Trend Alert: Post-Retro
- Hannah Allport
- Dec 21, 2016
- 2 min read
For my first summative brief as an FCP student I was given the trend Post-Retro to begin to research to produce a written piece for the context part of the brief. Post-retro fashion is making a comeback once again for A/W16 and is showing no signs of slowing down. This is a trend I have seen make an appearance the last few A/W seasons in various forms such as colour, texture, fit/tailor and materials.
Post-retro fashion is fashion trends made famous in the late 1960's / early 1970's, when flower power began to die and more earthy natural tones. The turn of the 70's brought a more neutral colour palette to fashion with darker more muted colours. This sudden change in the colour palette is thought to be due to the sudden change in the economy. The 1970's economy saw great struggle and suffering as, in the UK, unemployment levels reached a new high and frequents strikes were held against the governments new plans. This ultimately led to the election in 1975, where Margaret Thatcher became the new woman in charge. Margaret Thatcher's rise in parliament is reflective in the fashion trend of the 70's in its tailored fit garments and suited style. These masculine forms were a huge feature of the post-retro trend amongst women, illustrating great power and strength. This may have been encouraged by Thatcher's 'Iron Lady' persona inspiring women across the UK. Post-retro fashion has a very autumnal colour palette, which makes it an appropriate trend for A/W.
Patterns are another great feature of the post-retro trend. The flower power became more natural and subtle as the 60's became the 70's however, the 70's saw other bold prints such as block horizontal stripes, chevron and other geometric forms. This is an element of the trend I am a great fan of. Patterned tops and accessories allow you to add elements of a trend whilst still re-wearing your staple pieces in your wardrobe. Post- retro fashion also experiments with materials and textures that when layered for A/W can create really unique and interesting outfits.
From my secondary research I really like the different elements of the post-retro trend that is back for 2016 and is predicted to be in trend for the following A/W. It is a trend showing no signs of slowing down and I look forward to progressing in this summative brief.
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