Assignment 5.1 - Compilation of Historical Styles

Folkloric Costume 

The cowboy is a look, style, and way of living unique to America. During the western expansion of the United States, the cowboy became an iconic figure; known often to be wild and dangerous. Countless films have been produced over the years based on the theme of ‘the cowboy’. Moreover, the cowboy look frequently pops up in many designers’ collections periodically. 

This folkloric look so often co-insides with the cowboy look; hence the childhood game cowboys and Indians. Different interpretations of this look also appear on the runways periodically; although perhaps more sporadically then the cowboy look.

Ethnic Costume

African costume is an example of ethnic costume in Western Culture. This particular look also impacts modern fashion. It is historically important and also very real social and political impacts to this day. 

This is an example of ethnic costume in Western Culture: the Geisha. Asian culture has provided a sense of mystery to Westerners since the days of Marco Polo and continues to this day. Memoirs of a Geisha was nominated for six academy awards in 2005 and won three. The word Geisha most simply translated to English means an entertainer. 

Medieval Revival 

Alexander McQueen Fall 2007 ready-to-wear. Another modern interpretation of medieval costume. The body is completely covered; however, unlike medieval costume this modern take is form fitting, flattering, and sexy. Sexy today is most always desired; however, in medieval times it was frowned upon to say the least. 

Alexander McQueen Fall 2006 ready-to-wear. Modern medieval with a twist. This modern interpretation clearly takes elements from different time periods; however, the top half of this costume is remarkably similar to what Theodora may have worn during the Byzantine era. 

Classical Revival

This light and airy number by Chanel, circa 2007, is an example of a modern twist on classical costume. It is essentially a sewn tunic with sleeves. 

Giorgio Armani Spring 2005 ready-to-wear. This dress is reminiscent of ancient classical costume for women. 

Medieval Costume

Empress Theodora depicted center wearing an outer tunic known as a dalmatic. This costume was the common uniform for women of privilege during this time. Fine fabrics were used during this period in this part of Europe. It is during this time that Western Europe seeps deeper into the Dark Ages; people become illiterate and art stops being produced essentially. However, the Byzantine Empire thrives. 

A portrait of a woman during medieval times. Note the lace veil, hair shaved to make the forehead larger, and odd hair shape. These were the ideals of beauty during the transition from the Dark Ages into the Renaissance. 

Classical Costume

Socrates speaking to Plato in Athens; both in classical costume. This painting, by Raphael is one of the most famous works of art in Western Culture. These men are most important to note for their thoughts and ideas shaped Western Society as we know it. 

A young boy in classical clothing. Note the many layers of fabrics and the way in which it is draped.