Defining fashion in the 21st Century

When starting to think about what defined the 21^st century so far, I seemed to struggle. Over the last 11 years I couldn’t pin point any mainstream fashion styles that have set the trends. When looking back over the previous eras, we symbolize each era with a cliché such as 1960s hippie and mod culture or 1980’s punk/rock style, however so far the 21^st century has re visited so many different styles its hard to distinguish a description of the decade that’s gone by.  It seems as though the 21^st century is less about creating new styles but more about regenerating the trends from past eras.

The past is always a source of inspiration and influential designers of the 21^st century such as Alexander McQueen, Marc Jacobs, Stella McCartney and Galliano all revert back to the previous eras for ideas for their latest collections, whilst bringing a modern twist which is then publicised/ shown in an innovative new way. From the early 21^st century fashion shows became more elaborate and theatrical, larger venues, allowing exciting and creative ways to showcase the collections.

Another aspect that I thought of was the recession and the impact that would have had and will continue to have on the 21^st century. Although many people may take influence from the designers and the current trends set, it is still said that the money wont be spent in the higher end designer stores but the value high street shops.

I thought in order to get a feeling of some of the 21^st century fashion I would indulge into some of the most influential designers/ brands of the time so far, Firstly John Galliano.  Although he hit some scandal over an alleged anti-Semitic tirade in a Paris bar, causing his dismissal at Dior which begun on 1^st march 2011, he is still an un-miss able piece of the puzzle over the fashion decades, not missing a creative beat within the 21^st century including snippets over many previous periods, Goth rock trench, 1950’s silhouettes and many more. Not forgetting bringing creative drama and excitement with every collection, often emphasised by the elaborate accessories and props.  

Stella McCartney is the 21^st century girl who created her fashion house early century showing her first collection October 2001. McCartney has grew and grew jumping into different areas of the fashion world, such as Adidas by Stella McCartney in 2004, collaboration with high street brand h&m in 2005 (completely selling out) and 2010 new born up to 14years range.  What brings McCartney out in the new age is her refusal of animal skins and use of fur in her designs and incorporation of sustainable practices, Stella being recognized as ‘queen of eco-fashion’

The last designer that I’m going to touch base upon for the influence within the 21^st century is the Alexander McQueen brand. McQueen has always been known for his eccentric vision and unbounded imagination within his designs and how to accessorize those to the maximum. He was named international designer of the year twice in the 21^st century and his brand was greatly continued by new creative director Sarah Burton. Burton claiming her own right to the stage with global recognition after designing Kate Middleton’s wedding dress. Furthermore in 2012, she was named in Time 100, an annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

In conclusion With TV & internet giving access to global trends and fashion, the public in the 21^stcentury are not restricted to particular fashion but with the on going references back to the previous trends we can pick and choose our favorite’s incorporating our own contemporary twists perhaps ideas from the leading designers or high street brands.