Throughout much of the 1940's, fashion fell to the background as the world went to war. Due to the war, European fashion was no longer available in the United States and as a result, American designers, previously overlooked, became more famous and widely known. Although it was a dark times, fashion managed to trudge through into the light with bright colors and new trends.
Because of the war, shoes became both expensive and difficult to buy. They became simple, sturdy, and affordable, as well as practical for every day use. There were four major styles throughout the decade:
- Mary Jane - low chunky heel with one strap
- Oxfords - these started their rise to popularity in the 1940's, although they are better known in the 50's
- Wedgies - added height without a heel with cork soles
- Peep Toes - at the end of the decade, shoes left their conservativity behind and heels grew taller, and were often referred to as pumps
The 1940's exhibited a drastic change in woman's swimwear--this was the decade the one piece bathing suit split into the two piece bikini. Midriff exposure was slow, exposing maybe an inch a year as the two components that made up the bathing suit got further and further apart. The bikini--the tiny bikini--was officially unveiled in 1946 by Louis Reard. The transition was made more accepted as Hollywood stars such as Betty Grable, Lana Turner, and Rita Hayworth joined, showing off their stomachs.