A great year in clothing

Quick, when was this photo taken?


If at first glance you thought 1970s, I'm right there with you. The actual date is 1939, it's a slip dress designed by Charles Armour. The dress was made of gingham, and worn with an organdy jacket.

The photo, found in New York Fashion: The Evolution of American Style, sent me looking for clothing from 1939, especially evening dresses of daywear fabrics like cotton and wool, or daywear prints like stripes and plaids.

Further inspiration:

Lisa Fonssagrives on the Eiffel Tower by Erwin Blumenfeld, 1939, found online at with a cherry on top

This magnificent 1930s striped dress can be found at Sheila Cook Textiles


I love this cotton 30s lace gown found at Poppy's Vintage Clothing


You could make your own from a 1939 reproduction pattern found at Eva Dress:


and maybe a vintage inspired plaid


There is so much more to love about the year 1939 in clothing, from trouser dressing to surrealism, and I hope to explore the year more in future posts.