Womens Suit Styles Through The Midcentury

Women's fashion has always been a reflection of the times, and the evolution of suit styles for women in the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s is no exception. Let's take a closer look at how women's suits changed over these three iconic decades.

1940s: The War Era

During the 1940s, World War II had a significant impact on fashion. Women's suits became more practical and utilitarian, reflecting the need for functionality during wartime. Suits were often made from durable fabrics like wool and featured tailored silhouettes with padded shoulders. Skirts were typically knee-length, and blouses were modest with high necklines.

For Revival, this is the decade our customers favour so this is the one we focus on for our Socialite collection. Our first replica suit was named Victory and we have developed several new styles since. Some of the significant features you will recognise are broad lightly padded shoulders, fabric-covered buttons, Sleeve darts,  feature collars, and pocket detailing. Hip skimming longer longer-length jackets were favoured. They were mostly accompanied by an A-line flared or inverted pleat skirt with a narrow waistband, metal side zip and single button. Skirts were often unlined as a full-length petticoat would usually have been worn underneath whereas the jackets tend to have a crepe or Rayon lining.

1950s: The Golden Age Of Glamour

In the 1950s, women's suit styles underwent a dramatic transformation. The post-war era brought a sense of optimism and prosperity, leading to a more feminine and glamorous aesthetic. Suits became more fitted and tailored, emphasising the hourglass figure. Pastel colours, floral prints, and delicate details like bows and ruffles became popular. Skirts were fuller reflected in Christian Dior's 'New Look' or straight and long as restrictions on fabric use were lifted.  

The Socialite 1950s Freedom suit in powder blue linen has dolman sleeves and pretty bow detail to the sleeve cuffs and back. We know it's authentic as we copied to the letter a fifties grey wool suit.

1960s: The Swinging Sixties

The 1960s marked a period of social and cultural revolution, and women's fashion reflected the changing times. Suits in the 1960s were sleek, and modernistic, often featuring bold patterns and bright colours. The silhouette was more androgynous with shorter hemlines and boxy jackets. Women's suits became a symbol of empowerment and independence, breaking away from traditional gender norms.

Revival Vintage are yet to produce a sixties-inspired two-piece, but we regularly have original examples as part of our true vintage offering.

From the practicality of the 1940s to the glamour of the 1950s and the boldness of the 1960s, women's suit styles have evolved significantly over the decades, mirroring the shifting cultural landscape. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of the 1950s or the avant-garde flair of the 1960s, there's a women's suit style for every taste and personality.