If you’re someone who has never worked a day in the fashion industry, you probably think that it is all about clothing, and that there’s no difference between a garment from a reputable brand and one that you can get at your local Target. However, for those who live and breathe fashion, the history, culture, and stories behind the trends and fabrics is what actually counts, and trust us when we say there’s no shortage of fun, tragic, and wholesome facts related to this industry. If you too want to learn more about it, here are some fascinating stories about fashion that might just change how you see your wardrobe.
The Trench Coat Was Born… in the Trenches
We’re so used to seeing trench coats everywhere that we never wonder where they came from, and yes, the name “trench coat” isn’t just a catchy label. This beloved piece has literal roots in warface, and it was created by Thomas Burberry (does the name ring a bell?) during World War I and designed specifically for British soldiers fighting in the trenches. This explains why the trench coat is so durable and resistant to any weather, as well as all its functional details like storm flaps and epaulets.
The Name “Tweed” Was Created by Accident
Tweed is an iconic fabric, and today we can’t imagine our lives without our trusted suits, caps, and Irish bags made of this material, but its name is actually nothing else than a result of a misread label. Tweed was originally called “tweel”, which is the Scottish term for twill, but in the 1980s, a merchant from London mistook the handwritten “tweel” for “tweed,” assuming it referred to the River Tweed in Scotland. No matter what it’s called, tweed is an amazing fabric, highly appreciated for its durability, structure, and distinctive texture that makes every garment and accessory, from imposing overcoats to sleek tweed bags, a must in your wardrobe.
The Importance of Button Placements
Have you ever noticed that men’s shirts button left over right, while women’s button the opposite way? This detail is not by any means accidental, and it dates back to the Victorian era. Back then, men dressed themselves and needed the buttons on the right for easier access to weapons. Women of the time, however, were typically dressed by maids, so their buttons were placed on the left to suit a right-handed servant. This is a small but fascinating nod to the social norms of the past, and it’s one more thing to add to your “fun conversation starter” list.
Louis Vuitton Bags are Fireproof (and Waterproof)
It’s no secret that Louis Vuitton bags are symbols of luxury, but did you know they’re also nearly indestructible? One of the reasons they cost so much is because the coated canvas material that the brand uses to create its bags is not only waterproof but also fire-resistant. This was part of the brand’s commitment to durability when it started crafting travel trunks in the 19th century. So, if you’ve always had an LV bag in your wishlist, maybe it’s time to finally get it – after all, it’s not just about style, but survival too!
The White Wedding Dress Was a Marketing Move
When was the last time you’ve seen a bride wear anything other than white? And have you ever wondered where the classic “white wedding dress rule” originated? Well, we have to thank Queen Victoria for that! Before her wedding in 1840, white wasn’t the default for such events, and brides typically wore their best dress, regardless of color. Queen Victoria was the one who chose the white dress as a symbol of purity, and it soon became a trend among the wealthy. Later on, the whole wedding industry quickly latched onto this idea, transforming this garment into a real marketing goldmine.
The Bikini Was Named After a Nuclear Test Site
Today, bikinis are the go-to type of swimwear for women, and chances are you have a couple of them stored in a box and waiting for the summer vacation. A century ago, however, nobody would have even dared to think of wearing something as scandalous to the beach, that’s until Louis Réard introduced them in 1946. This French designer created the iconic two-piece and named it after the Bikini Atoll, a site of nuclear testing in the Pacific Ocean, believing that his invention would create an explosion in the fashion world similar to a nuclear blast. He wasn’t wrong – even though the bikini was heavily criticized at first, it definitely revolutionized swimwear and these days we can see it on every woman.
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