Final answer:
The design of women's clothing in the 1920s, including the move away from corsets to flapper dresses, represented a social shift towards greater freedom and practicality that reflected and promoted the changing roles of women in society.
Step-by-step explanation:
The way in which women's clothes were designed in the early 20th century, particularly during the 1920s, had a profound impact on society. The corset, an undergarment that exemplified the restrictions of women's clothing, became vastly unpopular as new values came to the forefront due to World War I and the contributions of women to the war effort. The fashions of the 1920s, such as the flapper dress, reflected a shift towards more practical and comfortable attire that allowed for greater freedom of movement and an overall liberation from the strict, figure-focused styles of the past.
This shift in fashion also represented a change in societal expectations and the roles of women. As they entered the workforce in greater numbers and took on jobs traditionally held by men, especially during wartime, the need for practical and less restricting clothing became apparent. Post-war, women embraced these changes and continued to move toward more practical and comfortable clothing, which also mirrored their newfound confidence and desire for a more active role in society.
The change in women's fashion thus symbolized the broader social changes of the era, encapsulating the desire for freedom, agency, and a breakaway from traditional gender roles. The 'New Woman' of the era defied past conventions, stepping into a future marked by a distinctive style and new independence, which laid the groundwork for the modern women's movement.