For over a century, Women’s Wear Daily (WWD) has been the go-to source for all things fashion. Its comprehensive archives have captured some of the most memorable moments in the industry, making it a treasure trove for fashion enthusiasts and historians alike. As we take a trip down memory lane, let’s look back at some of the most iconic moments that have been immortalized in the pages of WWD.
One of the earliest moments that WWD captured was the birth of the iconic little black dress by designer Coco Chanel in the 1920s. At a time when fashion was all about heavily embellished and colorful garments, Chanel broke the mold with her simple yet elegant black dress. This move revolutionized the fashion industry and cemented Chanel’s place as one of the most influential designers in history.
Moving on to the 1950s, WWD was there to document the rise of Christian Dior’s infamous “New Look.” With its nipped-in waists and full skirts, this style was a stark contrast to the more boxy and utilitarian fashion of the previous decade. Dior’s designs were met with both praise and criticism, but there’s no denying that they changed the course of fashion forever.
In the 1960s, WWD was at the forefront of the mod fashion movement, featuring designers such as Mary Quant and her iconic mini skirt. This decade also saw the introduction of the “youthquake” generation, with young models and designers taking center stage. WWD captured this shift in the industry, showcasing the vibrant and energetic spirit of the 1960s.
The 1970s brought a more bohemian and carefree style to the fashion world, with designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Halston leading the way. WWD highlighted the rise of ready-to-wear collections and the influence of street style on high fashion. This decade also saw the emergence of supermodels, including Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford, who graced the pages of WWD and became household names.
The 1980s saw a return to extravagance and opulence in fashion, with designers like Gianni Versace and Thierry Mugler pushing boundaries with their bold and statement-making designs. WWD was there to capture the over-the-top fashion shows and celebrity-filled front rows. It was also during this time that WWD started to cover emerging designers, giving a platform to up-and-coming talent.
As we entered the 1990s, WWD continued to break barriers and push the boundaries of fashion journalism. In 1994, the publication featured an all-black cover to highlight the lack of diversity in the industry, sparking an important conversation about representation in fashion. WWD also covered the rise of grunge fashion, led by designer Marc Jacobs, and the emergence of “heroin chic” in the modeling world.
The turn of the century brought a new era of fashion, and WWD was there every step of the way. From the rise of streetwear to the influence of social media on the industry, WWD’s comprehensive archives captured it all. The publication also continued to showcase new and emerging designers, giving a platform to voices that were often overlooked by mainstream fashion media.
Throughout the years, WWD has been a pioneer in fashion journalism, constantly evolving to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry. Its archives not only document the evolution of fashion, but also reflect the social and cultural shifts that have influenced it.
Today, WWD continues to be a trusted source for fashion news and trends, remaining at the forefront of the industry. Its comprehensive archives serve as a reminder of the iconic moments and trends that have shaped fashion into what it is today. As we look back at these archives, we are reminded of the power of fashion and its ability to inspire and captivate us.
In conclusion, WWD’s archives are a testament to the rich history of fashion and the important role it plays in our society. The publication has been a witness to some of the most memorable moments in the industry and has played a significant role in shaping fashion as we know it. We can only imagine the countless more iconic moments that WWD’s archives will capture in the years to come.
