1940s Costumes

The 1940's were the times of the world war and fashion in those days was profoundly affected by that. The war was the reason why a lot of new innovations happened during those days and the fashion industry was changed forever. All the 1940s Costumes were, as a result designed and created in a completely different style. In spite of this, fashion from the 1940s is such a classic look that it never really goes out of style. You'll find that almost anywhere you go wearing 1940s fashion, you get a lot of positive attention.

War's Affect on Fashion

Even during those days before the World War, Paris was the fashion capital of the world. But when Germany attacked France, the American designers had to fend off on their own. Hence they designed sportswear during those days. This resulted in exponential growth of the sportswear industry in the US. The government also took all natural fabrics for itself and this in turn led to the growing use of artificial fibers such as nylon and rayon in US.

The typical 1940's dress is flattering to the female figure, is classic in style and emphasizes the waist producing an "hourglass figure". During those days, the casual style of dressing was getting popular and a hemline just below the knee was getting in vogue. Also, the influence of the thrifty 1930's was getting lessened in the 1940's and this led to a more feminine look for the homemaker as compared to the "flapper" look of the 1930s. The blouses thus became full and boxy, with close fitting skirts. All these things happened mainly because of the end of the Great Depression.

During those times, the American women started buying more clothes and created better looking, decorative clothes. But by the second half of the 1940s, this trend also reversed and the affects of the war began to show on the dressing of the women.

1940's Accessories

Gloves were popular in those days, but they had taken a more casual look. Horn rimmed glasses first arrived in 1947 and they have been considered fashionable ever since. Even the hairstyles of that period became more casual and the short hairstyles with modest curls were considered high fashion. Even the makeup and the lip stick changed in those days. While trying out Costumes of the 1940's, it will do well if you don't imitate completely and try some mix and match in the costume as that will make you look all the more in vogue and yet from that era.

So now you know all about the 1940s costumes. Flip on through our collection and choose the one that appeals your taste the best! DressyCostumes offers you wide variety for not only patterns, but also colors and sizes.