In the 1940s, fashion was greatly dictated by the events of World War II. The German invasion of Poland in September 1939 created the tone for everything that would follow in the next decade. Fashion design and clothing styles changed with fabrics being rationed in order to supply the war efforts. Also, with nylon and wool being needed by the military, rayon became the material most used for the creation of women’s clothing.
WWII Fashion Restrictions:
Jackets: No more than 25 inches in length
Pants: No more than 19 inches in circumference at the hem
Hemlines: Rose to knee length in order to conserve fabric.
Belts: No more than two inches wide.
Heels: No more than one inch in height.