40s party dresses? (1 Viewer)

[bassqueen16]

Hi I'm having a 40s themed 18th next month and i was wondering if anyone knew good vintage shops/websites or anything to help me out, i wanna be the belle of the ball If anyone can help out or if anyones been to a 40s party and has fotos or whatever id be greatly appreciated, cheers!
Sofie

 

[55078]

These two websites have really good vintage stuff, but it's generally quite pricey and they're US-based anyway.

http://www.antiquedress.com/
http://www.vintagetextile.com/

But, nevertheless, you could get a dressmaker to copy a design if you really are so desperate to look awesome. Otherwise, you could try and search ebay or a textiles shop like Lincraft for a suitable pattern and then make it yourself or get someone to make it for you. Or you could just scrounge around in op-shops to see if there's anything good. I think there are some good ones in the city, and there are a few on Military Rd too.

 

[glitterfairy]

Huge tip: http://www.costumes.org/history/100pages/1940links.htm

What to look for: Emphasis on small hips/waist and broader shoulders, often short sleeves, slightly sharper cut than in 30s (because they were trying to save fabric, hence no trains). Dresses not cut on bias.

Sometimes cool asymetrical details, NOT big puffy skirts like in 50s, however may be godets or pleats. Halters were popular.

Trying to find more pictures, but here are some links to pictures of Rita Hayworth:
http://claudia79.tripod.com/pictures/purple.jpg
http://claudia79.tripod.com/images/dresswfurs.jpg
http://claudia79.tripod.com/images/twirlchair.jpg
http://claudia79.tripod.com/picture/ritaheels.jpg
http://claudia79.tripod.com/rp/statuesque.jpg
http://claudia79.tripod.com/rhpix/bejeweled.jpg
http://claudia7.tripod.com/images5/perfect.jpg


There is also a Cue dress out that is very 40s style - it's the dark grey one with short sleeves and a flower near neckline.

 

[bassqueen16]

ahh thanks! i was thinking about going to newtown, does anyone know of any good shops to try??