Snapshots of popular fashion throughout the decades

In the 1950s, although the Second World War was over in 1945, money and materials were still in short supply. However many British women took fashion very seriously. The predominant silhouette in the 50s had a tiny waist, fitted top half and a full skirt to just below the knee.

For young girls in the early 60's, clothing was typically plain, simple box dresses. However, in the late sixties, clothing became more inspired by city life. This meant that bright colours and patterns became popular.  Short "Mini" skirts and crop tops were introduced for the first time.

The early 1960's didn't see much change in young boys fashion either. Clothing was very plain, with grey being a common colour. 

70s fashion was inspired by the hippy movement with much more excentric designs and Vivienne Westwood’s retort to that in the form of punk. 

In 80s fashion, new clothing such as the power suit became popular. Track suits and sportswear, with different trainer brands were seen more often. Denim skirts and denim jackets, as well as jeans, were used more and the boy band 'Bros' popularised ripped jeans.

90s fashion was slightly more minimalist than the 80s. The popularity of grunge and alternative rock music amplified the grunge look to the mainstream by 1994. The anti-conformist approach to fashion led to T-shirts, jeans, hoodies, and sneakers becoming more popular.

2000s fashion included a fusion of vintage styles, global and ethnic clothing such a 'boho', and fashion based off popular music. Hip-hop fashion and indie music were popular. Y2K fashion arose with baggier bottoms and smaller tops, buckles, metallics and graphic tees were common. These trends carried on in the 2010s.

In 2022, there has been mashup of trends which have became popular. The 90s and Y2K fashion is popular with baggier jeans being seen again, as well as 70s and 80s clothing coming back to life again.