It’s a truth universally acknowledged that the right accessory can make any outfit look instantly more chic. But when it comes to fashion icons, a signature piece can do so much more– not just elevating a look, but defining entire decades. Whether it’s Jackie Kennedy’s signature pillbox hat or Paris Hilton’s iconic Juicy Couture velour tracksuit, certain timeless accessories help to immortalize figures that define the eras they inhabit. From screen stars of the golden age to glittering trendsetters of the modern age, join us as we take a closer look at some of the most iconic accessories of all time!
1. Exploring Iconic Accessory Pieces Through History
Throughout time, some accessories have become staples in the fashion world. They are even considered iconic because of how popular they have become. Here some of the most iconic accessory pieces that have evolved with our fashion tastes over the years:
- Charms and Pendants — Charms and pendants have been stylish since Ancient Egyptian times, when they were often worn for religious and spiritual significance. Today, pendants come in a range of styles to suit all fashion tastes.
- Belts — Wearing a belt has come in and out of fashion over the years, but it’s still popular today and used to complete (or draw the eye to) any look. From classic leather to skinny fabric styles, belts are an important and versatile piece of accessory.
- Earrings — Earrings have been popular for thousands of years, with the first being made of shell and bone. They were commonly used to denote wealth and social status. Today, they continue to be a fashion favourite, with a variety of styles available to suit all occasions.
In the past century, some accessories gained popularity that remains even today. The aviators, originally made for fighter pilots will forever be remembered in pop culture. Large and small, they are now available in fashion stores in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
Fur pieces like stoles, shoulder shawls, and full-length coats also remain a popular accessory for special occasions, mainly in colder climates. However, there is a great debate over whether it should still be considered fashionable, from an ethical standpoint.
2. Defining Accessories that Define Eras
Fashion trends often ebb and flow with the times, so it makes sense that accessories come and go as well. Like apparel, what was once on-trend can quickly become yesterday’s news. However, some accessories stand the test of time, while others become instant classics.
Fanny Packs: Some things just scream the ’90s. Fanny packs definitely come to mind. These small hip-hugging bags first gained popularity in the ’80s, and in the ’90s, they became a go-to for many fashionistas of the time. Who says being organized and having your hands free has to be out of style?
Face Masks: You know it’s 2020 when you see people wearing face masks! This accessory is definitely defining this era – it went from being used by medical professionals to something a person needs to wear in order to go out in public. While masks have been around since the 16th century, it wasn’t until this year that they became staples once again.
Fringe: Roaring twenties, anyone? Fringe is an accessory that never really goes out of style thanks to its versatility. One of the biggest trends in the summer of 2020 was 1920’s-inspired fringe bags and jackets. Its distinctive look has been a favorite of many fashionistas and doesn’t show any signs of disappearing anytime soon.
- Polka Dots
- Wide Brimmed Hats
- Cat Eye Glasses
- Combat Boots
These accessories are just a few of the ones that truly define eras. From the preppy polka dots of the ’50s to the loud and proud combat boots of the ’90s, each item has made an impact in the fashion world.
3. Timeless Quality of Fashion Icons
Fashion icons are the perennially stylish personalities who remain relevant and admired in the media. We can learn a great deal from their timeless quality in terms of style, attitude and confidence.
Take, for example, Diane Von Fustenberg. She has been a sparkplug of fashion since the ’70s, yet her approach to design has never faltered in its emphasis on comfort, elegance, and a refined celebration of the female form.
Dressing Appropriately: Fustenberg continually emphasizes the importance of dressing appropriately for all occasions. It’s all a matter of balance; a good look should never completely over- or underdress for the occasion you’re attending.
Injecting Personality: Fashion icons also embrace their individual style. Eloquence and presence are important, but they never forget to add their own flavor to their look, either through accessories, color choices, or other personal touches.
- Be aware of the occasion.
- Add personal flourishes.
- Choose quality over quantity.
- Bolster your confidence and presence.
These types of fashion icons have a timeless quality to their look and attitude that never fades from relevance. Remember to take inspiration from their style, but ultimately never forget to put your own spin on it – be the fashion icon you want to see in the world.
4. Captured in Time: A Look at Iconic Fashions
Fashion is one of the clearest reflections of changing culture and tastes. The iconic looks of past decades symbolize more than just clothing, they tell a story about that era.
- The ’90s – Simple silhouettes dominated the decade, with influences taken from grunge and hip-hop. Oversized T-shirts, denim jackets, and high waist mom jeans were just a few of the aesthetic darlings of the era.
- The 2000s -The early 2000s saw a revival of 70s–80s inspired trends, namely skinny jeans, leopard print, buckle belts, and velour tracksuits. A stronger sense of individual style started to come into play, with trends such as punk, goth, and boho inspiring the fashions of the time.
Today’s fashion is an eclectic mix of classic looks, current trends, and personal aesthetics. We can look back to past decades of fashion to see how it has changed over time and appreciate the influence our predecessors have on today’s style.
There are timeless pieces that still hold an important place in our closets, reinvented each season. Iconic looks always capture the imagination, and it’s a beautiful way to appreciate and honor the fashions of the past.
5. Forging the Future of Fashion’s Legacy
The fashion industry is continuously transforming and reforming in order to become a more sustainable, ethical, and equitable workplace. From sweeping changes to business models to the shift towards longer-term product development, the fashion sector is beginning to redefine the standard for what future fashion should look like.
The movement towards driving sustainable practices in the industry, is one of the most important initiatives for achieving impactful reform. As the industry looks for ways to reduce its environmental footprint, and to develop better practices to mitigate climate change, it is leaving behind a legacy of commitment to the climate. Businesses are sourcing better materials, such as organic or recycled fabrics, as well as investing in sustainable dyeing and printing technologies, which are helping to reduce energy consumption.
The fashion industry is also hard at work cultivating a more ethical working environment. In an effort to level the playing field in terms of equitable and fair labor practices, designers, manufacturers, and consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the standards of the global supply chain. To achieve a more ethical environment in production, companies are utilizing auditing systems, encouraging transparency, and developing more diverse industrials partnership networks.
As a result of these efforts, we can begin to see a future in fashion that places a greater emphasis on these issues. This will no doubt create a lasting impact on how fashion is produced, consumed, and valued. Progressive change is taking place and the industry is forging a more ethical, equitable, and sustainable future.
From the beehive of the ’50s to the edgy leather jackets of the ’90s, fashion icons remain the lasting focal point of each era. They are the inspirations who shape the trends and provide us with classic, timeless pieces that can transcend the years. These fashion icons have enriched and shaped the cultural identity of fashion and the styles it has produced, pushing forward the evolution of taste and design. They remain an iconic reminder of the past, and the dream of the future.
