MODA / FASHION
Often combined with low necklines and trousers or skirts worn low on the hips, open-back or backless clothing certainly echoes the enduring influence of the Y2K aesthetic on the catwalk. The back is perhaps having its moment right now, but fashion – like society in general – has a long histo- ry of highlighting different body parts in different eras. Just
as different body types are glorified in certain periods, so the focus on certain parts of the body (like the aesthetics of accentuated busts inspired by the Won- derbra phenomenon of the ‘90s or the flat stom- achs of Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera dur- ing the early 2000s) can be very problematic. Still, this time around, fashion’s obsession with bare backs (regardless of their size, shape, colour or skin type) is perhaps a sign of a more inclusive industry, as op- posed to one that makes absurd demands on cer- tain body parts to fit a pre- determined beauty ideal. Let’s hope that’s the case. But why are design- ers drawn to certain parts of the body during differ- ent periods? Cognitive psychologist and business consultant Professor Car- olyn Mair, author of The Psychology of Fashion, ex- plains: “The touch of the scalp or neck, especial- ly behind the ears, can be very exciting. That’s why we wear necklaces and ear- rings. Feet, toes and legs also respond strongly to
Timoti Šalame je pokazao da krojevi sa otvorenim leđima nisu rezervisani samo za žensku modu Timothée Chalamet has shown that backless cuts are no longer reserved for women’s fashion
different types of touch. Many shoe designers are aware of this and incorporate attractive elements into their creations. The lower back, where the waist gently draws it in, is also ex- tremely sensual.” So, why do zones of attraction seem to change, together with heel height and skirt length? She believes it’s all a result of the way fashion creates trends that then spread through society. “Fashion is cyclical and must change, because other- wise we’d never feel a need to buy anything new. Jeans are a great example of that [given the recent explosion in the popularity of baggy versions]. The same goes for sexy zones. They don’t actually change; it is only the focus of fashion that changes, influencing consumers to believe that a certain part of the body is now ‘the most desirable’.”
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