely interesting and vivid branch of the study of antiquity. Much like history, fashion tends to repeat itself. The bell bottoms of the 60's and 70's gave way to the close cut legs of the 80's, which in turn begot the flares in the 90's - a circle completed.

But why study fashion history? After all, we live in the present and plan for the future, why hark back to the past? The great man himself, Valentino Garavani, is quoted as saying "the only way you learn to [be a great designer] is by studying the work of those who worked before you". He goes on to say that the amazing ‘staying power’ of the house of Valentino can be attributed to the fact that his work is solidly anchored in the study of history and art.

In the past it took years, even decades, for themes and applications to move from one art-form to another. Today, due to the advent of television and the internet, this exchange is almost instantaneous. Although this is great for establishing a dynamic fashion community, it makes the study of fashion history all the more important. History provides the only comprehensive evidential base for the contemplation and analysis of societal function. How can you begin to understand your target market or pre-empt their spending patterns without knowing the fundamental way in which they fit into society?

Furthermore, by studying history you gain a broad perspective that gives you the range and flexibility to prosper in a range of working environments. You develop research skills, the ability to find and evaluate sources of information, and the means to identify and evaluate diverse interpretations. So, what were women wearing in the 1920’s? Who were Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn and why are they relevant in terms of fashion trends history? What is a flapper? These topics are all covered in my new Fashion Museum section. Find everything you might need with accompanying photos for your projects and storyboards.