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History of Fancy Dress

The origins of fancy dress parties in the UK can in some respects be traced to masked balls of the 18th Century period[citation needed], although Fancy Dress parties of the modern kind are a largely Victorian conception[citation needed] expanded upon by the Edwardians. Notable amongst early events in the 20th Century was the Chelsea Arts ball. Such events were often elaborate affairs and for the most part confined to those with considerable means.[citation needed] Amongst the general population, costume parties also occurred with increasing frequency from the late 1940's onward, although for the most part the costumes were simple affairs until the mid 70's. Prior to 'cheap' costume imports from the Far East (late 1990's)[citation needed] most costumes were either hired, or home constructed. Retail purchased costumes is in respect of the UK, a largely modern phenomenon (late 1990's onward) although 'accessory' items had been available for some time.[citation needed] Characters at a Halloween party in Dublin in 2006 Coupled with the modern trend in costume parties, 'retro' fashion as a costume theme ( such as a 70's or even 80s fancy dress ) are also popular in the UK, the costumes to some extent parodying or pastiching the fashions of earlier decades. Amongst the most popular parodied costumes are: Audrey Hepburn (as Holly Golightly; Madonna in her classic stage outfits and more recently Lady Gaga. Fancy dress parties are popular year round in the UK. Bridget Jones features the popular and classic theme "Tarts and Vicars". Fancy dress parties are also a favorite of the British Royal Family. Prince William celebrated his 21st birthday with an "Out of Africa" theme, Princess Beatrice chose an 1888 themed party for her 18th birthday, and Freddie and Gabriella Windsor celebrated a joint birthday party with a pre-French Revolution courtly theme. Prince Harry infamously wore an Afrika Corps uniform with a Nazi armband to a "Colonials and Natives" themed party in January 2005. There was a large international outcry after the Sunday tabloid News of the World published a photo of him in the costume.

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History of Fancy Dress