One might expect that fashion and the changing of trends came to a halt during the Second World War. This could not be less true. While there were rations on clothing and fabric shortages, the fashion industry continued to innovate. World War Two created both quick fads and long-lasting trends, both of which were impacted by the tumultuous times they were created in. With factories putting all their effort into creating weapons and goods for the war, few clothes were being created, and fabrics were rationed. In response to this, dress-lengths were shortened, and clothing-patterns were printed in magazines, encouraging women to sew their own clothing- and to use old fabrics and clothes to make new outfits. Two-piece bathing suits, which saved a little fabric, came into style.  

Along with these still relevant styles came the introduction of many microtrends. Due to blackouts (used in England to make it more difficult for German bombers to find their targets), it was difficult for people to be seen at night. Retailers introduced glow-in-the-dark buttons, broaches, and pins so citizens would be visible to cars. Of course, the Germans continued to bomb England, and so the English were instructed to carry a gas mask with them at all times. Designers created bags with a specific pocket for a gas mask, visible from its outside so the wearer could advertise that they were staying safe. With the oceans filled with submarines and the skies wrought with planes, it was difficult for the British to obtain precious metals. Instead, Jewelry was made from unique, cheaper, materials. One such accessory was a plastic bracelet supposedly made from the windscreen of German plane. 

Post-war, citizens were in a fashion withdrawal. Elaborate, tight waisted clothing came into style- the complete opposite of anything seen during the twenties or thirties. Fortunately, the materials used to make elaborate hats (netting, decorative flowers, feathers, ribbon) were not used in the war effort, and as such were not rationed. Women began to wear beautifully decorated hats to add excitement to their ensemble, and soon a stylish hat was a requirement when it came to putting together an outfit. 

During the war, France had been occupied by Germany, and many of Paris’ top designers had been sent to Berlin, which the Nazis had planned to make the Western world’s new fashion capital. France had not seen any new trends in years, and they were eager to become the centre of fashion again. To many, new styles would feel like a sign that they were recovering from the war, and that things were returning to normal. Unfortunately, there was still a fabric shortage, and the majority of Parisians could not afford designer clothes. Still, the people of Paris desperately wanted to see some new looks, and to become known for their fashion once again.  

The fashion designers of Paris came up with a solution- if there was not enough fabric to make clothing, why not just make the clothes smaller? Before catalogues were created, dolls dressed in miniature versions of designer outfits had been a popular way to advertise new trends. It was the perfect way to make Paris the trendsetter once again. The most famous designers, jewelers, and hair stylists of the time worked together to create the Théâtre de la Mode, a collection of wire dolls wearing the newest couture styles. In just a few weeks, 100 000 citizens had visited the exhibition, and its popularity did not stop there. The exhibit would later go on to travel the world. The Théâtre de la Mode recentered Paris as the fashion capital and became a story of hope and resilience for the French population.