Women Fashions: 1940s

Welcome to The Costume Gallery's research area for 20th Century Fashions during the 1940s. This era is frequently referred to as the Big Band era. Swing music was fashionable and reflected the way people dressed. This decades fashions were heavily influenced by World War II. There were many fashions from this era as you will see by the references below.

EXTRA! EXTRA!!!
We are in the news! The Associated Press interviewed The Costume Gallery about 1940s fashions. Click HERE to read the article (go to page 2).

  An American Point of View: The Vincent Collection

  American Vintage Blues: 1940-1950

  Christine's Costume Page: 1940s (Australia)

 The Costume Institute:

  Fashion in the Forties

  History of Jantzen Red Bathing Suits: 1940s

  Mannequins: From Plaster to Fiberglass

  Nylon Riots (History Channel)

 Opera-Gloved Celebrities 1940s (***this is a massive site with tons of beautiful photos. Make sure to click on the images for enlargements!)

Pattern and Images from 1940-1949: Sense and Sensibility Site

  Handbags: Then and Now

  Shoes: 1935-1945

  Vintage Fashion Collection: 1840-1940

  Wartime Fashions

 Women of Style: 1949 Evening Gown Photograph

  Womens' Fashions in the 1940s by Carol Nolan

 Suggested Reading:

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