connotations of fashion - denim

Fashion has different connotations for different people. Wearing a pink jumper as a man and as a woman for example, would mean a very different thing and make different statements to the world.

 Although we give the clothes we wear our own personal connotations, we also carry all the connotations that the style of garment has collected over the years or decades. All garments were inspired by something/ an existing garment with its own meaning and history, however with fashion classics such as denim jeans, the connotations are clear and memorable for everyone. 

Denim was first used in the 1900s as utility wear strictly for men. A comfortable and practical garment, it still lives up to this connotation and use in a way.

In the 50's/60's denim was used as a kind of uniform for rebellious anti establishment youths...

And in the 70's jeans where a part of the hippie peace and love movement...

In the 80's jeans became sexy and desirable...

 

and the 90's was grunge...

Before this i had never properly considered how we carry all a garments history and connotations when we wear it. I love that all these connotations are still in a way being expressed, and it is exciting to think about what new meaning denim and any other garments are picking up. I love the idea of fashion being more than just a garment, but having deeper meaning; eg, feminism is portrayed in a lot of clothes, including jeans as it was once not acceptable for woman to wear trousers.

 I will definitely think more when i wear certain clothes now, about what they mean and what vibe i may be unintentionally giving off by wearing them.