Monday 16 April 2012

1930's the forgotten era - Part 1

(I do not own this image)
Everybody loves the 1920's and the 1940's. You often hear people talking about the 50's with similar affection but the 1930's seem to be the forgotten era. To me, it is a beautiful hybrid of both the 20's and 40's. It has the androgynous boyish strength and sexuality of the 20's, teamed with the femininity and elegance of the 40's. Doesn't that sound a perfect combination?

The 1930's was undeniably, an interesting period of time. The roaring twenties were filled with luxury, freedom, rebellion, considerable wealth and greed. Depicted in novels such as The Great Gatsby, rich Americans wasted there new found opulence and ultimately threw their sustainability into turmoil. When the 1930's came, the world fell into a deep and depressive recession. Suddenly jobs were being lost and people couldn't afford the beautiful Parisian couture gowns that were once a booming economy. The French designers had always relied upon there exports to the United States who's economy was quickly diminishing through the breakdown of its stock market. The house of Chanel cut its prices in half to survive this economic collapse along with other fellow designers who were struggling. Ready-to-wear pieces became available as new and old fashion houses began to diversify there collections. During this time, competition began from London and New York as they pranced into the fashion scene - although Paris still held the monopoly on style. Interestingly, America led the world into wholesale and ready-to-wear garments - arguably creating the spark of high-street fashion.

Vogue cover from the 1930's
(I do not own this image)
During the 30's, the linear, gamine* look  of the 20's was discarded and replaced by closer fitted garments to accentuate the female silhouette. Shapes, colours and styles became softer. During this diverse era, shorts became acceptable clothing for women, swimwear became more sexual and sunglasses became the ultimate fashion accessory.

[*A gamine is a slim, often boyish, wide-eyed young woman who is, or is perceived to be mischievous, teasing  or sexually appealing.]

The 30's were known for its recession but also escapism. During this time, Hollywood began to grow, film stars began to blossom and there influence began to create celebrity culture and powerful fashion icons such as Joan Blondell. I always stress through my blog, the link between fashion, culture and history.  I consider these to be synonymous with each other, fashion being a clear reflection of popular culture and current affairs.

Joan Blondell - Film start during the 30's (I do not own this image)
Here is a jazz song from the 30's - take a listen, I am sure you will recognise it!



A 1930's outfit post is certainly calling me. Let me see what I can come up with! What are your thoughts on the 1930's? I cannot wait to hear...


16 comments:

Vanessa V. said...

I love this post! Great!

ellie said...

What a great history lesson! Loved it! I just didn't know sunglasses were popular then. I think in that era, those in the know, would deconstruct their dresses to make new ones out of them. Of course, I think a lot more women did DIY projects at that time than we do now. Everything from taking yarn to make hats and sweaters. It was a time a lot people did use their ingenuity.

lucy and sarah said...

I so loved this. Great post! I always loved the hats of that era.

ivy's closet said...

So glad you posted about this. Great history lesson here, too.

Fashion R&D said...

Yep, it is the forgotten era! Would love to see an outfit post!!

christine said...

1930's is always blurred with 1920/s and 1940's totally agree. Which is why I don't really know much about the decade in fashion. Great post! I really learned a lot from this. Just bought a cloche at the thrift store the other day...similar to the one in the picture :) Wonder if it's from the 1930's?

Christine
dela chic

mazzy may said...

What a wonderful post! I always liked those little round sunshades, best.

Maiken said...

I really enjoyed that post since I didn't know almost anything about the fashion of the 30's before reading your post. for an example the fact about sunnies. I'm definitely going to keep that in mind. and I like the cover of vintage Vogue as well :)

Maiken/
Maikeni blogi - part of me

Courtney Erin said...

A 30s themed fashion post would be really cool!

Courtney ~ http://sartorialsidelines.com

Barbara von Enger said...

Sunshades have always played a part in fashion history. I so enjoyed reading this post. I am enriched.

Unknown said...

I love the style and the classiness of women during these times, especially the hats, the dresses, and the makeup! As far as the 1930's goes, I love the hats, the hairstyles, and the makeup as well! Go for it!-Jessica

THEJESSICALBLOG.COM

BRUNETTE BRAID said...

I love the past, I think I know more about the 60's and 70 's and now I know a little about 30's thanks to your post!

HAve a nice weekend ;)

theheadlessstylist said...

Hi, just want to say I really appreciate the comment you left me and I will be taking your advice :)thank you
x

theheadlessstylist.blogspot.co.uk

ROSE OLIVEIRA said...

beautiful post loved the kisses always innovating...

http://blogtopodendo.blogspot.com.br/

Aurelia said...

interesting, I love photos from the 20's the most
http://aprettylife13.blogspot.com

Girl on a Donkey said...

Hey, can you tell me where you found the first photo in your article, if you can remember? Very curious about it because it's my drop dead look-a-like. Thanks!