Wearing vintage-inspired clothing is incredibly fun. The ’40s in particular were an interesting era for fashion, as those years contained elements of drama, and an air of sophistication-all while remaining incredibly demure. Many designers are leaning toward this specific era in their clothing lines for fall and spring. These pieces can really refresh your wardrobe and take you out of a fashion rut. But take care in selecting the pieces you wear, lest you appear like an extra from an old Turner Broadcasting film (no offense to old Turner Broadcasting films…)
High Heeled Spectator Shoe
A relatively safe way to begin incorporating 40’s pieces is with the feet. Start by trying out a high-heeled spectator oxford. These shoes have a classic charm. But their high-heels (of varying heights and “girths”) are what provide them that modern appeal. Beware; there are several different “mod” versions of this shoe. By sticking with a more conservative version you will get much more wear out of them-even after the fad passes. Don them with a pencil skirt and a sexy ruffled blouse. It will help greatly if said blouse is in a bright color, so as not to look too sedate. Or give the style some “funk” and wear them with a classic tweed mini and a pair of slinky leg warmers in a neutral color.
When it comes to funk, then you have various options to choose from as cheap wholesale clothing & discount fashion are the new norms of the society because fashion statements truly define your personality while the color pattern is an added bonus
Cropped Mock Cape
This ultra glam look is terrific for the fall and winter-especially with a slim turtleneck underneath. Weekend wear calls for a trim pair of dark-washed jeans. Dress the mock cape with a few strands of chunky necklaces in rustic hues. These will keep the cape from looking too dowdy.
And depending upon the texture and embellishment on the mock cape, you could also toss one over a slinky mini-dress. The mock effect is terrific for adding a touch of glamour to an otherwise simple dress. To keep the outfit from looking too dated, be certain to pop on a really sexy shoe.
Jackets with “Strong” Shoulders
Watch any of Turner’s classic films, and you’ll notice that many of the damsels wore jackets with very defined shoulders. Don’t get this confused with the monster shoulder pads of the 80’s. The 40’s shoulder contained sharp lines, but were very tailored, with the rest of the jacket cutting fairly close to the woman’s shape. The modern twist on these jackets reveals cropped lengths worn with belts. There are lots of ways to play up this particular style. The narrow mini works well with tights and an exaggerated shoe bootie. Remember to keep hair soft and wavy with these structured styles, as this is also a relevant throwback to the fabulous 40’s.
A-Line Skirts
Another thing to note is the popularity of the A-line skirt. These skirts were traditionally worn longer during the 1940’s-often with a matching blouse of the same color. The contemporary version of this style dictates a slightly shorter hemline. You’ll find that dresses with this kind of hem will have cinched waists (some with belts) and muted, sophisticated tones. These kinds of skirts and dresses look fabulous with T-strap pumps.
Accessories
If you really want to affect that vintage charm, get yourself a pair of sophisticated gloves. To pull off the look without appearing too kitschy, make sure to wear them in weather conducive to “warming the fingers.” Belts and mini-tote bags are essential to exacting the conservative chic of 40’s fashion. Fashionistas will also be unafraid to experiment with hats. Most hats were generally on the small side, so as to reveal a woman’s supple wavy hair. Fedoras with a delicate brim also showcase this era quite well, especially with a few well-placed embellishments.