Basic 1940's Wardrobe

[Roxy Tart {PL Team / Comm. Mgr}]

**Since the site got a little setback, I am reposting this question (and a few others..lol)**

*Same as the 50's question, but for the 40's, I know I'm difficult :)*

If you were to build a basic 1940's wardrobe, what would it have in it? What items would be most important? What would you buy to best get the look?

How about beyond basic? What would a 40's girl need to complete her wardrobe?

[Roxy Tart {PL Team / Comm. Mgr}]

Oh my word. Beautiful pictures.

sfphotojournal said:

http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=1940&w=32376209%40N08

[Cotton Candy Gonsalves]

Lots of A-line dresses and skirts with hemlines just below or hitting the knee. (Remember the war was on!)

Swing coats, high waisted wide leg trousers and shorts, mid-length heels with straps, espadrilles, heeled oxfords,

blousey tops, tropical prints and hair flowers, hats with architectural stylings, housedresses, silken bathrobes, two piece suits, skinny belts, oversized clutch purses (Held underarm), pullover sweaters, bobby socks, saddle shoes, seamed stockings, gloves, form fitting skirted swimsuits and of course foundation garments. 

 

That's everything I can think of! ;D Hope this helps.

[The Trousseau]

One rayon/wool blend tweed suit.  Triangular shoulder pads, mannish-tailored, no more than 6 buttons, not too tight skirt covers the knee, metal zipper or single button near pocket on the side. One pair wide heeled black or dark brown pumps, 2" heels, round toes.  Croc or alligator to save leather for the war effort.  One matching purse.  One tailored, sensible hat to match.  Gloves.  Always wear gloves. 

 

One rayon shirtwaist dress in a neutral, somber color.  Large, triangular shoulder pads, no more than 6 buttons, roomy on the top.  Same accessories as above. 

 

One nipped waist, rayon, nylon or acetate blouse, cap/raglan sleeve, sheer, with small embroidered flowers.  Single button back closure.  One rayon, nylon or acetate camisole to go under. This is to go with the suit.

 

Girdle and high waist panties.  Two pair nylon seamed stockings. 

 

One wide shouldered, rayon, black, curve hugging dress, knee length. Same shoes as the suit, but add shoe clips for night wear.  Black gloves, fox drape or mink trimmed coat for warmth.  Alternatively, a silk satin coat works well. 

 

For a war effort girl, one pair high waisted dungarees.  One cotton blouse, nipped waist, hitting above the hips, tucked into dungarees.  One pair of loafers. Pants were only acceptable on the lower class, working women, and for women who did not consider themselves, "ladies". 

 

Two sensible house dresses and several aprons, depending on occupation.  Cotton. 

 

One knee length trench or swing coat, depending on one's class/occupation.  One summer romper, if one is young enough to get away with it-- that is, no more than 30. 

 

This would actually make up the entire wardrobe of a middle class woman of the time.  She would have taken very good care of each item and not replaced items unless they were well-worn.  Add another suit or two, and a n evening dress or two for those with money and you have a full closet.  Hair flowers-- contrary to popular belief, they were rarely worn.  No red belts, except on the girls that mothers did not want you to hang out with.  No gum.  Cork shoes were new and based on the need to use other materials for the war effort.  They were held in minor disdain.  Very little was made from silk or wool, as the war effort needed those fabrics.  Rayon was the fabric of the day. 

[Roxy Tart {PL Team / Comm. Mgr}]

Thank you so much for adding to and bringing this thread back to life.

[Scarlett_Rose]

Yay! Thank you both for sharing! And yes, Ms. Roxy Tart, the photos are AWESOME! :oD