1940's Fashion

     The 1940’s was the war era. Due in part to the war occupying the first half of the decade, Swing and Big Band music still dominated the music industry. During the latter half of the 40’s, Rhythm and Blues along with Be-bop became part of the Big Band mix. Bing Crosby, Perry Como, Billy Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra were some of the big names of this era. The Jitterbug was still in full swing as was the Lindy. Less modern dances were still being done in form of waltz, polka and foxtrot.

Rita Hayworth

     Unfortunately for women, this decade began with a war stricken country still tugging on the coattails of an economic nightmare. Fabric and materials of almost any kind were in short supply due to the war demands. Fashion became less formal and very simple in design due to necessity. Women relied on jewelry, pins and hair accessories to make their attire more decorative. The silhouette of this era concentrated on the narrow hips, padded shoulders and hats of all kinds.

     Get the 1940’s look with suit jacket and soft matching skirt in a thin or slender silhouette. Try a full-length, simply styled slim fitting dress or anything with a really flowing and formal aura. Dress it up with a pair of longer gloves, fancy updo, hair accessories and jewelry or a brooch. An evening bag or purse was essential.