Objective

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to identify and describe the fashion trends of a specific historical era and understand the social and cultural influences on fashion during that time period.

Materials and Prep

• Pen and paper
• Access to a library or the internet for research
• Basic understanding of historical periods

Activities

1. Research: Have the student choose a historical era (e.g. Victorian era, Roaring Twenties, Renaissance) and research the fashion trends of that time period. Encourage them to take notes and gather visual references.

2. Fashion Timeline: Ask the student to create a timeline of the chosen historical era, highlighting key fashion trends and influential figures in fashion during that time.

3. Fashion Show: Have the student put together a mini fashion show at home, showcasing outfits inspired by the chosen historical era. They can involve family members or friends to participate as models.

Seventh Grade Talking Points

• Historical Context: "Fashion is not just about clothing, it also reflects the social and cultural context of a specific time period. What people wear often tells us a lot about the society they lived in."
• Cultural Influences: "Fashion is influenced by various cultural factors such as art, music, and economic conditions. For example, the Great Depression in the 1930s had a significant impact on fashion trends."
• Individual Expression: "While fashion is influenced by society, it also allows individuals to express their creativity and personal style. People often use clothing to convey their identity and values."
• Impact of Technology: "Advancements in technology have greatly impacted fashion throughout history. For instance, the invention of the sewing machine revolutionized the production of clothing during the Industrial Revolution."