The Mid Twentieth Century Women’s Clothing - A Very Brief Guide

Women’s fashion at the beginning of the last century were radically different. This was partially because of the lack of modern materials available then, and also high cost of production. The whole outlook on design is different also. Today’s designs such as G Star womens clothes designs could not be imagined back then.

1900 was the era of long dresses that covered the legs.

The Hobbel Skirt made its appearance in 1910. It was so tight and pinched that women literally had to hobble to walk in it.

The world’s first form of bra was created in 1913 by Mary Crosby. It was made from a ribbon holding two handkerchiefs.

In 1915 lipstick was presented in a tube for the first time.

Throughout the 1920s the length of women’s knickers shortened. They started below the knee and ended well above the knee by the end of the decade.

The 1920s witnessed a style change from a feminine look toward a somewhat boy-like designs around the middle of the decade. The leather alternate vinyl was produced in 1924 and incorporated into styles and designs.

Fashion changed again in the 1930s when women became slightly more conservative and feminine.

It was during the 1930s that Nylon was invented by Wallace Carothers. This {brought new design ideas|enabled a whole range of new clothing ideas. Nylon made its appearance in the mid-1930, making new styles more availablebringing new design ideas.

Skirts got shorter during World War 2 since, well, there was less material for making them: everything, including textiles was rationed.

A fresh wave of design occurred during the second half of the 1940s. For example in 1946 the bikini was revealed. The hour glass figure was squeezed into our consciousness in 1947.

In 1946 the bikini was revealed to the world. In 1947 the ‘New Look’ from Christian Dior was introduced bringing long skirts and narrow waists - the hour glass figure had been born. The post-war 1940s years were a time of fashion invention.

A more female shape was in full swing in the 1950s rock and roll years, with more full skirts being all the rage, perfect for doing the twist.

The 1960s were a mix of many styles but Mary Quant’s mini skirt is a particular icon.