With the start of World War I in 1914, the need for practicality and mobility in clothing was amplified, and popular fashions eventually mirrored military styles. Even before the entrance of the United States into the war, Americans adopted militaresque styles due to the ongoing influence of European fashion. The hallmark of women’s clothing from 1915 to 1918 was the blouse paired with a shorter and wider skirt or suit that incorporated masculine and militaresque design elements, such as darker colors and khaki, pockets, uniform-like jackets, and braided trim. The cut of most clothing during the war was simple and conservative as well due to the rationing of fabrics, especially wool and cotton, making these materials expensive and scarce.
Though the United States did not enter the war until 1917, wartime fashion found its way into American women's wardrobes as a result of Europe's continuing influence on fashion. This 1915 excerpt from the Topeka State Daily Journal advertised the current Parisian styles, including one on the far right…
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Photograph of female munitions workers in Washington, D.C. During the war, many women stepped in to fill traditionally male roles and jobs, resulting in the widespread adoption of looser-fitting and more comfortable daily clothing. Aside from the popular suit style, another option was simply a blouse…
This is another example of a World War 1 era suit. Notice, however, that there are more decorative elements, as well as a larger collar and lapels. This suggests that the suit may have been worn prior to the U.S. entering the war or after it ended.SourceK-State Historic Costume & Textile Museum,…
This suit consisting of a tunic jacket and a-line skirt is a great example of the military-inspired style worn during World War I. Similar to the military uniforms, the cut is simple and conservative allowing for comfort and mobility, as well as conserving fabric for the war effort. Note also the lack…
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