16 women’s DIY 1940s Costume Ideas
Shop for affordable women’s 1940s costumes for Halloween, theater, swing dances and more. There are many costumes from the WWII years, including a pin up girl/ singer, nurse, Rosie the Riveter, Land Girl, and sailor or volunteer military uniform. These real life women inspired many comic book characters and superheroes such as Wonder Woman and Agent Peggy Carter. They also inspired the classic Disney musical, The Sound of Music, and a host of animated features: Cinderella, Snow White, Wizard of Oz (Dorothy, Wicked Witch, Glenda the Good Witch) and my favorite: Who Framed Roger Rabbit (Jessica Rabbit’s sexy red dress. Need I say more?) Other timeless movies include A League of Their Own, The Notebook, and Casablanca.
Most of these costumes are under $100, so you can find something in your budget. For realistic ’40s DIY costumes, try one of these. Shop quality 1940s inspired clothing, 1940s shoes, and accessories for even more options.
Samantha says
Hi Debbie and Oscar, I love your site! And you both look fabulous. This page on Vintage 1940s fashion history was such a help with my daughter’s wartime costume for an upcoming dance festival. Thank you so much for sharing this useful and inspiring information. We’re enjoying browsing your posts. Samantha.
Debbie Sessions says
Thank you for the kind comment. I am so glad you were able to create a good costume. Enjoy!