1920s fashion is something which has often been misrepresented over time – many believe that there was this sudden complete change in fashion trends where there was no relation to previous clothes of other periods, however it is quite the opposite. From a 21st century spectacle, hearing that women's clothing in the 20s were drastically shorter, or the use of one material was used far more commonly, makes it seem as if clothing changed from floor length to knee length overnight however that’s only if one were to hear this without any further research. In the 21st century, 5 or 10-centimeters difference seems rather trivial, however these were gradual changes as time progressed. Knowing this information already deepens the understanding of clothing from this time. Through the duration of the early 1920s, the majority of clothing – of this specific style that is often referred to as 20s style – would reach around calf length, which already seems far different to ones expectations. As the 20s progressed, the dresses did get shorter, in 1927 they were reaching right below the knee. If one were to dramatize 20s clothing, it would appear that the evolution of clothing through time made a sudden outbreak in the 20s, which although there were many changes, were also implemented through a course and not in immediate action.  

 

One commonly referred to statement revolving around the 20s is that they were known for this ‘liberation of knees’ however the majority of 1920s dresses didn’t reach that, it was around the 1960’s or so where that became common. This, however, doesn’t take into consideration other garments of the decade. The 1920s were the shortest dresses shown, however that above knee length weren't really shown in mainstream fashion. 

 

So, the question that lies is what did 1920s women really wear? One of the most popular garments would’ve solely been cotton pullover dresses which through the decade evolved, and the silhouette was rather straight and loose. Edging to the end of the decade, the clothing did become more complex and sophisticated, however far less than dramatized media puts up. Hats were still a staple in fashion with the most renowned being cloche hats but also straw hats and turbans were relatively popular.  

 

 

Image from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1920s_in_Western_fashion