The Second World War touched almost every aspect of American life, and fashion is no exception. Enacted in 1942, the U.S. imposed a rationing system similar to Great Britain last year, limiting, among other things, the amount of tissue that could be used in a single garment. Materials such as wool, silk, leather and a young DuPont Corp. invention called nylon uniforms were diverted, parachutes, laces, and even the nose of the bomber.

Jack could not be more than 25 cm in length pants no longer than 19 inches in circumference at the hem, belt no more than two inches wide and heels be no more than an inch high. Hems rose knee in an effort to conserve fabric. Buttons, cuffs, pockets, and decorative details such as ruffles and lace were used sparingly. Women wore short jackets for a square silhouette reminds V-shaped military uniforms. Even Hollywood negotiated elaborate costumes for simplified design, claimed a substantial number of films lent a touch of realism. » Read more: Top Ten Fashion Trends From the 1940′s