Social trends dictate fashion. World War II changed world history along with the world of fashion forever.
For a long time, American fashion designers were inspired by People in Paris, until Germany occupied Paris, American designers started to create a new style of suits for women. Also, there was something called rationing. Skirts were short and straight topped by short jackets. Cardigans matched skirts and sheath evening dresses replaced the long flowing gowns of the thirties.
An austere silhouette with narrow hips, padded shoulders, and all manner of hats were the dominant elements of fashion. The working-class look of icons such as Rosie the Riveter became chic, as women of all social standings joined the war effort.
Everything was recycled, giving rise to such clever advertising as Vogue’s “Make Do & Mend” campaign.
With the end of World War II, in 1945, fashion saw a gradual explosion of unrestricted creativity. After the war women longed for frivolity in dress and desired feminine clothes that did not look like a military uniform. A more feminine look swung back: skirts became much fuller, tops began to be more form fitting with less drape. The broad shoulders quickly lost their status. Dior's “New Look” changed the face of fashion forever and made his name in fashion history.
Now the "Make Do and Mend" style has been called back, nothing to do with the war or rationing, simply, we just need that little bit more creativity and little bit lower cost...
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