The history of evening gowns dates back to the 15th-century Europe. Although in the early days of these gowns, these were reserved for noble women and royalties, as these were considered opulent.
However, in the modern era, these are worn to celebrate special occasions with sophistication and elegance.
Today, let’s explore vintage evening gowns throughout history.
Era of Opulence (16th to 18th Century)
This was the era when trading expanded, and people were inventing new methods of weaving, resulting in intricate dresses.
With that said, these were still reserved for royalties, not even for upper-class women. Undoubtedly, it was a way to show off your wealth and, of course, wigs.
Style: Low necklines with lace, sleeves with ribbons, and wide skirts with farthingales.
The Era of Revolution (Early 19th Century)
At the dawn of the 19th century and the end of the French Revolution, evening gowns and fashion, in general, were transformed. Gowns were also adopted in formal settings beyond royal courts.
During this time, women favored more classical themes that were not so constricting.
Style: Wide neckline, sleeveless, and high-waisted, empire-style skirts.
The Victorian Era (Late 19th Century)
As mentioned above, women who were not royalties began to wear such outfits. These were seen throughout London and Paris.
Being a part of every woman’s wardrobe now, designers began to change certain aspects of the dresses as per their needs. This is where we witnessed a rise in romantic styles.
Style: High neckline, tight full sleeve, and low-waisted, empire-style skirts.
The Edwardian Era (Early 20th Century)
In the early 1900s, the “Gibson Girl” S-shaped silhouette was regarded as the peak of beauty and appropriate for formal events.
This style favored unrealistically slim waistlines with curved and arching bosoms.
Style: Wide neckline, puffed full sleeve, and tight waistline with wide empire-style skirts.
The Flapper Era of the 1920s
Following World War 1, things started to become a bit more relaxed (from the traditional formal wear perspective).
During this time, the unrealistic beauty standards died down, and the flapper era began. The historical 1920s evening gowns became squarer and allowed for a more easy movement.
Style: Wide neckline, puffed full sleeve, and tight waistline with wide empire-style skirts.
The Glamourous 1930s
As the world fell face-first into the economic depression, 1930s women's evening wear saw a significant change in styling.
The “less is more” mentality began seeping into fashion. Therefore, unnecessary elements were removed, yet glamour was kept intact with bias-cut silk and satin sheath styles.
Style: Off shoulder, both sleeveless and tight sleeves, and empire-style waistline.
The Glorious 1950s to 1970s
This is the time when Christian Dior introduced “The New Look.” In a way, this can be considered as the return of opulence in women’s fashion.
In addition to ball gowns, Dior also introduced cocktail dresses and other formal attire. These were all the rage until 1970s.
Style: Strapless, cinched waistline, and A-lines.
The Extravagant 1980s and 1990s
When the Dior fever died down, the world decided it was time for extravagant outfits for formal events.
This was the time when not just evening gowns but even prom dresses and other formal dresses were finished with excess details. Bold patterns, ruffles, and oversized bows were everywhere.
Style: Low V necklines, cinched waistline, ruffles, and wide skirt.
The 2000s and Present
From the early 2000s to the modern ball gowns of today, there have been little changes in the overall silhouette of the gowns.
Some designers took the approach towards a cleaner look with minimal details and clean lines. While others decided to stick to the roots of these dresses and focus on adding embellishments and intricate details.
The modern ball gown silhouette can be slightly related to the Edwardian Era; however, with less emphasis on arched bosoms. Think more of an hourglass shape.
What Will be the Future of Evening Gowns?
From the opulent ball gowns of the 18th century to the sleek and modern designs of today, evening gowns have evolved to become a symbol of elegance and sophistication.
As fashion continues to evolve, we are left with this question: What will be the future of evening gowns?
Over the decades, these have gone from nobility-only attire to everyone’s formal wear with significant style changes.
Will evening gowns lose their charm OR Will a new trend take the world by storm?
Only time will tell. Until then, cherish and enjoy the wide range of evening gowns we have, and happy styling!
