In celebration of Elon’s 125 years, we were curious to find out how the university’s fashion has changed since its birth. From the corsets of the 19th century to the shoulder pads of the 1980s, we’re looking at all the decades of fashion shown right here on Elon’s campus. Hold on tight and prepare for our school’s throwback of the century.
From the time Elon was founded in 1889 to the early 1900s, modest fashion at the time consisted of full-length dresses, corsets, lace and tight collars. Narrow shoes and baggy trousers were popular for men, as were wide overcoats. More masculine silhouettes started to appear into the 1920s with shapeless fits, dropped waists and the iconic image of the flapper. Moving into the 1930s we saw a more militarized look with square shoulders and military inspiration. Military met Hollywood Glam in the 1940s with sleek curve-hitting dresses, pumped-up makeup, curled hair and classic sleekness.
The 1950s introduced us to poodle skirts, simple white t-shirts and leather jackets. Remind you of Grease? Feminine dresses made a comeback and created the iconic 1950s image. Tweed, high-waisted skirts and synthetic fabrics defined this decade, as did tea-length dresses and full skirts. The hippie revolution of the 1960s rocked headbands and earth tones. This decade’s collectively bohemian style characterized the free-spiritedness of the generation. Mod style and plaid patters of the 1960s transformed into polyester and denim in the 1970s. The age of the disco brought out shorter skirts and high-waisted bottoms eventually leading up to the punk movement. Flannel was popular for the men as were large bowties and longer hair. Feathered and sleek hair for the ladies was seen in this decade and played a large contrast to what was about to come.
Shoulder pads, crimped hair and legwarmers, oh my! The 1980s were anything but subtle with bright colors and bright makeup for the girls. Big hair and even bigger prints represented the decade. Don’t forget about the ankle socks! White ankle socks were a 1980s staple and paired with sneakers, it was trendy look everyone had to have. Moving into 1990s, grunge took over. More simplistic and neutral patterns and colors were introduced and black became more popular than ever. In the early 2000s, girls sported trendy choker necklaces and middle-parts and the guys rocked frosted tips. The denim moved from high-rise to low-rise with both men and women.
Back to the future! Looking at modern day, we millennials have recycled numerous past trends. High-waisted styles are back and vintage looks highlight the best parts each decade has given us. Our generation is known for our skinny jeans and leggings as well as our recent obsession with yoga pants. Looking back on Elon’s 125 years of fashion shows the distinct image each decade holds. What will Elon students think of our current style 125 years from now?