They say fashion repeats itself every 20 years but the 2010s is recycling fashion trends from the whole of the 20th century. It is rather hard to match the 20th century’s level of innovation in fashion. Every decade had set its own trends, silhouettes changed drastically, and hemlines became shorter.
In the post-globalisation period, fashion has become standardised and Western fashion trends are quickly seen on the Indian runways. Henceforth, if Hollywood starts recycling its retro looks, Bollywood gets ready to be ‘inspired’.
In recent years we have seen the revival of so many trends of the past; it makes one question the originality of designers. So, can we call 2010s the era of the recycled fashion? Actually, we can. Let’s travel back in time to trace the origins of your favourite styles.
The 20s with all its jazz was an exceptionally glamorous era. Thus, it was obvious we would end up bringing some of it styles back.
Dark lip colours: Indian celebrities have recently woken to the advantages of bold lip colour and we have seen countless celebrities going dark.
Bardot tops: Actress Brigitte Bardot’s signature style in the 50s is the simpler version of the off-shoulder ruffle blouse.
The 3/4th sleeves sari blouse: Before the 60s, this sari blouse style was predominant in India. Fast forward 50 years, this classic vintage style has returned. Vidya Balan is a big champion of this style. The boat-neck blouse can also be labelled as its distant cousin.
The 60s Style Revolution
The 60s was an era of major style revolution and we have to thank this decade for giving us unforgettable fashion.
Fringes and Tassels: These embellishments became a trend in the 1960s courtesy of various musicians. Today, bags and Kimonos with fringes have become a part of every fashionista’s wardrobe.
Lennon glasses: As the name suggests, these round glasses owe their fame to The Beatles’ John Lennon. Both Hollywood and Bollywood celebrities are now wearing them with panache.
‘Anarkali suit’: ‘Anarkali’ became a rage after Madhubala wore them in the hit movie ‘Mughl-e-Azam’ (1960). Over time, the ‘Anarkali’ suit was replaced by long straight fit ‘kurtas’. The ‘Anarkali’ suit has not only made a comeback but has perched itself on the trend list in an almost semi-permanent manner.
Cut-out: This simple but sexy style gives an edge to any dress and is an invention of the 60s.
The Midi Skirts: These sophisticated tea length skirts first came around in the 1940s and then made a comeback in the 60s.
The Bohemian Era
The biggest trend revival is from the 70s. 2016 seems to be paying homage to this bohemian era.
Peasant Blouse: This loose fitted top was a fashion hit in the 70s.
Maxis: These long and loose fitted dresses are a bohemian dream.
High-waisted flared pants or Palazzo: This style has been seen on the international runway as well as the Indian one. It has also been interpreted in a unique manner in Indian ethnic wear.
Off-shoulder ruffle blouse: This style is a current favourite of Bollywood celebrities. Deepika Padukone, Shraddha Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor and Lisa Haydon have all being spotted wearing it.
Platforms: Platforms heels were huge in the 70s and also in the 90s. Today we don’t just have heels, but also platform sneakers.
The Flashy 90s
Crop top: The crop top came around in the 80s but became a huge craze because of pop sensations of the 90s like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera.
Choker Necklace: This goth fashion accessory is also a gift of the 90s and give an edge to any look.
Handlooms: Handloom has technically never gone out of fashion. It has always been there on the sidelines. In the 1980s Jaya Bachchan and Sharmila Tagore preferred the traditionally woven sari but the advent of designers like Rohit Bal, Ritu Beri and Manish Malhotra changed this trend. The handloom saris were replaced by chiffon saris in the 90s.
Indian designers for the past few years have been promoting India’s traditional weaves like never before. Banarasi and Zari have made a comeback, especially in bridal wear.
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