Atomic fashion refers to style in the 1940s, around the time that women were dressing in outfits that were more suitable for function, rather than fashion. However, the necessity to find a functional outfit did not override the need to appear feminine and desirable. Styles today refer to the outfits as pinup-style or rockabilly, which means there are a few ways you can include atomic clothing in your daily wardrobe, balancing with the trends of today.
Functional, Yet Fashionable Shoes
During the 1940s, the war caused rubber soles to be in short supply for shoes, so designers had to become creative. Around this time, wooden pumps and wedges became an essential part to every single girl’s or housewife’s wardrobe. Both of these types of shoes are available in shoe stores today, symbolizing a time in history where women still desired to look attractive, even in the midst of war.
The Right Red Lipstick
Bold makeup was the key to fitting the 1940s time period, since the rise in popularity for noir films. Even with plain clothing, makeup gave women the ability to maintain their feminine look. To achieve the 1940s-style makeup, choose a matte lipstick that is bright and bold, like coral pink or fire-engine red. Typically, women of that time would also match their lipstick to their nail color.
Style Your Hair
In spite of the rationing of textile during the time, women used their hair in the same way they used makeup, maintaining their alluring look at all times. Most women kept their hair long, since short hair must be styled every day and could not be tied back. Hats were very popular at that time, protecting the woman’s hairstyle in windy or rainy weather. Try to curl your hair and pair it with a wide-brimmed hat to imitate the look.
The Right Attitude
Women of the 1940s were resourceful, placing a high amount of importance on the ability to look beautiful in the midst of war, as their husbands and sons were shipped off to fight for their country. Society placed high importance on a woman’s ability to maintain the household and cater to her husband every whim, so there was no excuse to look anything but picture perfect when he walked through the door. However, women of this day and age finally get the credit they deserve for all they do, focusing the energy and time on looking beautiful for themselves, as well as their significant other.
Tatyana is an online clothing store, in which consumers can select from a variety of atomic clothing, shoes, dresses, and other options. Clothing is available for women, men, and children.
