The Sanskrit word “Sari” roughly translates to “strip of cloth”. This is what fashion historians mark as the beginning of mesh garments. First worn nearly 5000 years ago by the Indus Valey Civilization of NW India. I am no expert, but I believe 5000 years makes it a classic. They were worn in breathable flowing layers, frequently adorned with elaborate designs.
Another recognizable era and civilization that used mesh as garments was the Greeks around 140 BC. The iconic Chilton was attire similar to a tunic. The sheer fabrics were layered, folded, and pleated in various styles of the period.
In the 1880s, the Brynje clothing company of Norway tested, manufactured, and distributed mesh undergarments for a breathable layer close to the skin. The mesh shirts prevented moisture build-up. In the artic environment of Norway, it is essential to mitigate moisture. There was a British textile owner who also claimed to have invented mesh fabric that decade.
A vintage art deco mesh dress, purse, gloves, hat, or stockings from the flapper era of the 1920s are as classic styling as you can find. Multi-layered sheer dresses could be designed from risqué to reserved.
From the 1950s through today the word “chiffon” has been known and the fabric used to design enduring classics. Prom, graduation, bridesmaids, and bridal gowns have included chiffon for decades to add movement to design.
When Madonna’s first album “Madonna” was played in the MTV era, mesh, lace, and sheer fabrics flew off the racks. The 1980s were awash in lace gloves, dresses, blouses with padded shoulders, big hair, and contrasting colors. Did I mention huge hair? Modern English had a hit called ”Mesh and Lace”.
The body-conscious movement or BodyCon of the late 1980s traded loose dresses in for contour-shaping dresses that accentuate curves and control your silhouette.
Synthetic mesh fabrics keep us dry in the gym, or warm when diving in cold water. Sports jerseys of all types are highly breathable and moisture-wicking synthetic mesh fabric.
Runway designers are reinvigorating mesh and sheer into accent pieces, cravat, overlays, and wraps. Celebrities and fashionistas are donning transparent lace and see-through leggings, little tight dresses, and elegant gowns.
Dark mesh is associated with elegance and luxury. Mesh fabrics are pliable, durable, and breathable. Those are important characteristics of fabric for a designer. That is why mesh has been used for 5000 years.
The five traditional dresses of India are the kurti, lehenga choli, anarkail suit, salwar kameez, and saree (sari). We talked about the sari in the beginning being draped around the body in one long piece. It is still one of the most popular garments in India.
I have heard of people getting off of “the fashion train” and wearing the same style for long periods, but 5000 years is a commitment. I will have to try one on. Hundreds of millions of women can’t be wrong.
