For this week’s blog post, we are looking at how women’s fashion in Palm Beach has evolved over the decades—reflecting not just changing styles, but the shifting roles and independence of women. From the classy, put-together looks of the 1950s to the bold and fearless trends of the 1960s, all the way to today’s effortless luxury—like the outfits seen on @classofpalmbeach on TikTok—women have always used fashion as a way to express confidence, status, and individuality.
1920s
After the war, women’s fashion became more relaxed and practical, moving away from restrictive corsets in favor of looser, more comfortable dresses. This shift also made sportswear more socially acceptable, giving women greater freedom to move and enjoy outdoor activities.
By the 1920s, Palm Beach had become a destination for stylish women looking for both elegance and ease in their wardrobes. Worth Avenue quickly rose as a key shopping district, offering the latest trends in a way that suited the laid-back yet refined lifestyle of the area. When Saks Fifth Avenue opened its second store there in 1926, it reflected the growing demand for fashion that blended sophistication with comfort. For women in this era, clothing was more than just a trend—it was a statement of independence, leisure, and the changing role of women in society.
1930s
The 1930s marked a return to more tailored and elegant silhouettes after the relaxed styles of the 1920s. Dresses became more form-fitting, with flowing fabrics that draped gracefully, emphasizing femininity while maintaining a sense of ease. In Palm Beach, fashion embraced the area’s warm, tropical climate with lightweight materials, breezy cuts, and chic resort wear.
A major influence on Palm Beach fashion came from The Everglades Club, which hosted Tombolas—weekly luncheon fashion shows that featured some of the world’s top designers. These events, covered by The New York Times, helped shape American fashion and introduced women to the latest trends. Whether attending a luncheon or strolling along Worth Avenue, Palm Beach women in the 1930s embodied a style that was both refined and effortless, blending sophistication with the relaxed beauty of coastal living.
1940s
The 1940s were a period of change for women, and fashion reflected that. With many men off at war, women took on new roles in the workforce, which meant their fashion had to be more practical. High waisted trousers and tailored suits became everyday staples, giving women more freedom to move while still looking polished.
1950s
After years of war women in the 1950s longed to dress up and embrace elegance. The decade was marked by graceful silhouettes with classy dresses and skirts. Dior’s “New Look” dominated, focusing on hourglass shapes with full skirts. But other designers, like Cristobal Balenciaga, introduced new ideas. Balenciaga’s 1957 “Sack Dress” featured a boxy, straight silhouette, a bold contrast to Dior’s cinched waist look. In Palm Beach this fashion trend aligned with the region's focus on elegance, comfort, and luxury. The full skirts and feminine silhouettes that defined the 50s were perfect for the relaxed, yet refined atmosphere of Palm Beach.
1960s
In the 1960s more women were joining the workforce, fighting for equal rights, and challenging traditional roles, and their clothing became more fun, bold, and expressive. In Palm Beach, the classic, polished look of the ‘50s were still around, but new trends started taking over—especially shorter hemlines, brighter colors, and modern, sleek silhouettes. Mini skirts and shift dresses in bold patterns became super popular, along with go-go boots and oversized sunglasses. At the same time, the rise of the hippie movement meant more women were embracing relaxed, bohemian styles like flowy maxi dresses, fringes, and natural fabrics.
1970s
In the 1970s, women embraced independence, pursued careers, protested for equality, and explored new fashion. During this time in Palm Beach, fashion was a blend of luxury, sophistication, and laid-back elegance, reflective of the social scene and tropical climate. Palm Beach, known for its preppy and well-tailored look, embraced a polished yet relaxed style during the 1970s. Women often wore pastel-colored blouses, lightweight cashmere sweaters, and tailored skirts or pants, often inspired by Lilly Pulitzer. Polo shirts, blazers, and khakis were also common. The "Palm Beach chic" look was all about a timeless and elegant approach to fashion.
1980s
For women, the 1980s was a period of empowerment, with many entering work, often embracing a more professional image. In Palm Beach, fashion during the 1980s was women opting for elegant, yet bold clothing choices. This included preppy styles like polo shirts, pleated skirts, and pastel colors. The bright, sunny environment of Palm Beach also influenced the use of light fabrics like linen and cotton, which were perfect for the tropical climate.
1990s
Women in the 1990s were exploring greater freedom in their personal and professional lives, with the rise of powerful female figures in politics, business, and entertainment. Fashion in the '90s leaned toward more casual yet sophisticated styles. Palm Beach women embraced effortless elegance. The iconic "preppy" look continued, with tennis skirts, collared shirts, and pastel hues, but there was also a trend towards modern, streamlined pieces such as slip dresses, tailored blazers, and white jeans.
2000s
Women in the 2000s were balancing careers, personal lives, and the growing influence of pop culture icons like the Kardashians and celebrities such as Paris Hilton, whose style defined much of the fashion landscape.2000s fashion embraced a mix of luxury and casual chic. Trends like low-rise jeans, halter tops, and bright-colored bikinis were popular for Palm Beaches sunny, beachy vibe. Women still maintained a classy style but adapted to the laid-back 2000s style with simple, yet elegant pieces like sundresses, capri pants, and designer flip-flops. The era also saw an increasing influence of bohemian style, with flowy fabrics and beachy hairstyles, which fit perfectly with the Palm Beach lifestyle.
2010
The 2010s were defined by a fast-paced, digitally-driven culture, with social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest playing an essential role in shaping trends. In Palm Beach, fashion in the 2010s continued to embody a relaxed yet luxurious aesthetic. Palm Beach women embraced a more casual yet polished style, often incorporating athleisure into their wardrobes with high-end yoga pants, stylish sneakers, and chic workout gear. Flowy, breezy dresses, often in tropical prints or pastels, remained a staple, perfectly suited for the area's warm climate. There was also an increasing preference for sustainable, eco-friendly fashion choices, with women opting for brands that prioritized quality.
2025 - today!
Today in Palm Beach, fashion leans towards chic looks with light fabrics and vibrant pastel colors. Matching sets, floral dresses and high-end accessories are some of the most popular fashion trends currently in Palm Beach. This style blends elegance with a relaxed, resort-inspired aesthetic, making it a favored destination for fashion enthusiasts. The city's fashion scene is best capture in iconic destinations like Worth Avenue and The Colony Palm Beach. As seen on TikTok's @classofpalmbeach, the women of Palm Beach continue to embody timeless elegance but with a modern twist. Here are some of our favorite recent looks from @classofpalmbeach:
