Vigo County Historical Society

War forced fashion restraint

The Historical Museum of the Wabash Valley presents a double feature this Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Either attraction would be reason enough to come to the museum, but the combination makes a visit a must.

Along with a signing party of the new book, "On the Home Front, 1941-45," by Dorothy Jerse and Judith S. Calvert, the museum is opening the second in its series of exhibits recalling life, times and events of the World War II years.

"Fashions and Entertainment--the ‘40s" takes a look at the styles that were worn and the music and movies that provided some bright spots during difficult times.

During World War II, the old saying "War it out, use it up and make it do" applied to the clothing of the day.

Unlike Britain where clothing was rationed, new items were available in American stores. Because prices were frozen, manufacturers had to make garments as cheaply and with as little material as possible.

In order to conserve fabric, pockets were made as small as possible, men’s trousers came without cuffs, hems became mere turn-unders and seams were raw and narrow. Women’s purses and shoes were skimpy and were often made of oilcloth. There was no genuine leather and coats and jackets were minus fur trim, as genuine fur was either sent in Bundles for Britain or to servicemen on duty in the North Atlantic.

The luxury of having an outfit to fit each occasion was curtailed. Practicality and utility were key words, so women looked for clothing that could do double duty and that could be worn for daytime and evening.

Women were fashionable wearing fitted jackets with wide lapels and shoulder pads. Skirts were somewhat short and narrow. Slacks were not acceptable in the ‘40s, except for women working in factories.

Pictures in a well-tailored 1940s suit and hat of the era if the Historical Society’s executive director, Marylee Hagan. She is holding a two-piece polka-dot dress of taffeta with net overlay which was worn by Helen Vendel Kasper to her brother-in-law’s wedding in the early ‘40x.

The fashions and entertainment of the ‘40s will also be seen July 8 when the Historical Society presents "On the Go With the USO," in Shook Fieldhouse on the Rose Hulman campus. For more information please call (812) 235-9717.