Female Fashion Icons Through The Decades

Women’s fashion is constantly evolving, but many fashion icons have remained an inspiration for the trends to come.

Travel through time as this article explores some of fashion’s most iconic female figures of each decade. From the 1950s to the present day, here is a list of the ultimate trendsetters: 

• 1950s – Sophia Loren 

This Italian actress was best known for being able to wear it all. She had both an elegant, yet sassy aesthetic, and had a large influence in the uprising of sultry women’s fashion. Some of her most famous looks include the stunning white ball gown she wore to the 1955 Cannes Film Festival, or one of her many film looks like her signature floppy, beach hat and black corset from The Millionairess. 

• 1960s – Jackie Kennedy 

Jackie Kennedy was the epitome of class and elegance when it came to womenswear in the 60s. As the First Lady, she had a serious reputation to uphold, but her clothes were far from boring. She was usually seen rocking her classic, bouffant hairstyle. All you needed to emulate her iconic, preppy style was a set of pearls, a pastel dress or jeans and a sweater, and a ladylike attitude. 

• 1970s – Stevie Nicks

Despite her career in rock and roll music, Stevie Nicks was best known in the 70s for her bohemian style. She could always be seen, on and off stage, with a flowing sleeve, poncho, or even some fringe. She was a famous female figure who opposed the “sex symbol” stereotype of less (clothing) is more and stayed true to herself in her fashion statements. 

• 1980s – Madonna 

The queen of vogueing is up next! Madonna is one of the most iconic fashionistas in popular culture and inspired women’s fashion of the 80s and beyond. Her style in the 80s was edgier and included a variety of accessories like headbands and costume jewelry, lace detailing, bold colors, and patterns. Overall, Madonna’s fashion was always the epitome of fun!

• 1990s – Naomi Campbell

Still known as one of the world’s most elite supermodels, Naomi Campbell was widely popular for her style in the 90s. She was a fashion pioneer as the first black model showcased in luxury magazines and she was often spotted in very chic and sexy looks that incorporated sequins, sheer pieces, sleek hair, and the occasional pop of color. 

• 2000s – Sarah Jessica Parker 

Sex and the City star, Sarah Jessica Parker, aka SJP, was not so different from her character, Carrie Bradshaw, when it came to her 90s fashion, and people loved it! SJP was one of many fashion icons during this era, where self-expression through clothing was becoming increasingly popular. Her style displayed incredible creativity with each new look, and she never put herself in a “box” when it came to her style. Best known for having exaggerated accessories, natural makeup, and shoes to die for, SJP was the epitome of a Hollywood “it girl”.   

• 2010s – Zendaya 

Zendaya had one of the most iconic fashion transformations from her Disney channel days, and throughout the 2010s, the actress had some of the most stunning red carpet-looks. One of her most iconic outfits was at the 2019 Met Gala, as her dress was inspired by Disney’s Cinderella. This playful look was executed beautifully and was so different from the classic Zendaya aesthetic, chic and sophisticated. When it comes to Zendaya’s style, every choice is bold and there is never a dull moment!

• 2020s – Bella Hadid 

One of the coolest things about Bella Hadid’s style is that her style is incredibly versatile. On the runway, she is a powerful and dynamic supermodel, but off the runway, her style is much more relaxed. Typically spotted out by the paparazzi in baggy jeans, crop tops, and slick back hairstyles, her day-to-day style is casual, yet elevated, reigning true to her clean girl aesthetic. As for one of her most iconic runway looks, Hadid was sprayed with paint at the Coperni show in 2023 and walked the runway once the paint took the shape of a form-fitting, white dress. 

The list of influential women throughout history is endless, especially when it comes to fashion icons. Let us know who you get your style inspiration from!