In honour of Remembrance Sunday, we are going to take you back to the 1940’s. There’s no doubt that women’s fashion has come a long way from heavy dresses, corsets, and high heels. As women’s roles saw a significant change in the announcement of both World Wars, the evolution of women’s footwear and clothing has been greatly influenced by wartime ration restrictions and a growing need for practical dress.
The Emergence of Practical footwear
During both WWI and WWII, the fashion industry began to face significant challenges due to a lack of resources. As wool factories in German-occupied France became increasingly difficult to access, the growing need to conserve materials saw the beginning of lower heels and shorter hems.
As the wars progressed, the demand for durable and comfortable footwear was at an all time high as women began working manual jobs. While trends saw women wearing looser waists, smoother silhouettes, and pockets, many turned to men’s clothing out of necessity, tweaking old overalls to fit their bodies! When comparing this to the multiple daily outfit changes the women were used to, this practical shift was a dramatic change that would, of course, affect fashion for years to come.
As you can see, style choices for a whole generation of women were affected by a “make do” attitude, but that doesn’t mean that there weren’t any note-worthy trends that followed us into the 21st Century…
Wedge Heels
Wedge Heels were among the most iconic footwear choices of the 1940s. Made from non-rationed resources, many women wore cork heels and top straps formed from organic materials. Their thick-soled style with a medium-height heel could be both casual and formal in design, making them a popular choice for both American and British women looking for a comfortable yet stylish fit that they could walk in easily.
Boots
While shoes were only being produced in a limited number of colours, boots remained a supportive wardrobe essential for both soldiers withstanding long marches and trench warfare, and women in need of a lower heel. While women’s boots embodied a more fashionable design with decorative elements, ankle-high lace-up boots were a practical fit made for manual work.
Saddle Shoes
As a low-heeled lace-up with a featured contrasting colour resembling a saddle, these shoes are often characterised by their unique design as both visually appealing and versatile.
While Saddle shoes were initially designed with athletics in mind, their popularity among young and working women soon saw them transitioned into everyday fashion footwear, suitable for both casual and semi-formal occasions. Worn with relaxed attire like skirts and trousers, these shoes became a stylish and practical alternative for women spending long hours on their feet.
Fashion Today
With many trends still occupying space in fashion magazines, it’s clear that the World Wars still influence women’s fashion today, especially with Duchess Kate Middleton’s iconic military-inspired 2018 coat on display to honour fallen soldiers.
What will you wear this Sunday? Will you take inspiration from the changing fashion trends of the 1940’s? Or will you style your outfit around the ultimate Remembrance Day accessory…
From long trench coats and ankle boots to knitted jumpers and trainers, poppies go with everything so make sure to wear yours this Sunday.
Thank you for reading!
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