Fashion in the 1940s was a mix of utility clothing and patriotic styles. Hats and caps were common, although not under much regulation. Some women wore big hats, while others wore small, simple ones. Hats were also a good way to add some feminine touches to utilitarian clothing. Men, of course, wore suits, even if they weren’t in uniform. Many men wore older suits from the 1930s, though. Suit vests fell out of fashion, and new suits were made from wool-rayon blend fabric or patterned fabrics.
Dresses
Fashion in the 1940s saw a marked evolution in women’s clothing. The war affected the way clothing was made and styles changed accordingly. Printed patterns became smaller to facilitate matching. Women’s clothing also received a utilitarian makeover. The government aimed to ensure the quality of clothing. Women could also buy second-hand clothing.
Women’s 1940s fashion dresses were designed with many different fabrics. Cotton, rayon shantung, and various sheer fabrics were used to make the attire. The fabrics featured prints, woven checks, and stripes. Solid and bright colors were also popular during this period. Some dresses were made with lace or other embellishment. They had low necklines or v-necks and high hemlines.
In the 1940s, the fashion industry faced many challenges. The war had affected raw materials and factories were turned over for military use. As a result, many of the fabrics were scarce. The fashion industry had to make do with the available supplies. In 1945, Lana Turner made a movie called Keep Your Powder Dry, highlighting the ’40s fashion era.
In the 1940s, women began to play an increasingly important role in the economy and in the military. There were an estimated 350,000 women in the armed forces, most of whom wore uniforms outside the home. Women also worked in factories, often in work boots and denim pants. A change in style took place in the mid-’40s when women wore dresses and skirts.
Shoes
If you’re a lover of the 1940s era, you’ll love these shoes. They feature a sexy peep-toe design and high heels in leather or wood. These shoes are in great condition, but the outer heels are starting to lift. Other details include buckle detailing and a wood pattern.
Women’s 1940s shoes included many styles including lace-up oxfords, wedgies, platform shoes, and peep-toe pumps. They were also available in more casual styles like saddle shoes, penny loafers, and summer sandals. These women’s shoes were comfortable and versatile, and they could be worn for sports or evening, depending on the style and the material used.
Uniforms
During the war, the fashion industry shifted from individuality to uniformity. The shift was particularly visible during the World War II, when rationing impacted the availability of materials for clothing. The wartime fashion era featured many uniform styles, and the biggest example is military uniforms. The men in the army and women in the military wore uniforms, and women were encouraged to dress more plainly for work.
Men, on the other hand, tended to wear suits they already owned. However, in 1943, a controversial new style gained popularity: the “zoot suit.” This men’s fashion harking back to Harlem’s “drape” suits of the 1930s, this uniform style featured an oversized jacket and voluminous trousers tapered at the ankles, finished with a wide tie.
During the war, men were required to wear uniforms, but even those who weren’t on active duty had to follow dress codes. In response to the strict dress codes, many men chose to wear older suits, which helped the war effort. Men’s suits tended to be more fitted than their women’s counterparts. They also often wore pants without cuffs and without a vest. They wore ties in Windsor knots. Shirts had rounded collars.
Women’s fashion also reflected the war effort, with a large number of women entering the armed forces. Their clothing styles were largely dictated by the military and rationing, and many were forced to wear uniforms. After the war, however, Christian Dior introduced the New Look in Paris, bringing women’s fashion back to a more feminine silhouette. Meanwhile, men began to lean toward a more sportswear style, the American Look.