A history of fashion's obsession with black clothes

December 22, 2022

Black has always been synonymous with fashion. From Coco Chanel’s iconic little black dress to the punk-inspired fashions of the 1980s, black clothing has been a constant in the world of fashion. But why is black so popular? What is it about this color that makes it so desired by designers, celebrities, and everyday people alike?

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the history of fashion's obsession with black clothes and explore why black continues to be such an enduring trend in fashion.

The 1800s

In the 1800s, fashion's obsession with black clothes began to take hold. Women began to wear more somber and serious clothing, as opposed to the brighter and more colorful outfits of the previous century. Black became a popular color for clothing because it was seen as sophisticated and stylish. Many women also began to wear veils and other pieces of jewelry that added to the somber look of their outfit.

Free photo portrait of a beautiful young woman in red cap standing in front of ancient building

The 1900s

The 1900s were a time of great change in the fashion world. Hemlines rose and fell, waistlines shifted, and new fabrics and silhouettes were introduced. But one constant throughout this decade was the color black.

Black has always been a popular color in fashion, but in the early 1900s it became truly chic. In an era where clothing was often heavily embellished and decorated, black provided a sleek and elegant contrast. It was also seen as a sign of sophistication and wealth.

The 2010s

The 2010s was a decade defined by fashion's obsession with black clothes. Every season, it seemed like every designer was offering up their own unique take on the color black. And while some may have argued that the trend was overdone, there's no denying that black is a timeless color that always looks chic.

From Givenchy's iconic "little black dress" to Dior's edgy all-black ensembles, the 2010s was a decade filled with beautiful black clothing. And while the trend may have eventually run its course, there's no doubt that black will always be an important part of fashion history.

Free photo retro girls in a city

Black clothing in film and pop culture

Since the early days of film, black has been a popular color for clothing on screen. In the 1930s and 1940s, black was often used to convey sophistication, glamour, and mystery. Some of the most iconic films of this era, such as The Maltese Falcon (1941) and Casablanca (1942), featured characters wearing black clothes.

In more recent decades, black has been used in a variety of ways in film and pop culture. It can be used to convey power, as in the James Bond films; it can be used for comic effect, as in Tim Burton's Batman films; or it can be used to create a sense of suspense or danger, as in the horror film The Ring (2002).

Conclusion

From its origins as a sign of status and wealth to its current reputation as a timeless, elegant choice for any occasion, black clothing has maintained an important place in the world of fashion. Its versatility makes it easy to incorporate into any style and there are endless ways to wear this classic color.

The impact that black clothing has had on modern fashion is undeniable and will likely continue for years to come.

Share this