A Look Back at WWD’s Comprehensive Archives: Fashion’s Most Memorable Moments
Fashion is an ever-evolving industry, constantly pushing the boundaries and reinventing itself. And at the forefront of this dynamic world is Women’s Wear Daily (WWD), a publication that has been chronicling the fashion industry’s every move since its inception in 1910. With over a century’s worth of coverage, WWD’s archives are a treasure trove of fashion’s most memorable moments. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most iconic and game-changing events that have shaped the fashion world as we know it today.
The Birth of Haute Couture
The early 20th century saw the birth of haute couture, or high fashion, and WWD was there to capture every moment. In 1915, the publication reported on the first haute couture fashion show in Paris, where designers showcased their exquisite creations to a select audience of elite clients. This marked the beginning of a new era in fashion, where craftsmanship and luxury took center stage. WWD’s coverage of this event helped bring haute couture to the forefront of the fashion world and solidified Paris as the fashion capital of the world.
The Rise of Ready-to-Wear
While haute couture may have been reserved for the elite, the 1920s saw the emergence of ready-to-wear fashion, which made fashion accessible to the masses. WWD was quick to recognize this shift and started covering the ready-to-wear market, highlighting the democratization of fashion and the rise of iconic brands like Chanel and Christian Dior. With WWD’s coverage, the world was able to witness the birth of fashion as we know it today – a mix of high-end luxury and affordable ready-to-wear.
Fashion and Hollywood
The 1930s and 1940s saw the worlds of fashion and Hollywood collide, giving birth to the concept of celebrity fashion. WWD was at the forefront of this trend, covering the glamorous red carpet events and featuring the latest trends worn by Hollywood’s biggest stars. The publication’s coverage of these events helped create a symbiotic relationship between fashion and Hollywood, with designers vying to dress the most influential celebrities of the time. WWD’s archives are a testament to the influence of Hollywood on fashion and vice versa.
The Swinging Sixties
The 1960s were a time of rebellion and change, and fashion was no exception. WWD’s coverage of the decade’s fashion scene captured the spirit of the era, from the iconic mod fashion of London to the hippie culture of San Francisco. The decade also saw the rise of fashion icons like Twiggy and the Beatles, who not only influenced fashion but also popular culture as a whole. WWD’s archives are a time capsule of the swinging sixties, a decade that still inspires fashion trends today.
The Supermodel Era
The 1980s and 1990s were all about the supermodels – Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, and more. These models not only graced the pages of WWD but also became global icons, representing the fashion industry in all its glory. WWD’s archives are a testament to the impact of these supermodels, who helped shape the fashion industry and redefine beauty standards. Their influence can still be seen in today’s fashion industry, with the rise of diversity and inclusivity on the runway.
Fashion Goes Digital
The turn of the century brought with it a new era of fashion – the digital age. WWD was quick to adapt to this change, launching its website in 1995 and becoming one of the first fashion publications to go online. This allowed WWD to reach a wider audience and provide real-time coverage of fashion events, making it an indispensable source for fashion news and trends. Today, WWD’s digital archives are a valuable resource for fashion enthusiasts, providing a glimpse into the evolution of fashion in the digital age.
Looking to the Future
As we look back at WWD’s comprehensive archives, it is clear that the publication has been an integral part of the fashion industry’s journey. From its early days as a daily newspaper to its current status as a leading fashion publication, WWD has been a constant source of information, inspiration, and innovation. Its archives not only document the history of fashion but also serve as a guide for the future, showcasing the industry’s resilience and ability to adapt to change.
