American Symbolism in Fashion
Honoring patriotic fashion & runway moments for the 4th of July.
Happy 4th of July!
The American flag has been a symbol in American fashion since the 1950s coinciding with Korean and Vietnam Wars.
Wearing the American flag was an expression of patriotic support for troops and national pride, and has continued to reappear in fashion collections and runways alike.
American Symbolism in Fashion / Runway
Coach
The Federal Bag by Coach (1972)
Featuring the Great Seal of the United States.
Coach Fall/Winter (2015)
Showcasing a black knit sweater with white stars and stripes stitched horizontally on the front.
John Galliano
Spring/Summer (1993)
Combined models with wild hair and long drape-over flag dresses.
Marc Jacobs
Spring/Summer (2016)
Including elements of sequined stars and satin stripes in red, white and blue on dresses, fringe jackets, jeans, and candy stripe trousers.
Givenchy
Spring/Summer (2016) Menswear
Featuring star-studded straight leg denim jeans.
Vaquera
Fall/Winter (2017)
Featured exaggerated bows and ties decked in American flag print.
Ralph Lauren
Fall/Winter (2018)
Adding a more subtle nod to patriotic designs including Gigi Hadid’s velvet patchwork strapless gown.
Louis Vuitton
Fall/Winter (2019) Menswear
Virgil Abloh’s sophomore show was almost fully dedicated to Michael Jackson and included subtle American flag prints over trench coats, silk shirts, and pleated skirts over trousers.
Christian Dior
Pre-Fall (2024)
A patriotic sportswear statement featuring a stars and striped covered v-neck sports jersey by Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri.