Introduction
Fashion in the USSR became a recognized part of the Soviet way of life. The clothing directly reflected the social processes of creating a unique fashion tradition, which was not affected by the other countries’ views on clothing. As a result, the process of the Iron Curtain and social isolation could be seen in the fashion trends. The world’s largest network of modeling organizations was created in the country, the activities of which were entirely planned and financed by the state.
Discussion
Soviet fashion was moderate and modest in another respect: it was never sexually provocative, as in the West, but emphatically decent. Often in the columns of the Soviet press and in professional fashion magazines, one could come across warnings about the inadmissibility of women wearing revealing dresses with excessively deep necklines or see-through sleeveless summer sundresses (Vainshein, 1996). Such a situation shows that any sexualization was prohibited. The body was considered as the values which should not be shown publicly.
Contrary to popular belief, the USSR had no unified fashion ideology. Neither the CPSU nor the country’s leadership adopted special resolutions on this matter. The impact was carried out mainly by cultural and propaganda means and through the formation of public opinion (Vainshein, 1996). The extreme level of affection was achieved through the publication of journals.
Conclusion
In other words, Soviet fashion design was believed to follow three fundamental principles, which the government, media, and people formed. Citizens followed the fashion trend that the government established. Firstly, it had to be in line with world fashion trends, selectively using all the best and modern, but without extremes and extravagant excesses. Secondly, Soviet fashion should extensively use national traditions and folk motifs in clothing. Thirdly, it should be “vital”, that is, more functional and practical than the Western one.
Reference
Vainshein, O. (1996). Female fashion, Soviet style: Bodies of Ideology. (H. Goscilo, Trans.). Bloomington.