Back in the Cold War era, much like other Americans, we used to think that all Soviet women dressed plainly and had tough lives due to their challenging circumstances. We imagined them in simple, practical clothes. But these fashion pictures tell a different story, especially in the years before the Soviet Union ended. While these images are actually scans from the Burda Moden magazine, a Western-based publication printed in Moscow, they reveal that Soviet women’s fashion was more varied and colorful than we had thought. The Burda Moden company was established in 1949 by Aenne Burda in Offenburg, Germany. The company initially focused on women’s sewing patterns and fashion publications. The magazine was first published in the Soviet Union in the 1987. During the Soviet era, Burda Moden magazine played a significant role in shaping fashion trends and providing sewing enthusiasts with patterns and ideas. Despite the relative isolation of the Soviet Union from the Western world, “Burda Moden” managed to make its way into the hands of Soviet citizens and fashion enthusiasts. The magazine’s sewing patterns, instructions, and fashion articles offered a window into global fashion trends, allowing individuals in the Soviet Union to create stylish clothing that aligned with international styles. In those days, acquiring the magazine was quite challenging, leading to its resale at a price ten times higher than the official publishing house price. Nearly every skilled private tailor in the Soviet Union possessed dozens of them. After all, the magazine contained sewing patterns, allowing customers to select any clothing model and recreate something similar. In the 1980s, fashion in the Soviet Union was influenced by a mix of domestic trends, global pop culture, and limited exposure to Western influences. While the Soviet regime still emphasized uniformity and practicality, several distinct styles emerged that reflected the changing times. One prevalent style was the classic Soviet look, characterized by modest and functional clothing. Women often donned knee-length dresses or skirts paired with blouses or sweaters, while men opted for suits or slacks matched with button-up shirts. Sportswear began to make its mark as well, mirroring the growing interest in physical activities. Tracksuits, windbreakers, and sneakers became popular casual choices, aligning with the era’s heightened focus on fitness. Denim’s popularity surged, hinting at a subtle defiance of the status quo. Despite restrictions on Western fashion, jeans gained traction, often paired with leather jackets or band t-shirts influenced by Western pop culture. Ethnic and folk-inspired elements found their way into fashion choices as part of a renewed interest in cultural heritage. Traditional embroidered blouses, sarafans, and scarves featuring indigenous motifs were sometimes incorporated into everyday attire. Accessories played a significant role in elevating ensembles. Scarves, hats, and statement pieces were used to inject individuality into otherwise plain outfits. Prints, colors, and patterns stood out, providing a burst of vibrancy against the otherwise muted palette.
(Photo credit: Burda Moden scans via Etsy and Flickr / Wikimedia Commons / Pinterest). Notify me of new posts by email.
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