1940's Fashion

There were many factors at play in the '40's affecting the fashion of the day. In 1940, the US was coming out of the Great Depression and Europe was in World War II. As the war progressed, more countries were involved and rationing became more widespread. The rationing of all types of commodities including fabric caused people to cut back on their wardrobes drastically. Fashion was impacted by the shortages and the Forties style became a wide-shouldered look with a straight skirt. Frills were almost nonexistent. Clothing was functional and practical. Design elements like turn-back cuffs were eliminated to save material. This '40's silhouette is captured in this Heffy's Collections offering:

Red checkerboard suit

After the war, people were anxious to let go of the restraints imposed. Capitalizing on this desire, Christian Dior revealed his Corolle collection in 1947 and it was quickly dubbed "New Look" by the media. He featured a softer, more feminine style with long flowing skirts and a nipped waist which needed a corset. The new look took off, catapulting Dior to fame. This look continued into the Fifties.

Heffy's Collections has a "40's dress by Blakely that is really stunning. It is a departure from the early austere look, but not quite the flowing skirt Dior brought to fashion. It has exquisite details:

Check it out

For more information and pictures of 1940's fashion, check out Vintage Fashion Guild's timeline:

http://www.vintagefashionguild.org