1930-1940

As the depression began fashion contrasted to have great innovations despite the economic fall. All around the world were in great financial crisis and there was a noticeable difference in the classes or richer and poorer people. Wealthier people benefitted as they kept servants, could travel, were well educated- this allowed the cycle to carry on as the richer well educated people would get good jobs and raise wealthier families who would provide their children with better education, and so the cycle continues. However the poorer people who had to live with large families cramped into small rooms and unhealthy living situations with little or no education would carry on that cycle of raising poor families as families could not afford to get their children good education and therefore would not get good jobs with a worthy income.

 

Although in the previous decade hemlines were raised to the knee, this era portrayed a very classy sophisticated, to contrast to the depression people tried to put on a front and still dress respectably and well-dressed to cover the financial problems they may have had. Longer hemlines returned and waistlines went back to waist height instead of hipline. Designers now focused on a classier, elegant style but keeping it simple for people to still be able to afford the clothing as the depression left everyone in an economic down fall.

 

 

Towards the end of the decade small shoulder pads became popular leading to the big emphasis on them in the 40’s. This was the very beginning of where media influenced fashion, movies influenced how women dressed and what they thought about fashion. The ‘hollywood image’ became very big, as women aspired to style and look like famous celebrities in this era, idols included Marlene Dietrich.

 

 

 

Hats became very popular and a ‘must have’ fashion choice when going out, almost everyone, men and women, wore hats when on outings. Hats were normally Plate shaped hats worn towards the back of the head. Men in suits were still big and carried on as a popular choice throughout this era. Even lower class men would try and aspire to get a suit.

 

New silhouette shape was founded as garments became more tight fitted, widened shoulders, longer figure hugging skirts, brought in at waist. New popular styles arised as godets and pleats below knee were introduced showing a more fishtail design.