Tuesday, July 23, 2013

1940's Retro




I wasn't excited about getting on the peplum bandwagon until I saw Simplicity 1590. To me, it's the true essence of the retro peplum of the 40's and 50's. I love its simple lines, flattering neckline, cap sleeve, cinched in waist and full skirted peplum.
 
Are these adorable or what?




And there is an interesting fashion history story on the instruction page that I thought was very enlightening:
 
"Social trends always had a certain amount of influence over fashion. With the onset of WW II, the United States experienced the largest change in fashion to date. Prior to the war, the American designers were traveling abroad for inspiration for their designs. 1941 changed all that and laid the foundation for the United States to become the sportswear capital of the world.
 
American designers went from full to slim in all silhouettes. Skirts were shortened and were topped with above hip length jackets. Evening wear went from long, flowing gowns to slim fitted sheaths. Designers created separates and coordinating pieces as they were guided by the War Production Board to design fashions that would remain stylish and wearable through the seasons. The American fashion staple of mix and match pieces, or coordinated separates and wardrobes was born."
 
Here are a couple more photos:
 
 
And side view:
 
 
I love my blouse! And the polka dots, too.

16 comments:

  1. I love this look--and the polka dots are a great match for the style.

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  2. Thanks, Robin! I thought about the coin size dots at first but then decided that the smaller ones were more in keeping with the era.

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  3. What a lovely fresh looking top. Very nice. Great shape to it.

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    1. Thanks, BeaJay, not too many things fresher than polka dots on crisp white cotton!

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  4. VERY cute!! It is also super flattering!

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  5. AWESOMENESS!!! I love that era of the oldies but yet still goodies :)

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    1. Thanks, MAD14kt, I love this era, too, and plan to try some other retro styles.

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  6. Love your peplum top with the slim fitting pants.
    That's taking the style from the past and making it current.
    Very Pretty!

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    1. Thanks, Roz! Oh, I just realized how cute this would be in that orange pique you have on your site!

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  7. Replies
    1. Thanks, Linda...you should give it a try...it's so easy!

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  8. Its cute. I'd love to see it teamed with a pencil skirt. You know the full hobble look of the 50s!

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    1. Thanks, Gail! I totally agree with you on the pencil skirt. A longish one that is skin tight. I do have that plan!

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  9. What a perfect fit! Beautiful job with the button details too.

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