Fashion Has Changed Dramatically Since 1915

Mode has dropped another one of its hugely popular fashion evolution videos, and this time it’s a showdown between men and women. “100 Years of Men’s and Women’s Fashion” takes viewers through some of the greatest and most questionable trends of the last century — complete with perfect soundtrack choices and attractive models — from formal tuxedo shoes and denim rompers to decorated jeans. It covers it all!

Personally, I’m a fan of the early 2000s and the 1940s as strong style options compared to today’s trends. That might have something to do with my love for Jimmy Stewart films and shows like The O.C. or Veronica Mars. I’m also glad the 1970s gave us Chuck Taylor Converse sneakers and leather jacket styles. That said, I believe we as a society are in a much better place now than we were just ten years ago. Fits and tailoring have improved greatly to accommodate many different preferences, and individual style isn’t ruled as strictly by social expectations.

Still, the development of fashion is captivating and every true fashion enthusiast should understand its history. I’m simply relieved that women can wear pants — even yoga pants — in modern times. So, with the goal of sharing knowledge for everyone’s benefit, here is men’s and women’s fashion from 1915 to the present. Who knows? Maybe this will encourage you to try some styles you had never considered before!

1. 1915 I adore the feather on the hat, but speaking for women everywhere, I think we’re all relieved that this dress style has disappeared and won’t be coming back. Also, big respect to Sibyl on Downton Abbey season one. I’d have to give this round to the men.

For five years, my Italian in-laws laughed at me in their language, thinking I was too stupid to understand. I smiled, served dinner, and memorized every insult. But the night I announced my pregnancy

2. 1925 Yes to Wilde, flappers, and dancing, but no to bucket hats. However, this man’s complete outfit just doesn’t work for me. Women of 1925 take the win.
3. 1935 This one is nearly even. I’d say the men have shown the biggest style progress here, but it depends on whether you enjoy the Rat Pack and Sammy Davis. I’d give the men the edge for overall fit and look, but the women win for silhouette.
4. 1945 Women win. No question. Look at how adorable and polished she is! The wide-leg khakis, sweater vest, and hat aren’t helping him at all.
5. 1955 And then, suddenly a total style transformation. This is the time of greasers and Sandy Olsson. Women embraced more color, while men went more casual and experimental. But to their credit, a leather jacket always looks sharp. I’d call this a victory for Danny Zuko.
6. 1965 This mustard-colored beatnik outfit needs to be eliminated, no matter how attractive the model is. The hot pink dress, however, is Mad Men chic in the best possible way.
7. 1975 Jeans, paisley, flower children, and turtleneck sweaters make the 1970s quite memorable in fashion history. We also see the start of suede fringe and oversized glasses. Still, when comparing fairly, I’d say the women own the all-denim trend in this decade.
8. 1985 Oof, overall. We all kind of failed in the 1980s. Honestly, who decided big crimped hair and mullets were attractive? My mom’s closet still gives me nightmares. I’d call this one a tie.
9. 1995 Women were far more grunge and adventurous in the 1990s. We win. Sorry, not sorry.
10. 2005 I’m a bit biased because I’m obsessed with early 2000s CW shows, but I think this was a major improvement for both men and women. Jeans were definitely better.
11. 2015 Fit, shape, style, and use of color have improved and become more minimalist. Clothing is more practical in all kinds of weather. However, that doesn’t mean we aren’t bold with our style. In fact, it’s the opposite, as shown by every fashion week. In the comparison between the two looks shown here, I’d say Mr. Model wins. His facial hair has improved so much over the years, and he wears the all-denim look much better than he did in the 1970s.

So, what’s the final score? Women win 5-4. It could have been a tie if the 1980s hadn’t been as terrible as they were. It’s enjoyable to watch John Hughes movies, but not as fun to recreate all the blue eyeshadow looks with scrunchies. Both women’s and men’s fashion is in a much better place now than it was only a few years ago. We’ll find out soon what 2016 brings us!