We have all, at some point, learned of the Ancient Greeks and Romans. We have learned the facts of the democracy, plays, and archetectural types we have derived from the culture. However, we have adopted not only ideas, but fashions as well. Take the image of a Grecian man draped in bulks of white fabric. This style was transformed into a modern look by fashion designer Madeleine Vionnet in the 1920s. Vionnet recognized the beauty of the loose, flowing look the Greeks sported, and set the basis for the modernized look by instituting cuts and fabrics that emphasized fluidity and curvature of a body in motion. Through decades designers have added signature touches to the look; one shoulder cuts, ruched tops, and cinched waists dominate the red carpet and department stores alike.
Gladiator shoes can also be attributed to the the Romans, who wore leather-made sandals, complete with soft soles and straps stretching acroos the top of the foot for precise fit. Shoe stores are now dominated by this strappy look, tweaked and decorated with modern, marketable details. Designers have further dipped into the original Roman look by crafting the straps to wrap further up the calf. When paired with a colorful Grecian draped dress, a sleek, chic look can be achieved.
I like when you provide background information for common fashion items, when I would never normally think about their origins. It makes me curious what other ideas we've taken adpapted from foreign or ancient cultures.
ReplyDeleteI really appreciate the fact that you incorperated basic information about the Greeks and Romans rather than the modern designer who made it know today. It shows that you have a true appreciation for fashion and its origin. I always look forward to reading your posts because there is always the history behimf the fashion.
ReplyDeleteEvery time i read your blog I am reminded that there's much more to fashion than colors and styles! Great job!
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