The feminist movement in the fashion industry

The feminist movement in the fashion industry

The feminist movement has been instrumental in influencing fashion since the 1960s. Revolutionary women, such as Gloria Steinem and Simone de Beauvoir, coined the term "feminism," and their ideas about gender equality were formative for many feminist designers who came after.


These feminist designers had a unique approach to fashion: they sought to create garments that empowered women, rather than conforming to traditional expectations of what women should wear. They created garments that allowed for greater autonomy in terms of silhouette and fabric choice, and often used unconventional models to showcase their designs. 

 

Many designers also used fashion as a means to raise awareness of feminist issues and create messages of empowerment for women around the world. Although feminist fashion continues to evolve and change, the feminist movement remains an influential force in the fashion industry. 


Through its revolutionary ideas, feminist fashion has encouraged us all to think differently about clothing and how it can be used as a tool for personal expression. It is this spirit of feminist fashion that will continue to shape the way we dress for generations to come.


Evolution of the feminist movement in the fashion industry


The feminist movement has been influencing the fashion industry for many years. Over the decades, designers and brands have increasingly embraced feminist values and ideas in their designs and collections. 


In the 1960s, fashion designer Mary Quant was at the forefront of this feminist revolution with her innovative use of bright colors and short skirts to challenge traditional notions of femininity. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, feminist fashion designers such as Norma Kamali embraced feminist ideals in their collections to celebrate the power and strength of women. 


As feminism gained traction in the 1990s, fashion began to reflect it with bold looks that fit women's bodies and fought against gender stereotypes. 


Today, feminist fashion continues to evolve, with brands like Glossier and Isabel Marant creating feminist statements through their collections. Whether it's bright colors, bold prints or feminist slogans, the feminist movement has had a lasting influence on fashion and will continue to do so for years to come. 


The feminist movement has also changed the way fashion is marketed, with changes in the representation of women in fashion campaigns and magazines. 

 

In the past, many fashion campaigns focused on creating traditional ideals of beauty that emphasized thinness, whiteness and youth. However, as feminist values gained traction, marketing practices began to reflect feminist values by celebrating different body types, ethnicities, ages and genders. 


As feminist fashion continues to grow and evolve, these practices are likely to become even more widespread as brands continue to take a stand against unfair canons of beauty. 


The feminist movement has also led to changes in the fabrics and materials used in fashion designs. Many feminist designers have opted to use sustainable fabrics such as linen, cotton and hemp in their collections to support environmental justice causes. 


In addition, feminist fashion designers are now focusing on creating ethically produced garments made with respect for the environment and their workers. By advocating for ethical fashion practices, feminist fashion has helped shift the industry toward a more sustainable future.  


The feminist movement has had an immense impact on the fashion industry, and continues to be an important source of inspiration for many designers and brands. By challenging gender stereotypes and creating feminist statements through their designs, feminist fashion designers are helping to shape the future of fashion in powerful ways. 


Feminist movement in fashion since Vivienne Westwood


Vivienne Westwood is an iconic feminist designer and activist, renowned for her contribution to the feminist movement. Her avant-garde fashion designs have become synonymous with femininity and empowerment, embodying the modern feminist spirit.


 She has championed feminist causes through her work and activism, inspiring generations of women around the world. Her signature style is recognized for being cutting-edge and innovative, while still preserving her feminist message. She is a true trailblazer of the fashion industry, whose designs are timelessly stylish and always on the pulse of feminist trends. 


This feminist icon and her designs have blazed the trail for modern fashion, while still standing up for feminist causes. She has inspired many to take a stand against gender-based oppression, and she has been a major force in pushing forward feminist ideals.


 Through her work and activism, Vivienne has truly made an indelible mark on feminist history. To this day, her fashion designs are a testament to the power of feminist style, and will continue to influence future generations. 


Vivienne Westwood's influence has been immense in both the feminist movement and fashion industry – she is an inspiration to us all! 

Outfits ideas with our fashion staples and get inspired by the feminist movement

As we have mentioned, fashion is a form of expression, what better way to show your support to the feminist movement than wearing a look that empowers. We have selected some garments from our collection inspired by this movement.


The color that represents the feminist movement is purple, that's why we have chosen Venus Dress Purple by Kadu, satin dresses are in trend and a design like this one, has the versatility to wear it casual or in a more formal environment.


As an example of its more casual version, we chose the ankle boots from Bala Di Gala, LYRA BLACK, with them, you can express power, sophistication and style.


For accessories, we went for the Huggies Silver Zirconia Green And Purple by Iconique, reinforcing the color of the dress with zirconias of that color but with a touch of contrast in green tone. 


At On Post, you can find brands inspired and created by women, as well as a history of women's participation in the fashion world, and tips for creating looks that empower you.


By Katia Garcia

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