From the powdered wigs of the American Revolution to the bright liberty caps of the French Revolution, fashion played an important role in both national uprisings. Revolutionary fashion was an outward display of individuals’ allegiance to their cause, and also an expression of patriotism and pride. This article will take a look at the unique and inspirational styles and motifs utilized by fashionistas of both revolutions.
I. A Brief History of Revolutionary Fashion
Fashion has always been linked to the way we dress abroad. But clothing has also long been used to create unique and meaningful statements about the world we live in. Revolutionary fashion in particular saw fashion being used to illustrate the frustrations of society and push for a positive change.
At the turn of the 20th century, suffragists embracing a more French-inspired style made a political statement. They utilized elaborate outfits symbolizing beauty and power, and also opted for broad hats and long skirts that not only characterized the absolutism and liberation of the era, but also allowed female figures to stand out in public spaces.
Modern revolutionary fashion was born out of the Paris protests of 1968. The idea of peaceful resistance through fashion ignited the punk movement and the rise of countercultural fashion. Through anti-fashion and deconstructed garments, this movement served as a powerful representation of the youth rebellion and passive aggression against authority.
Nowadays, artists and designers have taken over the mantle of revolutionary fashion speeches, taking up questions around race, class, gender inequality, and the fight against consumer culture. By using a vast range of media and resources, they’ve been able to construct fashion for the digital age with the purpose of driving meaningful conversations about socio-political topics.
II. Styles Unique to the American Revolution
Fashion Trends of the Revolution
No matter the region, every colony had its own special flair when it came to fashion during the American Revolution. Women’s fashion was dominated by wide, bell-shaped skirts and brightly colored waistcoats. Colonial fashion was often simple yet elegant and depended heavily on the wearer’s class and station in life. Men’s fashion had its own unique appeal, too. Simple yet elegant coats and breeches were the standard uniform of the Revolutionary War. With little access to foreign fabrics, local woolens for mantles, vests, and pantaloons were the preferred materials, especially amongst the Patriots.
The Hue of Patriotism
But while fashion was heavily influenced by European fashions, many colonists chose to make subtle changes that demonstrated their commitment to the Revolution and their new national identity. To this end, patriots adopted a distinct style of dress based around the blue, white, and red hues of the American flag. The tricolor motif could be found everywhere: waistcoats, hoods, necklaces, petticoats, and mantles all featured the particular colors. Even children wore these symbols of patriotism on their clothing.
Headpieces and Adornments
Accessories rounded out the revolutionary look. From headpieces to earrings, Revolutionary-era fashion was adorned with a variety of jewels and ornaments. For women, headpieces were a requirement, made out of an array of fabrics – sprigged muslins, taffeta, and linen – and features intricate designs on crowns and under-hoops. As for men, straw hats were the preferred choice, often decorated with feathers and jewels. Gold jewelry featuring crescent moons also became popular amongst the men as a sign of loyalty to the cause.
III. Examining French Revolution Fashion Trends
The French Revolution ushered a new era in fashion for the nation of France and all of Europe. It marked a crucial shift in how people dressed and the clothes they chose to don. One hallmark of the trend at the time was color. Suddenly, bright shades, prints, and florals began appearing in all sorts of clothing.
No longer was a person’s outfit limited to drab and dreary monochromes. Instead, garments now were covered in vibrant reds, blues, yellows, and pinks. Additionally, fabrics like silk, organza, and satin began to replace woollen materials. While the majority of the style during this era was practical and rustic, occasional pieces of ornate and luxurious artwork could be spotted in large cities and among the wealthy classes.
The fashion of the French Revolution also made wide strides in terms of gender-based design. Women’s clothing, in particular, began to move away from the conventions that restricted it before. Freer designs meant using fewer layered garments and more open styles. Bows, feathers, ribbons, and lace were used to adorn outfits and add a more feminine touch.
In the end, the fashion landscape of France and the rest of Europe drastically changed due to the advent of the French Revolution. New colors, fabrics, styles, and designs all play a role in defining the fashion of the time.
IV. Bridging the Revolutionary Gap with Contemporary Style
Fashions of the past continue to inspire us today, from classic silhouettes to cutting-edge modern designs. Bridging the gap between revolutionary style and modern trends is a challenge, but one that many designers have taken on with creativity and contemporary flair.
- Modern tailoring is all about taking the classic look and updating it with fresh, modern details. Think of denim jeans and blazers with unexpected twists, like exaggerated shapes, embroidery, and unique colour combinations.
- Extreme tailoring is another trend that has emerged in recent years, featuring exaggerated cuts, oversized shapes and dramatic fabrics to make a bold statement.
Upcycling is a great way to bridge the revolutionary gap while still staying connected to the past. Take vintage pieces and give them a new life by recycling fabrics, buttons and zippers to create something completely original and contemporary.
Finally, personalisation lets you put your own creative twist on classic styles. With a few simple tweaks, you can take any look from revolutionary eras and make it uniquely yours with customisation and individual details.
V. How to Wear Revolutionary Fashion in 2021
- Prints with a Purpose: Shake up your wardrobe this year with chic prints that make bold statements both on and off the rack. Look for unique tailored pieces with graphic or vintage motifs that give a nod to the revolutionary trends of the past – think vivid paisleys, animal prints, and florals.
- Revisit Retro Silhouettes: 2021 is a great time to channel your inner nostalgic and take a stroll down fashion memory lane! With trends like statement shoulders, cinched waists, and ruched skirts, now is the time to bring back some of the golden age glamour. These vintage-style silhouettes offer timeless elegance that will take you from day to night.
- Powder Pink Power: Powder pink is the perfect way to bring a sense of softness to your revolutionary style. Urban denim, leather separates, and tailored coats peppered with touches of pretty pastels will help you stay on-trend and on-message, whether you’re rocking a pantsuit or a chic dress.
- Structured Accessories: Structured accessories are making a splash in 2021, so layer up your look with chunky jewelry, minimalistic bags, and other statement pieces. Go for pieces that look modern and edgy while also showing off your fashionable prowess.
Add a little rebel spirit to your wardrobe this year and be sure to show off your revolutionary style. With bold prints, statement accessories, and retro silhouettes, make a statement with your fashion and let your rebellious side shine.
In decades that were characterized by upheaval and drive for progress, fashion played an important part for both the American and French revolutions. It was an outward expression of solidarity, and transition from one era to another. Revolutionary style was an integral part of history-changing experiences, and its influence will likely continue to be felt far into the future.
