Quilted skirt, autumn/winter 1985–86 Jean Paul Gaultier - source
Change in fashion is influenced greatly by what is going on in society, ethics, beliefs, important events and the actions of powerful people all influence the clothes being designed and worn at the time.
The strong feminist movement from the 1960’s to the 1980s has had great influence on designers such as Vivienne Westwood and Jean Paul Gaultier. These designers have been constantly influenced by gender, whether they are breaking down the barrier between male and female dress or playing with, and exaggerating each genders stereotype.
For example Jean Paul Gaultier is very well known for his cone bra worn by Madonna which emphasises and draws attention to her feminine body. In contrast his 1988 collection included skirts for men bending gender stereotypes.
Not conforming to gender roles is often linked to the rejection of social conformity. This can be represented through fashion and a good example is the 1970’s ‘punks’ whom adapted a very androgynous style, using distressed fabric, safety pins and angry colours. Their attitude was rebellious and aggressive showing their disapproval of happenings in society. Music was of great importance to them as they followed bands which were vocalising their opinion on political and social issues. The sex pistols were one of these bands, being managed by Malcolm Malaren meant Vivienne Westwood had the chance to dress them and promote her punk style.
Gender has a huge influence in fashion and not conforming gender norms through what we wear can make a point and generate change. It can be extremely difficult to start that change but it is what makes fashion so exciting and controversial.
The strong feminist movement from the 1960’s to the 1980s has had great influence on designers such as Vivienne Westwood and Jean Paul Gaultier. These designers have been constantly influenced by gender, whether they are breaking down the barrier between male and female dress or playing with, and exaggerating each genders stereotype.
For example Jean Paul Gaultier is very well known for his cone bra worn by Madonna which emphasises and draws attention to her feminine body. In contrast his 1988 collection included skirts for men bending gender stereotypes.
Not conforming to gender roles is often linked to the rejection of social conformity. This can be represented through fashion and a good example is the 1970’s ‘punks’ whom adapted a very androgynous style, using distressed fabric, safety pins and angry colours. Their attitude was rebellious and aggressive showing their disapproval of happenings in society. Music was of great importance to them as they followed bands which were vocalising their opinion on political and social issues. The sex pistols were one of these bands, being managed by Malcolm Malaren meant Vivienne Westwood had the chance to dress them and promote her punk style.
Gender has a huge influence in fashion and not conforming gender norms through what we wear can make a point and generate change. It can be extremely difficult to start that change but it is what makes fashion so exciting and controversial.
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