As a society, we tend to think of the 1930s as a forlorn decade. The Great Depression inflicted destitution, distress, and despair upon millions. There was one place, however, that people could go to escape from this harsh reality: the movies. Big musical numbers, handsome leading men, and gorgeous starlets all brought the citizens of…
Every October 31st, millions of people leave their ordinary, day-to-day clothes hanging in their closets and instead, don costumes. Only on this day is it acceptable to wear outrageously fun and spooky clothes out and about. We call this celebration Halloween and many of us look forward to a night where we can forget ourselves…
The film Letty Lynton (1932) would probably be more or less forgotten today were it not for the white organdy (or oragandie) gown worn by the star of the film, Joan Crawford. The film itself got decent reviews but it was the gown that is remembered today. Created by MGM's head costume designer Adrian, the…
The Latin American craze in fashion was popular in the 1930s and 1940s. This began when president FDR started the "Good Neighbor Policy" with his 1933 inaugural address. This policy would create new trade between South and North America. The United States also wanted to make sure that we had allies below us in case…
The first shoulder pads in women's fashion were seen in the 1930s. The 1930s is an interesting time in the worlds history. The Great Depression saw millionaires loose everything, talking pictures brought hoards of people into movie theaters, and fascism was taking over Europe. Sportswear began becoming acceptable day wear clothing. Evening wear was cut…
Fashion's Flashback 