The Revival of Art Deco

The Art Deco look first began during the excitement of Jazz Age life, prohibition, and the idealization of college men and coeds in the US gave a youthful emphasis to fashion. During the depression years of the 1930's fashion was driven by the fantasies of Hollywood, and by a desire to return to a more traditionally feminine image for women, as women were forced by economics to return to a more traditional life. In the face of mass unemployment, it was generally felt that women should leave the workplace to men-- at least until the outbreak of World War II in 1941. During the early 1930s hemlines dropped again to just above the ankles, and longer dresses were again in vogue for evening wear. The tricks of draping and intricate seaming learned in the 1920s were now applied to making dresses that clung to the body. Soft crepe, chiffon, and satin cut on the bias were used. For evening the bared back was the new erotic zone, replacing the legs of the 1920s. As the decade advanced, hemlines would rise again. The shirt dress (left) was a new style introduced in this period that would become a classic. Vionnet and Schiaparelli were among the leading designers. In the late 60's and for most of the 70's the Art Deco look made a huge comeback. It's revival was partially due to the popularity of the film adaptation of The Great Gatsby, starring Robert Redford and Mia Farrow. The late 60's hippie style combined with the glamorous velvets and chiffon of Art Deco made for a truly memorable time in fashion. Designers like Ossie Clark, Celia Birtwell, and stores like Biba and Quorum brought the look to the streets. Soon, many fashionable Rock Geisha's were strutting around in large hats, dark makeup(colours were blackish mulberries, blueberries, rusts and plums), flapper dresses, and chunky platform heels.

(photos from Boutique: A 60's phenomenon, and Unseen Vogue)