1940s fashion

Despite the shortage of clothes, shoes and make-up during the War, women did not forget their femininity. Many felt that they had to make an extra effort for when their menfolk returned from the fighting. Women developed ingenious ways of making the best of rations, and the beauty industry saw a sharp rise in business.

Re-creating the home front is becoming increasingly fashionable among today's young women, but the general female shape has changed completely since 1945 so finding authentic Forties fashion that fits can be difficult. Amongst the many stalls at the show, you will find dozens that sell original 1940's clothes for women, from uniforms to ball gowns.

The Second World War was an important time for Britain's women. With propaganda slogans like 'Women of Britain Come into the Factories' and organisations such as the ATS and Women's Land Army, they found themselves less confined to the roles of home-maker and housewife and more able to get out into the workplace, contribute to the war effort and make their presence felt in society.

This year the War and Peace team have pulled out all the stops to bring you a very special 1940's Fashion Show which brings together theatre, music, dance and fashion to tell the story of life on the Home Front through the clothing we wore. Depending on the weather conditions, they will take place either in the enlarged Miller Marquee or in the adjacent new Miller Outdoor Arena. For performance times, please refer to this year's Arena Events, or see the Programme of Events for the Miller Marquee and Arena published in the show programme. The fashions on display will all be original items from the 1930's or 1940's complemented by genuine accessories, jewellery, handbags and shoes from the period. Authentic makeup and hairstyles will complete the picture to give a nostalgic look back to a period when the glamour of Hollywood clashed with the harsh reality of living under wartime conditions.
	Many of the items on show are for sale from one of the traders hosting the event but not, of course until Sunday. However, they can be reserved in advance. Please remember that all the clothing shown and offered for sale by these traders is a genuine original from the period and are, therefore, exclusives. They may not have the particular item you want immediately available in your size but they will do everything they can to give you that authentic period look. They will gladly give you advice on matching accessories, hairstyles and makeup and give you details of places and events where your new look won't be out of place.

	Despite the shortage of clothes, shoes and make-up during the War, women did not forget their femininity. Many felt that they had to make an extra effort for when their menfolk returned from the fighting. Women developed ingenious ways of making the best of rations, and the beauty industry saw a sharp rise in business.  Click here for more information and to see adverts of the era.
	Re-creating the home front is becoming increasingly fashionable among today's young women, but the general female shape has changed completely since 1945 so finding authentic Forties fashion that fits can be difficult. Amongst the many stalls at the show, you will find dozens that sell original 1940's clothes for women, from uniforms to ball gowns.
The Second World War was an important time for Britain's women. With propaganda slogans like 'Women of Britain Come into the Factories' and organisations such as the ATS and Women's Land Army, they found themselves less confined to the roles of home-maker and housewife and more able to get out into the workplace, contribute to the war effort and make their presence felt in society.

The Hop Farm's very own "Blue Crew" will put on an entertaining show of popular song and dance numbers from the war years. Add to this a full programme of other events including bands, dance lessons, the World War Two Display Team, an inter-cadet competition and our representation of the famous "Stage Door Canteen", the Miller Marquee offers a whole feast of family fun and entertainment.

All 1940s fashion events will be held in the Miller Marquee.

Find out more about 1940s beauty.