Ask Fashion Girl

Dear Fashion Girl,

Dear Fashion Girl,

I love old-fashioned styles from the 1930's and 40's. My closet is full of these clothes but I don't know what kinds of shoes and accessories were in during this time. Can you tell me what to look for that will complete my vintage wardrobe?

Thanks, Brigitte

Dear Brigitte,

Good for you for going vintage! The 1930s and 1940s, especially, were wonderful decades in fashion history. Vintage clothes are full of character and so much fun to shop for. Many vintage items are crafted with artistry, charm, and workmanship that you just don’t see in today’s manufactured clothing. Vintage is hot all over again and being worn by some of the world’s most glamorous women! Here is a list of items that were popular in the '30s and '40s to give your outfits complete authenticity. I found this information in several fashion history books, which are a great resource for vintage connoisseurs such as yourself. Vintage clothing stores, antique shops, flea markets, swap meets, estate sales, and even eBay.com are good places to hunt down vintage shoes and accessories.

Handbags: Clutch bags in sleek, refined designs and envelope-shaped clutch bags. In the '30s, bags on frames with straps and pouch-shaped. In the '40s, shoulder bags with straps. Fur accents: You can’t go wrong with fur trim or stoles, real or faux. Hats are a nice throw-back to these eras: Sailor’s hats, berets, small bonnets, and pillboxes were popular styles. Usually hats were worn tipped at an angle, either to one side, front, or back. Jewelry: Hit estate sales for costume jewelry! Short pearl necklaces were worn with day dresses and tailored suits. Wear brooches and jeweled clips in pairs at the neckline or on collars. Large earrings became popular in the '40s, especially rhinestones. In the '30s, women often wore long evening gloves that coordinated with the evening dress. Belts: As the waist reappeared as the fashion focus after the '20s, belts returned. Look for belts featuring decorative clasps or buckles in jeweled metal or sleek plastic. Shoes: Two-toned shoes, open peep-toes, strappy, high-heeled sandals (especially with glamorous evening gowns), and sling-back shoes. Many people are surprised to find out that platform-soled shoes were a big hit way back in the '30s! Carmen Miranda helped to popularize platform soles. Stockings were in flesh tones with a seam up the back. Due to the shortages of fabric during WWII, women even painted their legs with leg makeup to simulate the color of stockings and drew seams down the back of their legs!

Have fun shopping!

Sincerely, Fashion Girl