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Women's Fashion

Men's Fashion

Children's Fashion

In 1940s fashion you had major shortages in fabric. Women had dresses down to their knees or a little below. The broad and square shoulders were in during that time because of the influence of military clothes. Clothes were very plain. Some women even made outfits for themselves and their children out of feed and flour sacks because that material was available to them. Women couldn't buy clothes every season so they had to have long lasting, durable garments. As you can see to the left, sailor tops and dresses were very popular especially to go along with some "Victory" red lipstick.

Under the petticoat, there was usually a corset which was known as a waspie. A waspie was a corset that defined the waist. The waspie had some garters to hold up the stockings. Fashion dictated that women have the tiny waists and high bust lines, so women felt they needed very structured underwear. The circle stitched bra was designed to separate and lift the bust. Full length slips and full skirted waist slips were worn. Most of the women wore uplift bras and a girdle.

Women in the 40's were determined to have nice legs, if you could afford stockings, great! If not, you painted them. Although, after awhile they had to wear leg paint instead of stockings because silk and nylon hose were scarce. If you had nylon hose, you were considered lucky and special! When they painted, they couldn't have forgotten the seam to make it look real. As you can see on the left, Rebecca is displaying a silk stocking and you can see the seam. On the right, you will find an ad for leg paint which came in many different brands.

Hats in the 40's were usually pretty small, and often followed the military look. They were also like that because of the shortages in clothing. Hats were often made out of felt, feathers and netting. Hats were one of the only things that were not rationed or restricted during the war. Some hats were made to match the outfits. They were usually luxuries. Many women also wore turbans and scarves to tie back their hair.

Above are examples of hairstyles from the World War II era. Hair was usually pulled back and fastened with bandanas, scarves or barrettes. Turbans were popular also, especially with the glamorous Hollywood stars.

When sweethearts were away at war, they usually communicated by mail. Couples sent gifts in the mail to show how much they loved each other. These pieces of jewelry were often sent as engagement pieces or just to show they were still there and living, and to say "I love you." When women received these they always treasured them forever. These pieces became even more special if the husband didn't survive the war.

Below you will find more examples of 1940s jewelry. Thanks to Dr. Ray Kurtz from KSU for sharing these with us so we could share them with you.

1940's Fashion