“Revolutionizing Style: Unveiling the Fashion of 1920s Women”

Introduction

In the 1920s, women’s fashion underwent a significant transformation. The era was characterized by a departure from the restrictive and conservative clothing styles of the previous decades. Women embraced a more liberated and modern look, reflecting the changing social and cultural attitudes of the time.

The Evolution of Women’s Fashion in the 1920s

The 1920s was a decade of significant change for women’s fashion. It was a time when women began to break free from the constraints of the past and embrace a new sense of freedom and independence. The fashion of the 1920s was a reflection of this newfound liberation, with women opting for more comfortable and practical clothing that allowed them to move and express themselves freely.

One of the most iconic fashion trends of the 1920s was the flapper style. Flappers were young, independent women who rejected traditional societal norms and embraced a more modern lifestyle. They were known for their short bobbed hair, bold makeup, and daring fashion choices. Flapper dresses were loose-fitting and made of lightweight fabrics like silk and chiffon. They featured dropped waistlines and hemlines that fell just below the knee, a scandalously short length for the time. These dresses allowed women to dance and move with ease, a stark contrast to the restrictive corsets and long skirts of the past.

Another popular trend of the 1920s was the boyish silhouette. Women began to embrace a more androgynous look, inspired by the fashion of men. They wore straight-cut dresses that lacked the curves and frills of previous decades. These dresses were often paired with loose-fitting jackets and cloche hats, creating a sleek and streamlined look. The boyish silhouette was a symbol of women’s growing independence and desire to be seen as equals to men.

Accessories also played a significant role in women’s fashion during the 1920s. Long strands of pearls were a popular choice, often worn in multiple layers to create a dramatic effect. Feathered headbands and cloche hats adorned with ribbons and flowers were also common accessories. These accessories added a touch of glamour and sophistication to the overall look.

The fashion of the 1920s was not only about style but also about making a statement. Women used their clothing choices to express their newfound freedom and independence. They rejected the traditional roles assigned to them and embraced a more modern and progressive way of life. The fashion of the 1920s was a reflection of this cultural shift, with women opting for clothing that allowed them to move and express themselves freely.

In conclusion, the fashion of the 1920s was a reflection of the changing times. Women embraced a more comfortable and practical style that allowed them to move and express themselves freely. The flapper style and the boyish silhouette were two of the most iconic trends of the decade, symbolizing women’s newfound freedom and independence. Accessories such as long strands of pearls and feathered headbands added a touch of glamour and sophistication to the overall look. The fashion of the 1920s was not just about style, but also about making a statement and breaking free from the constraints of the past. It was a time of liberation and empowerment for women, and their fashion choices reflected this newfound sense of freedom.

Iconic Styles: Flapper Dresses and Accessories

The 1920s was a decade of change and liberation for women. After the end of World War I, women were no longer content with the restrictive and conservative fashion of the past. They wanted to break free from societal norms and express themselves in a bold and daring way. This desire for freedom and self-expression gave birth to the iconic style of the flapper.

Flapper dresses were the epitome of the 1920s fashion revolution. These dresses were characterized by their loose and straight silhouette, which was a stark contrast to the corsets and hourglass shapes of the previous era. The flapper dress was designed to be comfortable and easy to move in, allowing women to dance and socialize with ease.

One of the most iconic features of the flapper dress was its length. Unlike the ankle-length dresses of the past, flapper dresses were typically knee-length or even shorter. This shorter length was seen as scandalous at the time, but it allowed women to show off their legs and embrace their newfound freedom.

In addition to their length, flapper dresses were also known for their embellishments. Sequins, beads, and fringe were popular adornments that added movement and sparkle to the dresses. These embellishments were often used to create geometric patterns and art deco designs, which were all the rage during the 1920s.

Accessories were an essential part of the flapper look. Women would often wear long strands of pearls, which were a symbol of wealth and sophistication. Feathered headbands and cloche hats were also popular accessories that added a touch of glamour to any outfit.

The flapper style was not just about the clothes; it was a lifestyle. Flappers were known for their rebellious and carefree attitudes. They were independent, confident, and unafraid to challenge societal norms. The flapper style was a reflection of this attitude, with its bold and unconventional fashion choices.

The flapper style was not without its critics, however. Many saw it as a threat to traditional values and a sign of moral decay. But for women who embraced the flapper style, it was a symbol of empowerment and liberation. It was a way for them to assert their independence and reject the restrictive roles that society had assigned to them.

The flapper style may have been born in the 1920s, but its influence can still be seen today. The short and loose silhouette of the flapper dress has become a timeless classic, and the spirit of the flapper lives on in the women who continue to challenge societal norms and embrace their own unique style.

In conclusion, the flapper style of the 1920s was a revolutionary and iconic fashion movement. It represented a break from the past and a celebration of freedom and self-expression. The flapper dress, with its loose silhouette and bold embellishments, became a symbol of empowerment for women. And while the flapper style may have been met with criticism at the time, its influence can still be felt today. So let us embrace the spirit of the flapper and continue to challenge societal norms, both in our fashion choices and in our lives.

Breaking Barriers: Women’s Liberation through Fashion

The 1920s was a time of great change and liberation for women. After years of fighting for their rights, women were finally beginning to break free from the constraints of society and assert their independence. One of the ways in which they did this was through their fashion choices. The way women dressed in the 1920s was a reflection of their newfound freedom and confidence.

Gone were the corsets and long, flowing dresses of the Victorian era. Women in the 1920s embraced a more relaxed and comfortable style. They began to wear shorter skirts that allowed them to move more freely and express themselves. This was a radical departure from the past, as women had previously been expected to dress modestly and conform to societal norms.

The iconic flapper dress became a symbol of women’s liberation during this time. These dresses were loose-fitting and often made of lightweight fabrics such as silk or chiffon. They featured dropped waistlines and hemlines that fell just below the knee. The flapper dress was a stark contrast to the restrictive clothing of the past and allowed women to dance, socialize, and enjoy themselves without feeling constrained.

In addition to shorter hemlines, women in the 1920s also began to embrace more masculine styles. They wore trousers, which were previously considered inappropriate for women, and adopted a more androgynous look. This was a bold statement of independence and challenged traditional gender roles.

Another significant change in women’s fashion during this time was the abandonment of the corset. Corsets had long been used to shape and control women’s bodies, but in the 1920s, women began to reject this restrictive undergarment. Instead, they opted for more comfortable and natural silhouettes. This was a powerful symbol of women’s liberation, as it represented a rejection of societal expectations and a desire for freedom.

The hairstyles of women in the 1920s also underwent a dramatic transformation. Long, flowing locks were replaced with short, bobbed haircuts. This was a bold and daring choice, as long hair had long been associated with femininity and beauty. By cutting their hair short, women were challenging traditional notions of beauty and asserting their individuality.

The fashion choices of women in the 1920s were not just about style; they were a statement of empowerment. Women were no longer content to be confined to the home or limited by societal expectations. They wanted to be seen and heard, and their fashion choices reflected this desire.

In conclusion, the way women dressed in the 1920s was a reflection of their newfound freedom and confidence. They embraced shorter skirts, trousers, and more masculine styles, rejecting the restrictive clothing of the past. They also abandoned the corset and cut their hair short, challenging traditional notions of beauty. The fashion choices of women in the 1920s were a powerful statement of empowerment and a symbol of their liberation.

The Influence of Coco Chanel on 1920s Fashion

The 1920s was a decade of change and liberation for women, and one of the key figures who influenced the fashion of the time was none other than Coco Chanel. Chanel, a French fashion designer, revolutionized the way women dressed in the 1920s and left an indelible mark on the fashion industry that is still felt today.

Coco Chanel was a visionary who believed that women should be able to move freely and comfortably in their clothing. She rejected the restrictive corsets and heavy fabrics that were popular in the early 20th century and instead embraced simplicity and functionality. Chanel’s designs were characterized by clean lines, loose silhouettes, and a focus on comfort.

One of Chanel’s most iconic contributions to 1920s fashion was the little black dress. Before Chanel, black was primarily associated with mourning and was rarely worn as a fashionable color. However, Chanel saw the potential in black and believed that it could be a versatile and timeless color for women’s clothing. She designed a simple, knee-length black dress that could be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. This little black dress became a staple in every woman’s wardrobe and is still considered a classic piece today.

In addition to the little black dress, Chanel also popularized the use of jersey fabric in women’s clothing. Jersey was a lightweight and stretchy fabric that allowed for greater freedom of movement. Chanel used jersey to create comfortable and practical garments such as skirts, blouses, and even sportswear. This was a radical departure from the heavy and restrictive fabrics that were commonly used at the time.

Chanel also introduced the concept of mixing high and low fashion. She believed that luxury should be accessible to all women, regardless of their social status or income. Chanel often paired expensive, high-quality pieces with more affordable accessories to create a look that was both stylish and attainable. This idea of mixing high and low fashion was revolutionary at the time and paved the way for a more inclusive and democratic fashion industry.

Another significant contribution of Chanel to 1920s fashion was her popularization of the bob haircut. Prior to the 1920s, long hair was the norm for women, but Chanel challenged this convention by cutting her hair short. The bob became a symbol of independence and modernity, and women all over the world followed suit. The bob was a practical and low-maintenance hairstyle that perfectly complemented Chanel’s simple and streamlined designs.

Coco Chanel’s influence on 1920s fashion cannot be overstated. Her innovative designs and forward-thinking approach to fashion revolutionized the way women dressed and paved the way for a new era of freedom and self-expression. Chanel’s legacy lives on today, as her designs continue to inspire and influence fashion designers around the world. The 1920s was a time of great change for women, and Coco Chanel was at the forefront of this revolution, shaping the fashion industry and empowering women to dress in a way that reflected their newfound independence and confidence.

The Rise of Hemlines: Short Skirts in the 1920s

The 1920s was a decade of change and liberation for women. After the end of World War I, women were no longer content with the restrictive and conservative fashion of the past. They wanted to break free from societal norms and express themselves in a new and exciting way. One of the most iconic changes in women’s fashion during this time was the rise of hemlines and the introduction of short skirts.

In the early 1920s, women’s fashion was still heavily influenced by the Victorian era. Long, ankle-length skirts were the norm, and women were expected to be modest and demure in their appearance. However, as the decade progressed, a new sense of freedom and independence began to emerge. Women started to rebel against the traditional norms and embrace a more modern and daring style.

The introduction of short skirts was a radical departure from the past. Hemlines began to rise, and women started to show off their legs, which was considered scandalous at the time. This change in fashion was a symbol of women’s newfound freedom and confidence. It was a way for them to assert their independence and challenge the status quo.

The flapper style became synonymous with the 1920s. Flappers were young, fashionable women who embraced the new trends and lived life to the fullest. They were known for their short bobbed hair, bold makeup, and of course, their short skirts. Flappers were seen as rebellious and daring, and they became a symbol of the changing times.

Short skirts were not only a fashion statement but also a practical choice for women. The 1920s was a time of increased mobility and activity for women. They were participating in sports, dancing, and socializing more than ever before. Long skirts were simply not practical for these activities. Short skirts allowed women to move freely and participate in a wide range of activities without feeling restricted.

The rise of short skirts also had a significant impact on society as a whole. It challenged traditional gender roles and expectations. Women were no longer confined to the home; they were out in the world, working, and enjoying their newfound freedom. Short skirts became a symbol of women’s liberation and a rejection of the old ways.

The fashion industry quickly caught on to the trend and began producing a wide range of short skirts and dresses. Designers like Coco Chanel and Jean Patou embraced the new style and created innovative designs that celebrated women’s bodies and movement. The fashion industry played a crucial role in popularizing the short skirt and making it accessible to women of all backgrounds.

In conclusion, the rise of short skirts in the 1920s was a revolutionary moment in women’s fashion. It represented a break from the past and a celebration of women’s freedom and independence. Short skirts allowed women to express themselves, move freely, and challenge societal norms. The flapper style became an iconic symbol of the era, and designers embraced the trend, creating innovative and exciting designs. The short skirt was more than just a fashion statement; it was a symbol of progress and empowerment for women in the 1920s.

The Impact of Art Deco on Women’s Clothing in the 1920s

The 1920s was a decade of change and liberation for women. It was a time when women began to break free from the constraints of traditional gender roles and embrace a new sense of independence and freedom. One of the ways in which women expressed this newfound freedom was through their clothing. The fashion of the 1920s was heavily influenced by the Art Deco movement, which had a profound impact on women’s clothing during this time.

Art Deco was a style that emerged in the early 20th century and was characterized by its bold geometric shapes, vibrant colors, and luxurious materials. It was a departure from the more ornate and elaborate styles of the past and embraced a more streamlined and modern aesthetic. This new style was reflected in the clothing of the 1920s, as women began to wear shorter skirts, looser fitting dresses, and more masculine-inspired clothing.

One of the most iconic fashion trends of the 1920s was the flapper dress. Flapper dresses were characterized by their dropped waistlines, loose fit, and short hemlines. They were often made of luxurious fabrics such as silk and adorned with intricate beading and sequins. These dresses were a stark departure from the corseted and restrictive styles of the past and allowed women to move and dance with ease.

The flapper dress became a symbol of the new modern woman, who was independent, confident, and unafraid to challenge societal norms. It was a dress that allowed women to express their individuality and embrace their own sense of style. The flapper dress was often paired with accessories such as long strands of pearls, feathered headbands, and cloche hats, which further added to the overall look of the 1920s woman.

In addition to the flapper dress, women in the 1920s also began to wear more masculine-inspired clothing. This included tailored suits, trousers, and even tuxedos. These styles were a reflection of the growing influence of the women’s suffrage movement and the desire for women to be seen as equals to men. It was a bold and daring statement that challenged traditional notions of femininity and embraced a more androgynous aesthetic.

The impact of Art Deco on women’s clothing in the 1920s cannot be overstated. It was a time of great change and innovation in fashion, as women began to embrace a new sense of freedom and individuality. The flapper dress and the rise of more masculine-inspired clothing were a reflection of this changing social landscape and the desire for women to break free from the constraints of the past.

In conclusion, the fashion of the 1920s was heavily influenced by the Art Deco movement, which had a profound impact on women’s clothing during this time. The flapper dress and the rise of more masculine-inspired clothing were a reflection of the changing social landscape and the desire for women to break free from traditional gender roles. The fashion of the 1920s was a symbol of the newfound freedom and independence that women were experiencing, and it continues to inspire and influence fashion today.

From Corsets to Freedom: Women’s Undergarments in the 1920s

In the 1920s, women’s fashion underwent a dramatic transformation. This was a time of great change and liberation for women, and their clothing reflected this newfound freedom. Gone were the days of restrictive corsets and heavy layers of clothing. Instead, women embraced a more relaxed and comfortable style that allowed them to move freely and express themselves.

One of the most significant changes in women’s fashion during this time was the abandonment of corsets. For centuries, corsets had been a staple of women’s undergarments, tightly lacing in the waist and creating an hourglass figure. However, in the 1920s, women began to reject this constricting garment in favor of a more natural silhouette. They wanted to be able to breathe and move without feeling restricted, and the corset simply did not allow for that.

Instead of corsets, women started wearing brassieres, or bras as we know them today. These new undergarments provided support and shape without the discomfort of a corset. They allowed women to embrace their natural curves and move more freely. This was a significant step towards the liberation of women’s bodies and a symbol of the changing times.

Another important change in women’s undergarments during the 1920s was the introduction of the slip. Slips were lightweight, sleeveless dresses that were worn underneath dresses and skirts. They provided an extra layer of modesty and helped to smooth out any lumps or bumps. Slips were often made of silk or satin, adding a touch of luxury to women’s undergarments.

The slip also played a role in the rise of the flapper style, which was popularized in the 1920s. Flappers were young, independent women who rejected traditional societal norms and embraced a more carefree and rebellious lifestyle. They wore short, loose-fitting dresses that allowed them to dance and move with ease. The slip was an essential part of the flapper look, as it added a layer of modesty to the short dresses and helped to create a smooth silhouette.

In addition to slips, women in the 1920s also wore bloomers or knickers underneath their dresses. These were loose-fitting, knee-length pants that allowed for greater freedom of movement. Bloomers were often made of lightweight fabrics like cotton or silk and were worn by women participating in sports or other physical activities. They were a symbol of women’s increasing participation in the public sphere and their desire for greater independence.

Overall, the 1920s marked a significant shift in women’s undergarments. From the abandonment of corsets to the introduction of slips and bloomers, women embraced a more comfortable and practical style. This change in fashion reflected the changing roles and aspirations of women during this time. Women were no longer content to be confined by restrictive clothing; they wanted to be able to move, express themselves, and participate fully in society. The fashion of the 1920s was a reflection of this newfound freedom and a symbol of the progress that women were making.

The Role of Hollywood in Shaping 1920s Women’s Fashion

The 1920s was a decade of change and liberation for women. It was a time when women began to break free from the constraints of traditional gender roles and embrace a newfound sense of independence. One of the ways in which this liberation was expressed was through fashion. Women in the 1920s began to dress in a way that was both stylish and practical, and Hollywood played a significant role in shaping these new trends.

In the early 1920s, women’s fashion was still heavily influenced by the styles of the previous decade. Long, flowing dresses with high necklines and full skirts were the norm. However, as the decade progressed, Hollywood began to introduce new ideas and styles that would revolutionize women’s fashion.

One of the most influential figures in shaping 1920s women’s fashion was the silent film star, Clara Bow. Known for her vivacious personality and daring fashion choices, Bow became a style icon for women across the country. Her short, bobbed hair and bold makeup looks were emulated by women everywhere, and her influence can still be seen in the fashion choices of women today.

Another Hollywood star who played a significant role in shaping 1920s women’s fashion was Louise Brooks. With her iconic bobbed haircut and smoky eye makeup, Brooks epitomized the flapper style that became synonymous with the decade. Flappers were young, independent women who rejected the traditional values of their parents’ generation and embraced a more carefree and rebellious lifestyle. Their fashion choices reflected this newfound freedom, with short, sleeveless dresses and dropped waistlines becoming the norm.

Hollywood also played a role in popularizing the use of accessories in women’s fashion. Actresses like Gloria Swanson and Joan Crawford were often seen wearing elaborate hats, fur stoles, and long strands of pearls. These accessories added a touch of glamour to their outfits and became must-have items for women everywhere.

In addition to influencing the styles and trends of the time, Hollywood also played a role in making fashion more accessible to the average woman. Prior to the 1920s, fashion was largely dictated by the upper classes, with the latest trends being reserved for the wealthy elite. However, Hollywood’s influence helped to democratize fashion, making it more accessible to women of all social classes. Women could now look to the silver screen for inspiration and find affordable alternatives to the high-end designer pieces worn by their favorite actresses.

The 1920s was a decade of change and liberation for women, and Hollywood played a significant role in shaping the fashion of the time. Actresses like Clara Bow and Louise Brooks became style icons, and their bold fashion choices influenced women across the country. Hollywood also popularized the use of accessories and made fashion more accessible to the average woman. The fashion of the 1920s was a reflection of the changing times, and it continues to inspire and influence women’s fashion today.

Fashionable Activism: Women’s Suffrage and Dress Reform

In the 1920s, women’s fashion underwent a significant transformation that mirrored the changing social and political landscape of the time. This era was marked by the rise of the women’s suffrage movement and a growing desire for gender equality. Women began to use fashion as a means of expressing their newfound freedom and challenging societal norms. The fashion choices of women in the 1920s were not only a reflection of their personal style but also a form of fashionable activism.

During this time, women’s suffrage was a hot topic, and women were fighting for their right to vote. They were determined to break free from the constraints of traditional gender roles and assert their independence. This desire for change was reflected in the way women dressed. Gone were the corsets and restrictive clothing of the past. Instead, women embraced loose-fitting garments that allowed for greater freedom of movement.

One of the most iconic fashion trends of the 1920s was the flapper style. Flappers were young, independent women who rejected the societal norms of the time. They wore short skirts, bobbed their hair, and embraced a more androgynous look. The flapper style was a direct rebellion against the restrictive clothing and conservative values of the past. It was a statement of liberation and a celebration of female empowerment.

The flapper style was not only a fashion statement but also a form of fashionable activism. By rejecting traditional gender roles and embracing a more masculine look, flappers challenged societal expectations of femininity. They were unapologetically themselves and refused to conform to the standards set by society. In doing so, they paved the way for future generations of women to express themselves freely and without fear of judgment.

Another aspect of women’s fashion in the 1920s that reflected their activism was the dress reform movement. This movement sought to challenge the restrictive clothing worn by women and promote more practical and comfortable garments. Women began to wear trousers, which were previously considered exclusively male attire. This was a bold statement of defiance and a rejection of the notion that women should be confined to skirts and dresses.

The dress reform movement was not just about comfort; it was also about equality. By wearing trousers, women were asserting their right to be treated as equals to men. They were demanding to be taken seriously and recognized for their abilities, rather than being judged solely on their appearance. The dress reform movement was a powerful symbol of women’s fight for equality and a reminder that fashion can be a form of activism.

In conclusion, the fashion choices of women in the 1920s were not just about personal style; they were a form of fashionable activism. Women used fashion as a means of expressing their newfound freedom and challenging societal norms. The flapper style and the dress reform movement were both powerful statements of liberation and equality. These women were not afraid to be themselves and to fight for their rights. Their fashion choices were a reflection of their strength, resilience, and determination to create a better future for themselves and future generations of women.

The End of an Era: How Fashion Changed in the Late 1920s

The 1920s was a time of great change and transformation, not only in terms of politics and society, but also in the world of fashion. It was a decade that saw the end of the restrictive and constricting clothing of the previous era, and the birth of a new, more liberated style. Women in the 1920s began to embrace a more relaxed and comfortable way of dressing, breaking free from the corsets and long skirts that had been the norm for so long.

One of the most iconic fashion trends of the 1920s was the flapper style. Flappers were young, independent women who rejected the traditional roles and expectations placed upon them. They were known for their short bobbed hair, bold makeup, and most importantly, their daring fashion choices. Flapper dresses were loose and shapeless, with dropped waists and hemlines that fell just below the knee. These dresses were often made of lightweight fabrics such as silk or chiffon, and were adorned with intricate beading and fringe. The flapper style was all about movement and freedom, and it reflected the changing attitudes of women in the 1920s.

Another significant change in women’s fashion during this time was the introduction of trousers. While it may seem commonplace now, the idea of women wearing pants was considered scandalous in the 1920s. However, as women began to participate in more active and physical activities, such as sports and dancing, trousers became a practical and fashionable choice. Women would often wear wide-legged trousers called “Oxford bags,” paired with a loose-fitting blouse or sweater. This new style of dressing allowed women to move more freely and comfortably, and it challenged the traditional notions of femininity.

In addition to the flapper style and trousers, women in the 1920s also embraced a more androgynous look. They began to borrow elements from men’s fashion, such as tailored suits and fedora hats. This style, known as “garçonne,” was characterized by its clean lines and minimalistic aesthetic. Women would wear straight-cut dresses or suits, often made of wool or tweed, and accessorize with a tie or a bowler hat. The garçonne style was a bold statement of independence and equality, as women sought to break free from the confines of traditional gender roles.

The fashion of the late 1920s was a reflection of the changing times. It was a time of liberation and empowerment for women, and their clothing choices reflected this newfound freedom. The flapper style, trousers, and the garçonne look all challenged the traditional notions of femininity and allowed women to express themselves in new and exciting ways.

In conclusion, the fashion of the 1920s marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. Women in the late 1920s embraced a more relaxed and comfortable way of dressing, breaking free from the restrictive clothing of the past. The flapper style, trousers, and the garçonne look all represented a shift in attitudes towards women’s fashion, as women sought to express their independence and challenge traditional gender roles. The fashion of the 1920s was a reflection of the changing times, and it continues to inspire and influence fashion today.

Q&A

1. Women in the 1920s dressed in loose-fitting, knee-length dresses.
2. They often wore drop-waist dresses with straight silhouettes.
3. Women embraced the flapper style, characterized by short skirts and sleeveless dresses.
4. The use of bold colors and geometric patterns became popular.
5. Women wore cloche hats, which were close-fitting and bell-shaped.
6. They accessorized with long necklaces, feather boas, and headbands.
7. Stockings were worn, often rolled down to create a “rolled stocking” look.
8. Women wore low-heeled shoes, such as T-strap Mary Janes or Oxford shoes.
9. Makeup became more common, with emphasis on dark eyes and red lips.
10. Women also started to wear more practical clothing for sports and outdoor activities, such as knickerbockers and sweaters.

Conclusion

In the 1920s, women’s fashion underwent significant changes. They embraced a more liberated and modern style, characterized by shorter hemlines, looser silhouettes, and a focus on comfort and practicality. The iconic flapper style emerged, featuring dropped waistlines, straight cuts, and sleeveless or short-sleeved dresses. Women also started wearing trousers, albeit primarily for sports or leisure activities. Overall, the fashion of the 1920s reflected the changing societal norms and the desire for freedom and independence among women.