Holiday Wear - Inspiration from the 1940's

Holiday Wear - Vintage Inspiration from the 1940's & 1950's


I think so much of my love for the two decades come from styling influenced by historical events and cultural changes. 

World War II changed the world of fashion forever. In March of 1942 War Production Board issued regulation L - 85, which regulated every aspect of clothing. All stock of natural fabrics were utilized for war efforts and yardage restricting went into effect.

"Make do and mend!"





American designers created a new style of suits for women, skirts were short and straight topped by short jackets of twenty-five inches or less in length. Cardigans matched skirts and sheath evening dresses replacing the long flowing gowns of the thirties.





Just sold to miss luluparali2 who will no doubt be showing it off this Holiday season.  
 



separates

American designers introduced the concept of separates and co-coordinating components in order to create the illusion of more outfits than one actually had. Classic sportswear styles took hold.








accessorize










post-war

After the war, the American woman was ready for a change. In 1947, Dior introduced the New Look, featuring longer hem lengths and fuller skirts. Woman's fashion shifted to a soft, feminine and romantic image.

Many varieties of peplums were in vogue: butterfly, bustle and gathered peplums were just a few. Ruffles found their way to skirt hems, necklines and waists. Gored, gathered and A-line skirts were topped with soft, feminine blouses. Blouses donned bows at the center-front neckline and might sport full or puffy sleeves. Collars were cut generously full, in peter pan and traditional pointed shirt-collar designs. Lace also accentuated blouses around the neckline.






The Alternative Slim Silhouette of the 1950s