Finishes 1990

In 1990 there were all different kinds of finishes on clothing as well as furniture. On clothing, the acid stonewashed look on jeans was out while lace, beads, and sequins were in. Clothing had both a shine finish to it as well as a matte finish. Computer generated prints replaced the floral chintz finishes that was fashionable in the 80’s. Lycra and spandex material was worn casually or for exercising. Easy to wash fabrics were in such as cotton, naturals, and linens that were combined with synthetic blends.

For furniture, European style flourished with rustic finishes, washed painted finishes, faux looks, more dramatic finishes, and distressed details. For dinnerware, photo reproduced images were popular and the style shifted from classic patterns to a more eccentric and sophisticated style.

The finishes began changing in the late 80’s and up until the 90’s as bright colors, shine, and embellishments became popular. As the economy was doing well and consumers had more money to spend then in the past, more bold styles began to flourish. Even with finishes on non-clothing items became more elaborate because of the extra money people were willing to spend as well as the international influence that had swept the nation.

Sources:

“1990s look to Europe for new ideas” By Betsy Lammerding

The Toronto Star, January 13, 1990

“Twentieth Century Fashion” Linda Watson. London: Carlton Books Limited, 2003.

Vogue January and February Issues

http://www.fashion-era.com/the_1990s.htm

US Census 1990

Factfinder Census 1990

Bureau of Labor Statistics 1990