UNIT B EVOLUTION AND MOVEMENT OF FASHION The 40's 2.03 Recognize the relationship between historical events and fashion evolution.

Mood of the decade World War II Women re-entered the workforce Parisian Fashion houses closed their doors due to German invasion of Paris American fashion designers emerged Shorter skirts Sloppy Joe sweaters Bikini introduced

Mood of the decade World War II (cont.) L-85 (General Limitations Order) restricted amount of fabric used in production of apparel. Designers had to create fashions that would remain stylish through multiple seasons. A new style of suits for women had short skirts and short jackets of twenty-five inches or less in length. Sheath evening dresses replaced the long flowing gowns of the thirties.

Mood of the decade World War II (cont.) Restrictions limited use of silk, wool, rubber, metal Tailored masculine-looking suit The young danced the jitterbug.

Mood of the decade World War II (cont.) Postwar fashion freedom Women wanted a return to more feminine designs. Christian Dior introduced the “New Look” with rounded shoulders, fuller bustlines, and fuller skirts fifteen inches off the ground. Paris was re-established as the center of the fashion world.

People who influenced fashion Christian Dior—designer of the “New Look”; first to license name Norman Norrell—winner of the first Coty American Fashion Critics Award; founder of CFDA Cristobal Balenciaga—known for huge evening coats, long, full skirts, pillbox hats, and chemise dresses

People who influenced fashion Jacques Fath—first French designer to export designs to the United States Elsa Schiaparelli—known for surreal designs and bold use of color Adrian—Hollywood costume designer whose screen fantasies influenced street fashions