In the days before the Second World War, fashion was dominated by the menswear industry – specifically the men’s clothing industry. The flapper was very much just a symbol for female emancipation and, in some ways, an antidote that women who wanted to be “feminine” were not only being denied but were being ostracised for being deemed too “masculine”.
When the Second World War broke out and women suddenly found themselves in a difficult time financially and sexually, some flappers found that they had to step out of their comfort zones and give a bit of a “fuck you”. It was a way they could give them a voice – and more importantly, it was a way to show they were just trying to do their bit to help the women around them who were at the mercy of men – “You can’t take it!”
Do you think there are still flappers today?
They’re still around! The most famous flapper of all time might be the fashion designer Anna Wintour, who was famously known for her dress choices and her fashion tips to celebrities. It’s hard to say whether she’s a flapper or not – she’s only become a super-famous fashion designer in the last few years. I would say that most flappers I meet aren’t that overtly “flirty.” Many just want to get their message across – as with her most recent book “A Tale of Two Cats,” there’s a “fuck you” part to it.
Read more: Fashion Week: The Flapper (1960s)
Do you think that fashion has changed since the 1960s?
I think fashion has changed and many of our ideas are evolving. My favourite thing to wear in the world is nothing at all, but when you make a statement, everyone believes. I think fashion is about creating this idea of a moment in time. Fashion is where it all comes from – it’s not just an expression or a fashion show.
How do you think the fashion industry would look different with a generation or two ahead of it?
In a couple of years’ time I believe they’ll be able to be a bit more liberated. People in the past had more agency in their look. There weren’t a lot of people who could say, “I’m a little bit out there…” There are enough female designers who can do fashion, but I’m still really worried that they’ll forget what it was like to be female and express themselves the way
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