If you don't see the 1940's pattern that you are looking for in our catalogue, please don't hesitate to contact us. We have lots of patterns available that aren't listed on our site.
Please note that these patterns are vintage patterns therefore the envelopes are not in perfect shape. Small rips, tears, creases, discoloration, writing, etc. is to be expected. If the envelope is badly worn that information will be noted in each description.
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There are three distinct fashion periods of the 1940s ~~~ The Early 40's, the mid 40's & the late 40's.
Early 1940's Clothing Fashions
The fashion style of the 1930's was still dominate during the early 40's. Hem lines on skirts & dresses was sitting at the mid-calf length. House dresses were very popular. The changing style from the 1930's led to the house dress having less of a homemade look.
Once the Great Depression was coming to an end, ladies began to become free to buy patterns that used more fabric, with such elements as gathers, double-breasted blouses and suits, complicated collars, decorative pockets & skirts with more flair.
Small hats with netting that would hang over the face were popular accessories for 1940's clothing. Bakelite jewelery was popular.
Mid 1940's Clothing Fashions
Due to the warfabric began to be rationed and any patriotic Mrs. at home wouldn't dare use excessive material. Most material during this time was used for the War effort, and fashions became creative about using less material. leg makeup began to be made available as a replacement for stockings, and ladies were lucky if they had a friend who could draw a nice straight faux seam for them in eyeliner.
1940''s Skirts were short and straight topped by short jackets of twenty-five inches or less in length. Cardigans matched skirts and sheath evening dresses replaced the long flowing gowns of the thirties.
Accessories were more minimal during this time. These were smartly matched according to color. Modest jewelry and small hats were common.
Late 1940's Clothing Fashions
After the war, women were ready for a change. They were tired of the severely tailored garments they were forced to wear during the war. Woman's fashion changed to a soft, feminine and romantic image.
Many varieties of peplums were popular. These included butterfly, bustle and gathered peplums. Ruffles were popular on skirt hems, necklines and waists. Gored, gathered and A-line skirts were topped with soft, feminine blouses. Blouses had bows at the center-front neckline and might sport full or puffy sleeves. Lace was popular on blouses around the neckline.
Undergarments finally made the transition to two separate pieces, the bra and the girdle. After World War II, wire was introduced into bras. Nylon stockings came back on the market.
