From Functionalism to Eclecticism: the impact of design movements on colour trends

Abstract

This article explores the evolution of colour use in fashion and design, starting from 20th-century Functionalism to contemporary Eclecticism in the 21st century. Throughout the 20th century, artistic and cultural movements profoundly influenced the role of colour, changing aesthetic preferences and shaping collective taste. From Bauhaus and Modernism, which conceived colour as a functional element subordinate to form, to Postmodernism and Eclecticism, which re-evaluated colour as a means of expression and symbol of identity, the socio-cultural context has shaped how colour has been used in design and fashion. The aim is to critically examine the evolution of colour in design and fashion, analysing how different design movements have influenced colour trends and assessing how social and cultural changes have contributed to redefining the use and perception of colour. Through a systematic review of the literature, interviews, and case studies of iconic fashion designers, the work aims to understand the connections between design, fashion, and culture, as well as the role that colour has played in this process of evolution. The method adopted combines a review of the literature with a qualitative analysis of visual materials and historical documents, as well as interviews with contemporary designers. Comparative analysis, thematic analysis, and contextual analysis were employed to explore the use of colour across different historical phases, highlighting the connections between artistic movements and shifts in society's colour preferences. Data triangulation enabled the validation of the results, providing a comprehensive view of colour evolution. The results show that colour, initially relegated to a functional role during Functionalism and Modernism, gradually took on an expressive role during Postmodernism and contemporary Eclecticism. This shift reflects cultural and technological changes that have influenced aesthetic taste and the use of colour as a tool for communication and identity. The analysis also highlighted the importance of sustainability and technological innovations in determining new colour trends. In conclusion, the evolution of colour use in fashion and design reflects a dynamic process influenced by social, cultural and technological factors. Colour has evolved from a simple, functional element to a powerful means of expression, capable of communicating identity and cultural values, thereby contributing to the redefinition of contemporary design's aesthetic paradigms.