The fashion-craving lasses of the 1930s and '40s had a tough time of it! Coming of age during the the Great Depression, they spent too much time window-shopping as a result of the all too widespread economic deprivations that were the order of the day - only to be greeted on the other end by the fabric rationing that accompanied the Second World War. They had some good news in the form of a swanky garment that was called "Hostess Gowns" which were seen as ultra-feminine and tailored in the finer fabrics of the day:
"Top-notch fashion stores are finding a new wartime boom in luxury hostess gowns and pajamas; new styles for home reflect the latest dress fashion trends. Ruffles, waistline draping, beads, sequins and marabou add luxury; a number of dressy models might also be taken for dinner gowns..."
One boutique clerk exclaimed:
"I've never seen a season like this; we can't keep stock on our racks..."
More about W.W. II fashions can be read here.
Click here to read about the woman who dictated many of the fabric restriction rules on the American home front.
