As the 20th century came to a close, fashion reached its most casual. Both men and women adopted grunge fashion in the early part of the decade and loose, oversized clothing and jeans became staples. As the decade progressed, women’s fashion became more streamlined as minimalism became de rigueur, while children’s clothing often featured popular Disney characters.
This dramatic motorcycle-inspired bustier from Mugler’s spring 1992 show was fashionable, if not wearable, and has since been celebrated for its fierce theatricality.
Galliano’s stringy suede shimmy dress from the 1996 F/W Baby Maker collection captured the originality and innovative qualities of Galliano’s work – but also the appropriation of Native American cultures that he indulged in at this time.
This Spring/Summer 1999 ensemble combines angel wings with Arts and Crafts-style woodworking in a statement by McQueen that broke the mold of ’90s minimalism.
1860 – Cream silk evening dress
1948-1987 – Willi Smith
1952 – Christian Dior, La Cigale
1882 – John Singer Sargent, El Jaleo
1856 – Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, Madame Moitessier