"During the Great Depression as well as during World War II, shortages and limitations caused a number of developments in the fashion world in terms of materials used, production methods and trends. For example, during World War II the "Made Do and Mend" policy was instituted, which one might consider the pre-cursor to the DIY movement we find ourselves in now. Additionally, rubber shortages during WWII led shoemakers to turn to other materials to make their soles (most notably wood and cork).
Perhaps though, people will turn to fashion (or other forms of ‘entertainment’) to escape their everyday doldrums, as was done with film during the Great Depression. Alexander McQueen agreed in a recent article for the Independent, saying "in times of recession, I think fashion is escapism." Designer Narcisso Rodriquez, disagrees, noting in Time Magazine that "When times get tough, people want things that are real and lasting."
The real question is, what will we see today’s designers producing to help their customers deal with increasing costs? The recession and war combined with the new Eco-Chic are sure to bring some interesting innovations."
Click 'save this' and signup with wists to add to a wishlist alongside items from any website
