The Iconic Wrap Dress
Stood the test of time In today’s contemporary world of fast fashion, it’s rare that a style or silhouette will stay on trend for very long. For any silhouette to stand the test of time, especially in this current, fast-paced industry is quite a feat, and few come to mind. However, there are a few iconic exceptions, one of which is the timeless wrap dress.
While the wrap dress is of course linked with Diane Von Furstenberg and the 1970’s, this particular silhouette was around for several decades prior, and continues to be a staple in every modern day woman’s wardrobe.
The Wrap dress is born.
So how did the wrap dress come about; and how did it manage to not only stand the test of time, but also ever-changing world of fast fashion?
The wrap dress first emerged in the 1930’s designer Charles James was taking the fashion world by storm with his designs he looked upon his dresses as works of art, as did many of his customers. Elsa Schiaparelli also designed several wrap dresses during the 1930’s. By the 40’s Clare McCardell ‘s version the “pop over dress” gained popularity. The dress was Clare’s adaptation to the lifestyle of women during World War II. Moving forward 30years to early 1970’s a young Diane Von Furstenberg had arrived in the US .She brought with her a suitcase full of dresses she had created while working at an Italian Mill owned by friend Angelo Ferretti. The simple wrap dress was hardly considered by Von Furstenberg a fashion revelation just a little something she would sell in the US. While Diane Von Furstenberg did not invent the silhouette she certainly perfected it. Her version is an iconic design in fashion history.
The wrap dress not only fits the body well. It fits perfectly to the lifestyle of the modern woman. It combines beauty and practicality, which is more important than ever in the busy fashion world. An ultimate staple likely to feature on runways and grace wardrobes for many years to come. I love the silhouette of the wrap it features in a number of my designs. What is your favourite dress style !
