Fashion and clothing are affected by global events, because fashion is like any product affected by the state of its consumers and their desires, so fashion makers always look at what is happening everywhere around the world, and the needs of individuals before launching their new products.
One of the most important global events that changed the fashion and clothing style is the First World War. Paris was the fashion capital before World War I, but due to poor communication between the United States and France, New York emerged as a leading city in fashionable and feminine fashion design, which had never existed before.
First World War
World War I and its events changed the notion specifically about women's fashion and clothing, and when men set out to fight, women took over jobs that were previously held by men.
Women and girls turned to administrative jobs, work in farms, factories and nursing, which caused the emergence of a new image of women financially and morally, and the traditional image of women changed, and therefore the traditional roles of both sexes disappeared, so women demanded to drive cars and the right to vote.
And many professions required wearing uniforms that included pants, and a military outlook crept into fashion design due to the surrounding atmosphere, and women-style military jackets appeared, and people took a simpler lifestyle, which pushed women to reduce jewelry and give up luxurious decorated clothes in favor of more clothes Process.
As the lives of women changed, their roles changed, the rules governing clothing softened, the skirts became shorter, while the colors became darker and more sober. In the spring of 1914, new, wide bell-shaped skirts appeared, with women's shirts with wide collars, and inclined shoulders, but fashion critics viewed it as a waste of wartime fabrics, called for a more conservative use of fabrics, and fashion makers returned to narrow skirts.
World War II
When World War II erupted in 1939, it looked like the end of fashion and fashion, as the peoples of Europe had more pressing concerns, such as air strikes, a potential invasion, and a lack of resources. The war did lead to a shortage of raw materials for clothes, and taxes on clothes rose, but fashion nevertheless found its own style of survival.
Just as it did in World War I, it happened in the second, as the war changed the way people think about work clothes and at home. It became important for clothing to be practical and elegant, and apparel and accessories manufacturers rushed to find commercial potential in war products.
Because of the war, wearing gas masks became necessary, as a result of potential threats to the gas wars, and people were advised to carry their gas masks, and as a result, women’s leather shoulder bags could be carried on the shoulder, equipped with a cabin dedicated to the gas mask.
In 1939, "blackout" was imposed in Britain to make it more difficult for German bombers, so street lights and illuminated signs were extinguished, and blankets were placed over car lights. The blackout caused accidents and collisions, and the government urged the masses to wear white clothes, to show people clearly to drivers and passers-by, and a range of illuminated accessories such as chains, handbags, and buttons glow in the dark.
A new piece of clothing also appeared, a "siren suit", which is a full gown that can be worn quickly over sleepwear if individuals are forced to flee air strikes.
Although the suit was a functional attire, it was not without elegance, and it had a belt and collars with a glowy color that contrasted with the original color.
Fashion designers fear
At the time, there were concerns among fashion designers that people would wear very similar clothes because of the austerity policies pursued by Britain in order to save raw materials and reduce manufacturing costs, but the British government assured the public and fashion makers that it did not wish to adopt a dictatorial role in fashion , And brought fashion designers to design stylish, varied and economical collections at the same time.
The government has set a maximum price for ready-to-wear, and 15 patterns for infant and girls' clothing. The fans initially hesitated about the clothes, but the government, with the help of celebrities from the political and cinema community, helped promote these practical clothes, until the audience received them positively.
Clothes in the time of the Corona virus
It seems too early to talk about the impact of the appearance of the Coronavirus on fashion and clothing, but the clothes remain part of identity and self-expression. With the prolonged quarantine, many have lost interest in clothing, especially as no people express their admiration for the clothes.
Since the beginning of the quarantine, many have abandoned decorative garments, hair extensions and artificial nails, and have gone for more comfortable outfits such as sportswear and functional clothing with comfortable fabrics.
At the present time, with the gradual return to life - despite the fact that the Coronavirus has not ended completely - fashion makers will face the challenge of making comfortable, practical and elegant clothes after many people are used to using home clothes or sportswear for long periods.
The demand for accessories and clothing accessories may decrease due to the constant need to sterilize everything a person wears after returning from abroad.