decades research paper-40's & 80's

My research paper will be on women’s fashion of the 40’s and 80’s and how that generation impacted their trends. After discussing each decade, I will distinguish the differences and unique styles fitting each time period.

The 1940’s was a time of chaos and was dominated by World War II. The bombing of pearl harbor marked the starting point of the war and most men were being drafted into the war, forcing women to step up and play the role of both men and women. Returning GI’s created the baby boom generation, communism was still spreading, and the Cold War was beginning. Swing dancing first made an appearance and was a way for the troops to take their minds off the dramatic effects of war. America was on its way up to a business economy and more luxury designers, Chanel and Dior became popular. Since nicer fabrics was scarce they resulted to elaborate colors and all their fashions were influenced by the war.

The 1980’s was the “if you got it, flaunt it” generation. This decade was the collapse of communism and the ending of the Cold War. Technology was advancing greatly and so was the media. There was sustained economic growth and the rich and famous was a part of every day life. Designer labeled clothing meant everything and was used to express their creativity and individuality. Everything had to be flashy and make a statement and wore designers such as Calvin Klein, Armani, and Ralph Lauren.

In these decades women’s fashion was influenced by the events taking place. Through my research I will show the differences between the two decades and how the economy and current events impact every aspect of their look.