Mental Floss

FASHION



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Polka dots are a major part of fashion, but that wasn't always the case. Here's the history behind the design—and why they're called polka dots in the first place.

Tasia Bass






















Ripped denim and bellbottoms have some unusual origins.

From high-waisted denim and ultra-wide legs to extreme cut-outs and double denim, jeans have seen their fair share of dubious trends (and outright fashion disasters). Here are nine (sometimes embarrassing) demin trends and where they came from.

Emily Reily