At their worst, fashion and lifestyle focus too much on following trends and buying lots of things, which can make people feel like they need to keep up with everyone else. This can take away from what’s really important about expressing yourself and making choices that are good for the planet.
Codpieces (15th-16th centuries): Originally functional, these exaggerated pouches over men’s groins became overly ornate and sometimes comically large.
Powdered Wigs (17th-18th centuries): Worn primarily by European nobility, these wigs were often excessively styled and made from powdered human or horse hair.
Hobble Skirts (early 20th century): These skirts were so narrow at the ankles that they restricted movement, reflecting impracticality over comfort.
Corsets (16th-early 20th centuries): While shaping the body was fashionable, corsets often caused health issues due to their restrictive nature and pressure on internal organs.
Shoulder Pads (1980s): Popularized to create a powerful silhouette, shoulder pads in women’s fashion sometimes led to exaggerated proportions that quickly fell out of favor.
Platform Shoes (1970s): While adding height, these shoes often featured extreme platform soles, which were challenging to walk in and prone to causing accidents.
Bell-bottoms (1960s-1970s): Though beloved by many, these wide-legged pants could be impractical and unflattering to certain body types.
Victorian Mourning Attire: While mourning attire is a cultural norm, the elaborate, all-black outfits of the Victorian era often included heavy veils and restrictive clothing, which were impractical for daily life.