1940’s in fashion

1940’s in fashion for women in WW2. Trends, utility dresses, seamed stockings, peplum’s, shoulder pads, and the post war New Look.

1940’s in Fashion

Women in World War 2 left us an iconic and beguiling style which is forever celebrated in movies, books and magazines. Rationing encouraged women to “make do and mend”. With all resources going to the war effort, Fabric shortage meant longer skirts and less revealing evening dresses. Austerity was reflected by a more austere fashion in the early 1940’s. Makeup and hairstyles however never looked better.
Browse the 1940’s fashion trends as worn by women in that troubled decade. Find inspiration for your next 1940’s style dress, victory rolls hairstyle.

Key Trends of the 1940’s in Fashion and Style

  • Seamed stockings
  • Bolero jacket
  • Shoulder pad dress
  • Shirt dress
  • Utility Dress
  • Victory Rolls
  • Trench coats
  • Sailor pants
  • Bobby socks
  • Bullet and strapless bras
  • Red lipstick

Now you know the highlights, dive in to our archive of 1940’s fashion history. Find out how women in WW2 lived, worked, served in the forces and of course dressed.

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