MONDRL4N DRESS

FIG. MONDRL4N DRESS

  Fashion was increasingly becoming unisex, reflecting a gradual breaking down of long established traditions of gender dressing. For the first time men and women were shopping at the same boutique fpr jeans, trousers, jackets sweaters and shirts. From 1968 the optimistic social and economic climate of the early 60's started to fade as unemployment and inflation rose, people began to question the human and environmental consequences of technology and women began to rebel against imposed ideals of feminine beauty. Fashion has sometimes been criticized for lacking direction in the years following the swinging sixties, the period from the Late 60's to the mid 70's. But it was infact this period which paved way for the stylistic pluralism of the present day. Individuality and self-expression were paramount. Clothing was often customized with embroidered, appliqued and patch worked designs. Tie and Dye T-Shirt became popular. Colours were muted and textiles were made from natural fibers. The ethnic look pre-dominated. Hippies were the first to adopt Afghan Coats, fringed suede garments, Kaftans, headbands and beads as part of their rejection of western consumerist society. In the USA in 1971, Ralph Lauren, who had made his name with his "Polo" line for men produced a line of tailored suits for women. Calvin Klein also designed stylish women's clothing along masculine lines.