Vintage clothing from all eras has always fascinated me; however, the fashions of the 1940’s are the ones that really catch my eye. Veiled hats, shoulder pads, seamed stockings, and clothing that create an hourglass shape are all trademarks from that decade. Capturing the subtle 1940’s fashion trends and not the entire look is the key and can be difficult. Here are a few helpful fashion hints to achieve a vintage 1940’s look.
1940’s Fashion – Hourglass Shape
Making the shoulders and hips look wider than the waist was the look 1940’s women were trying to achieve. The focus was put on the waist, making it look smaller by wearing billowy blouses with puffed sleeves and belted skirts. Try a blouse with puffy, three-quarters length sleeves and a belted skirt or slacks.
1940’s Fashion – Shoulder Pads and Colors
To help make that waist look smaller, wear blouses with shoulder pads (not the mega sized ones from the 1980’s). Add a pair of matching gloves to your outfit, and bring out those vivid color clothes you have hidden away in a dark corner of your closet. Full skirts also make the waist appear smaller, so try a ruffled or gathered skirt.
1940’s Fashion – Sexy Frills
Women in the 1940’s embraced their femininity and sexuality by wearing ruffles and sheer fabrics. Try wearing a high neckline blouse or a dress with draped sleeves made from sheer fabrics. Do not forget the seamed stockings. Men over the decades have commented that seamed stockings are one of the sexiest pieces of clothing a woman can wear.
Almost all women wore hats during the 1940’s. It did not matter if they were small or large, veiled or not. Women loved them and wore them. Add one to your outfit. You would be surprised the compliments you get. Besides, it is a surefire fix for a bad hair day.
1940’s Fashion – Men’s Clothing
The 1940’s was the decade when many women who had entered the workforce due to World War II, started wearing men’s clothing. They wanted to be acknowledge as a contender in the work field, so they dressed the part and fashion designers followed suit. Today it is nothing for a woman to wear a business suit, but how about wearing a double-breasted jacket with subtle shoulder pads, and matching baggy pants. Make sure the jacket slims to your middle and enhances your waist.
1940’s Fashion – The Wave Hairdo
Top off your outfit with a sexy finger wave hairstyle. There are plenty of Internet sites that show you how to create the finger waves, or splurge and go to a professional. Add red lipstick to your look and you are done. Click here for more information of 1940’s makeup.
