What dresses were popular in the 1940s?

A number of dresses were popular during the 1940s. Many women wore short-waist dresses with button necks, collars, fitted waists and full skirts. The classic A-lines with knee-length hems in red, white and blue colors were also a trend. Shop a collection of vintage dresses on 1stDibs.

What is a 1940s style dress?

The most popular 1940s-style dress was the shirtwaist dress. It had a front opening like a men’s shirt, but with large buttons in the front of the dress, which was practical and easy to wear. The sleeves were short and necklines varied from shirt style to sweetheart and other necklines. Antique and vintage dresses from well-known designers are available on 1stDibs.

What did Ladies Wear in the 1940s?

In the 1940s, ladies wore clothes defined by clean and slim silhouettes. The jackets, blouses and sweaters often featured shoulderpads and had somewhat of a military feel. Most dresses were quite casual and pants and playsuits became part of a woman's everyday style.

What dresses were popular in the 90s?

Many different styles of dress were popular in the 1990s, including the slip dress which became very common by the middle of the decade. Tastes and styles varied between regions and among people. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of vintage 1990s dresses from some of the world’s top boutiques.

What were the dresses in the 20s called?

In the 1920s, the flapper dress became a fresh new look for both day and evening wear. This shift dress hung from shoulder to just below the knee with a significant drop waistline. The evening versions of these dresses often featured lace, fringe, beadwork and luxe fabrics like chiffon, velvet and taffeta. Shop a collection of expertly vetted vintage flapper dresses from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.

How can I tell if a dress is from the 1960s or 1970s?

To tell if a dress is from the 1960s or 1970s, first look for a label. You may be able to determine the approximate date of the dress simply by researching the designer using reputable online sources. Also, check the zippers. Dresses from the 1960s will usually have metal or nylon zippers. Ones from the 1970s are more likely to be plastic. You'll find a large selection of vintage dresses on 1stDibs.

How did people dress in the 1990s?

In the 1990s, people dressed in different ways. Styles included grunge, modern preppy, hip-hop and goth. Some trends of the decade were slip dresses, plaid flannel shirts, long plaid skirts, overalls, combat boots and loose-fitting rolled jeans. Neon colors were popular for a time, as were fabric headbands and fabric-covered ponytail holders. Shop a selection of 90s vintage apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.

How should I dress for a ’70s party?

There are a few options for how you should dress for a ’70s party. You can go for the hippie look with dramatic bell-bottoms, fringed jackets and vests and embroidered blouses, or try a sporty look by pairing a vintage tee with high-waisted, button-fly flared jeans and clogs or platform shoes. For a straight-from-the-disco aesthetic, look for surplice and halter dresses decked out in sequins. Men can make a 1970s-inspired statement with a leisure suit or bell-bottoms matched with a turtleneck. Aviator sunglasses are great accessories for both men and women. On 1stDibs, explore a selection of 1970s apparel and accessories.

What are 1920s dresses called?

The iconic dresses from the 1920s are called flapper dresses. This name comes from the term flapper, which was used to describe young women during the period who enjoyed personal fulfillment and independence in American cities, particularly as they gained the right to vote and enjoy other freedoms previously reserved for men. Flappers danced at jazz clubs and upended most societal restrictions placed on women at the time, and fashion statements typically attributed to flappers included short “bob” haircuts, higher hemlines and other then-audacious style choices. Find a selection of flapper dresses on 1stDibs.

What dresses did they wear in the 1960s?

The dresses they wore in the 1960s varied depending on the time of day and the occasion. For everyday wear, many women opted for simply tailored frocks called shift dresses. They often featured bold geometric prints in eye-catching colors. In the evening, women tended to opt for gowns with plunging necklines, fitted waists and flowing full skirts. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of vintage dresses from the 1960s.

What dress was popular in the 1980s?

One of the most popular types of dresses during the 1980s was a tight-fitting sheath with oversized shoulder pads. Peplum accents were also common as were large puffy sleeves. On 1stDibs, find a collection of 1980s vintage dresses on 1stDibs.

How can you tell if a dress is vintage?

To tell if a dress is vintage, look at the labels inside. By researching the maker and looking at images of the brand's other designs, you may be able to estimate the age of your dress. The label may even have a date printed on it. Generally, clothing must be at least 20 years old to qualify as vintage. If you need assistance dating your clothing, a knowledgeable expert, such as an appraiser or vintage clothing reseller, can help. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of vintage dresses.

What are 50s style dresses called?

1950s-style dresses are often called poodle skirt dresses. The dress is generally a fit-and-flare shape with a wide swing skirt. Another popular type of dress is the form-fitting sheath, also known as a pencil dress.

What color were flapper dresses in the 1920s?

Flapper dresses from the 1920s came in a range of colors, although darker hues such as black and navy were immensely popular. Flapper dresses were cut with straight and slim silhouettes, were typically knee-length and had a lower neckline. They were often made from silk chiffon and featured beaded details. You’ll find a selection of 1920s flapper dresses from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What was the dress style in the 1960s called?

What the dress style was called in the 1960s varied, as there were several types of dresses that were fashionable during the decade. At the start of the 1960s, many women wore swing dresses featuring fitted bodices and full skirts. Collared, button-up belted dresses called shirtwaist dresses were also popular, as were loose-fitting, flowy shift dresses. By the late 1960s, new styles emerged, such as flared, flowing tent dresses, sleeveless jumpers usually styled over sweaters and blouses and drop-waist dresses, which had their waist seams at the hips rather than the natural waist. Find a variety of 1960s dresses and other vintage dresses on 1stDibs.

Which designer was called the Mother of American Fashion in the 1940s?

Claire McCardell was the designer often called the Mother of American Fashion in the 1940s. An American designer, she helped introduce women's sportswear to the United States and was particularly well-known for her bias-cut, loose-fitting Monastic dress. When World War II broke out in the 1940s, she designed pieces out of readily available materials like denim, calico and wool jersey, introducing new fabrics for women's clothing that would remain popular well after the close of the war. Many people point to McCardell as one of the first successful American fashion designers. Shop a collection of Claire McCardell apparel on 1stDibs.

How can you tell how old a vintage dress is?

To tell how old a vintage dress is, use trusted online resources to conduct research. Start by searching for labels that identify the maker. Then, consult online information and images to determine when the brand produced pieces similar to yours. If you run into any problems or would like assistance, consult a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of vintage dresses.

What did wedding dresses look like in the 1900s?

In the 1900s, wedding dresses typically looked like full, floor-length garments. Brides wore S-shaped corsets below the usually ruffled bodices, and most designs included large puff sleeves. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of vintage wedding dresses from some of the world's top boutiques.

How old does a wedding dress have to be to be considered vintage?

To be considered vintage, a wedding dress has to be at least 20 years old. Many brides opt for vintage wedding dresses due to their timeless style and unique details. Shop a range of vintage and designer wedding dresses from some of the world's top boutiques on 1stDibs.

Which designer became famous with her wrap dresses in the 1970s?

The designer who became famous with her wrap dresses in the 1970s is Diane von Furstenberg. She debuted her first example in 1974. When creating the Wrap dress, von Furstenberg drew inspiration from the skirts worn by ballerinas. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the now-iconic dress, an exhibit called Diane von Furstenberg: Journey of a Dress was held at museums in the United States and abroad. On 1stDibs, explore a range of Diane von Furstenberg apparel and accessories.

Vintage Dresses 1940S

Taffeta Dress

The End Of The Trail

1940S Black Crepe Dress

Rayon Shirt

Vintage Novelty Print Dress

Gold And Black Sequin Dress

Peplum Dress

1949 Gown

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Platinum

1940s French 1.66 Carat Sapphire and 1.60 Carat Diamond Platinum Cluster Ring

$9,432

1945 Patek Philippe Vintage Ladies Handwound Ref. 1289 Dress Watch - 18K Gold

By Patek Philippe

Located in Suwanee, GA

- Classic Design - 1 Year Warranty Today’s offering showcases this elegant and classicly styled 1940's

Category

1940s Swiss Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

18k Gold

1945 Patek Philippe Vintage Ladies Handwound Ref. 1289 Dress Watch - 18K Gold

$4,995

0.45Ct Diamond, 14k Yellow and 14k White Gold Dress Ring - Vintage Circa 1940

Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne

yellow gold ring shank. This impressive 1940's dress ring is supplied with an independent diamond

Category

1940s Unknown Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

0.45Ct Diamond, 14k Yellow and 14k White Gold Dress Ring - Vintage Circa 1940

$1,583

Rolex Yellow Gold Square “Ciccolatone” Automatic Wristwatch

By Rolex

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

An important Rolex dress watch from the 1940s in 18k yellow gold. The case measures 31mm wide

Category

1940s Swiss Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

18k Gold

Rolex Yellow Gold Square “Ciccolatone” Automatic Wristwatch

Vintage Emerald and Diamond White Gold Cocktail Ring, circa 1940

Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne

). This vintage 1940s dress ring is supplied with an independent diamond grading report card. Condition

Category

1940s Unknown Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

Vintage Emerald and Diamond White Gold Cocktail Ring, circa 1940

$3,410

Art Deco Yellow Gold and Ruby 5-Piece Set

Located in Lexington, KY

This is a stellar 1940s Deco formal dress set composed of 14K yellow gold that features dazzling

Category

1940s Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

Ceil Chapman Matador Style Black Silk Dress, 1940s

$1,495

Vintage Original Franklin Fashions Chicago Rayon Print Day Dress 1940s

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Vintage, Original Franklin Fashions Chicago, rayon print day dress from the 1940s. The print of

Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

Vintage Original Franklin Fashions Chicago Rayon Print Day Dress 1940s

$350

Nicholas Ungar Button-Down Slate Light Wool Trumpet Hem Jersey Dress, 1940s

By Nicholas Ungar

Located in Gresham, OR

A beautiful and subtle 1940s Nicholas Ungar mid-calf length day dress in slate grey lightweight

Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

Nicholas Ungar Button-Down Slate Light Wool Trumpet Hem Jersey Dress, 1940s

$1,800

Royal Dux Hand Painted Porcelain Figurine, Woman in Light Green Dress, 1940s

Located in København, Copenhagen

Royal Dux hand painted porcelain figurine. Woman in light green dress with skirt. Czech Republic

Category

1940s Czech Rococo Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Porcelain

1940s French Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940 s Manguin Cream Dress with Pleated Skirt and Bow Detail

$995

1940 s Beige and Floral Shirtwaist Dress with Belt

Located in Toronto, Ontario

Beige rayon shirtwaist dress from the 1940's. The dress has an all over delicate print of green

Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940 s Beige and Floral Shirtwaist Dress with Belt

$350

Vintage 1940s Summer Dress

Located in London, GB

A pretty dress from the 1940s in pastel colours. The dress has a button opening at the back and

Category

1940s Unknown Vintage Dresses 1940S

Vintage 1940s Summer Dress

$248

1940s Gold Lamé Dress

Located in San Francisco, CA

1940s Gold Lamé Dress. Black braid trim on collar and hips and adorable tassel detail on boat neck

Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Gold Lamé Dress

$235

1940s Floral Crepe Peplum Maxi Dress

Located in London, GB

A floral maxi dress, done with that distinct 1940s elegance and would work well for both day and

Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Floral Crepe Peplum Maxi Dress

$745

1940s Crepe Paisley Print Dress

Located in London, GB

A rare find, this beautiful paisley print dress from the 1940’s features three gorgeous beaded

Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Crepe Paisley Print Dress

$445

1940 s Emerald Green Gray Wool Knit Dress With Micro Pleating Scarf

Located in Atlanta, GA

This versatile emerald green and gray wool knit dress by Debby of California has lovely details

Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940 s Emerald Green Gray Wool Knit Dress With Micro Pleating Scarf

$150

1940s Grey Floral Print Dress

Located in London, GB

Lovely and quintessentially 1940s rayon day dress with multi-coloured floral print on a grey

Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Grey Floral Print Dress

$445

1940s Peach Printed Crepe Dress

Located in London, GB

A unique and very rare design, this pale peach crepe dress features a large paisley print in grey

Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Peach Printed Crepe Dress

$440

1940 s Pink Pencil Shaving Print Jersey Dress With Wrap Skirt

Located in New York, NY

1940's Pink Pencil Shaving Print Jersey Dress With Wrap Skirt

Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940 s Pink Pencil Shaving Print Jersey Dress With Wrap Skirt

$688

1940s Crepe Dress with Farm Scenes

Located in London, GB

A really fun but still elegant 1940s crepe day dress with an unusual novelty farm scene print in

Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Crepe Dress with Farm Scenes

$375

1940s Black Femme Fatale Draped Dress

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Beautifully draped black dress. Deep v surplice neckline. Long sleeves. Long draped fabric at the

Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Black Femme Fatale Draped Dress

$410

Couture c. 1940’s Black Multicolor Floral Glass Bead Embroidered Shift Dress

Located in Thiensville, WI

Couture c. 1940’s Black Multicolor Floral Glass Bead Embroidered Shift Dress Circa: 1940’s Style

Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

Couture c. 1940’s Black Multicolor Floral Glass Bead Embroidered Shift Dress

$296

1940 s Black Crepe Evening Dress with Beaded Butterfly Motif

Located in New Hope, PA

Classic and elegant, this 1940's evening gown has cap sleeves, a self tie at the neckline, a fitted

Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940 s Black Crepe Evening Dress with Beaded Butterfly Motif

$850

1940s Franklin Fashion Designer Sheer Back Dress

Located in Water Mill, NY

A fabulous black 1940s dress from notable fashion shop of it's time Franklin's with a black sheer

Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Franklin Fashion Designer Sheer Back Dress

$775

Nettie Rosenstein 1940 s Black Crepe Evening Dress with Bow Back

By Nettie Rosenstein

Located in San Francisco, CA

Late 1940's dress from American designer Nettie Rosenstein in black crepe. Pleating at bust, black

Category

1940s Unknown Vintage Dresses 1940S

Nettie Rosenstein 1940 s Black Crepe Evening Dress with Bow Back

$395

1940s Vintage Blue White Hand Crochet Dress + Belt

Located in Sparks, NV

Gorgeous vintage 1940s hand crocheted dress and matching belt with pockets and buttons. Details

Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Vintage Blue White Hand Crochet Dress + Belt

$595

1940s Vintage Black Dress with Celery Green Sash

Located in Sparks, NV

Vintage 1940s dress with darling puff sleeves and a celery green sash. Details: Unlined Side

Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Vintage Black Dress with Celery Green Sash

$225

1940S Black Silk Bias Net Dress

Located in New York, NY

1940S Black Silk Bias & Net Dress

Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940S Black Silk Bias Net Dress

$988

1940S Tropical Printed Rayon Cheongsam Dress

Located in New York, NY

1940S Tropical Printed Rayon Cheongsam Dress

Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940S Tropical Printed Rayon Cheongsam Dress

$388

GEORGIANA c.1940 s Navy Blue Rayon Crepe Floral Seashell Print Peplum Day Dress

Located in Thiensville, WI

Vintage Georgiana c.1940's Navy blue peplum day dress. Multicolor pastel floral and seashell print

Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

GEORGIANA c.1940 s Navy Blue Rayon Crepe Floral Seashell Print Peplum Day Dress

$1,254

OOAK Vtg 1930 s - 1940 s Black Feather Trim Evening Ballroom Dance Dress Gown XS

Located in Thiensville, WI

One-of-a-Kind circa 1930's / 1940's deep ivory fine net / mesh evening gown. Black feather trim at

Category

1930s Vintage Dresses 1940S

OOAK Vtg 1930 s - 1940 s Black Feather Trim Evening Ballroom Dance Dress Gown XS

$1,494

1940 s Ivory Satin Draped Wedding Dress With Bustle Train

Located in Atlanta, GA

generations of stylish women ... first in the 1940's and years later in the 1980's ... a true heirloom beauty

Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940 s Ivory Satin Draped Wedding Dress With Bustle Train

$550

1940s Romantic Gothic Black Maxi Dress

Located in Water Mill, NY

A gorgeous black silk 1940's maxi dress with an interesting interplay of demure and sexy. It has a

Category

1940s Unknown Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Romantic Gothic Black Maxi Dress

$1,200

1940 s Romantic Gothic Black Maxi

Located in Water Mill, NY

A gorgeous black silk 1940's maxi dress with lovely long lines. It is an interesting interplay of

Category

1940s Unknown Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940 s Romantic Gothic Black Maxi

$1,200

1920s-1940s Sheer Cotton Floral Embroidered Boho Folk Dress

Located in New York, NY

1920s-1940s Sheer Cotton Floral Embroidered Boho Folk Dress

Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1920s-1940s Sheer Cotton Floral Embroidered Boho Folk Dress

$750

Vintage 1940s Red Polka Dot Dress with Frill Trim

Located in London, GB

A pretty polka dot dress from the 1940s. The dress has a white collar, short sleeves , threee

Category

1940s Unknown Vintage Dresses 1940S

Vintage 1940s Red Polka Dot Dress with Frill Trim

$337

Vintage 1940s Ivory Crepe Dress

Located in London, GB

A chic vintage crepe dress dating from the 1940s. The dress has a v neckline , short sleaves and

Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

Vintage 1940s Ivory Crepe Dress

$378

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Vintage Dresses 1940S For Sale on 1stDibs

On 1stDibs, there are many options to choose from in our collection of vintage dresses 1940s. For vintage dresses 1940s, Black is a pretty popular color, but we also have Beige, Gray, Brown and more in stock now. Making the right choice when shopping for these accessories may mean looking at versions that date from different eras — you can find early iterations from the 20th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 20th Century, all of which have proven very popular over the years. Vintage dresses 1940s such as these have likely been a part of the legacy of many fashion designers, but those produced by Adrian, Gilbert Adrian and Claire McCardell are consistently popular. Finding accessories for sale for women should be easy, but there are 18 pieces available to browse for men as well as unisex, too.

How Much are Vintage Dresses 1940S?

Prices for vintage dresses 1940s can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $95 and can go as high as $225,050, while these items, on average, fetch $710.

Finding the Right Clothing for You

Start building your collection of covetable and iconic vintage clothing today — no matter where you roam, there is a curated selection of designer dresses and gowns, sweaters, shirts, dazzling shoes and more on 1stDibs that will keep you covered in the hottest styles from head to toe.

From elegant museum-worthy vintage Chanel dresses and jackets to audacious T-shirts and trousers from provocative punk designer Vivienne Westwood, one thing is abundantly clear: If the clothing for sale on 1stDibs could talk, it would certainly make a statement.

For fashion lovers, the 1990s have become associated with styles adopted by today’s supermodels and influencers — think John Galliano and Roberto Cavalli — but maybe ‘80s accessories are among your (guilty?) pleasures.

Playful, boldly colored coats and outerwear from Moschino, Ralph Lauren and other titans of the era can take a simpler ensemble to the next level, while chic and practical suits from the likes of Christian Dior and Balmain endure for haute couture advocates and beyond.

And vintage is the name of the game on today’s red carpets, too. Celebrity stylists are turning to archival pieces created by the likes of Bob Mackie, Thierry Mugler and Jean-Paul Gaultier as alternatives to new gowns plucked straight off the runway. Wearing such sought-after items gives celebrities instant allure and suggests a personal style that’s not only achingly glamorous but intellectually informed and influenced by a love of craftsmanship.

Those seeking contemporary luxury looks and in-demand street-style fits can indulge in designs by Bottega Veneta, Miu Miu and Loro Piana, while pieces from Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent and Versace endure as examples of fashion’s most covetable goods.

The future — and glamorous past — of fashion is yours for the wearing. Find vintage clothing and accessories for sale on 1stDibs, including designs by Balenciaga, Valentino, Celine, Loewe and more.

Questions About Vintage Dresses 1940S

What dresses were popular in the 1940s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A number of dresses were popular during the 1940s. Many women wore short-waist dresses with button necks, collars, fitted waists and full skirts. The classic A-lines with knee-length hems in red, white and blue colors were also a trend. Shop a collection of vintage dresses on 1stDibs.
What is a 1940s style dress?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 5, 2021
The most popular 1940s-style dress was the shirtwaist dress. It had a front opening like a men’s shirt, but with large buttons in the front of the dress, which was practical and easy to wear. The sleeves were short and necklines varied from shirt style to sweetheart and other necklines. Antique and vintage dresses from well-known designers are available on 1stDibs.
What did Ladies Wear in the 1940s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
In the 1940s, ladies wore clothes defined by clean and slim silhouettes. The jackets, blouses and sweaters often featured shoulderpads and had somewhat of a military feel. Most dresses were quite casual and pants and playsuits became part of a woman's everyday style.
What dresses were popular in the 90s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Many different styles of dress were popular in the 1990s, including the slip dress which became very common by the middle of the decade. Tastes and styles varied between regions and among people. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of vintage 1990s dresses from some of the world’s top boutiques.
What were the dresses in the 20s called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
In the 1920s, the flapper dress became a fresh new look for both day and evening wear. This shift dress hung from shoulder to just below the knee with a significant drop waistline. The evening versions of these dresses often featured lace, fringe, beadwork and luxe fabrics like chiffon, velvet and taffeta. Shop a collection of expertly vetted vintage flapper dresses from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
How can I tell if a dress is from the 1960s or 1970s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To tell if a dress is from the 1960s or 1970s, first look for a label. You may be able to determine the approximate date of the dress simply by researching the designer using reputable online sources. Also, check the zippers. Dresses from the 1960s will usually have metal or nylon zippers. Ones from the 1970s are more likely to be plastic. You'll find a large selection of vintage dresses on 1stDibs.
How did people dress in the 1990s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023
In the 1990s, people dressed in different ways. Styles included grunge, modern preppy, hip-hop and goth. Some trends of the decade were slip dresses, plaid flannel shirts, long plaid skirts, overalls, combat boots and loose-fitting rolled jeans. Neon colors were popular for a time, as were fabric headbands and fabric-covered ponytail holders. Shop a selection of 90s vintage apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
How should I dress for a ’70s party?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
There are a few options for how you should dress for a ’70s party. You can go for the hippie look with dramatic bell-bottoms, fringed jackets and vests and embroidered blouses, or try a sporty look by pairing a vintage tee with high-waisted, button-fly flared jeans and clogs or platform shoes. For a straight-from-the-disco aesthetic, look for surplice and halter dresses decked out in sequins. Men can make a 1970s-inspired statement with a leisure suit or bell-bottoms matched with a turtleneck. Aviator sunglasses are great accessories for both men and women. On 1stDibs, explore a selection of 1970s apparel and accessories.
What are 1920s dresses called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
The iconic dresses from the 1920s are called flapper dresses. This name comes from the term flapper, which was used to describe young women during the period who enjoyed personal fulfillment and independence in American cities, particularly as they gained the right to vote and enjoy other freedoms previously reserved for men. Flappers danced at jazz clubs and upended most societal restrictions placed on women at the time, and fashion statements typically attributed to flappers included short “bob” haircuts, higher hemlines and other then-audacious style choices. Find a selection of flapper dresses on 1stDibs.
What dresses did they wear in the 1960s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
The dresses they wore in the 1960s varied depending on the time of day and the occasion. For everyday wear, many women opted for simply tailored frocks called shift dresses. They often featured bold geometric prints in eye-catching colors. In the evening, women tended to opt for gowns with plunging necklines, fitted waists and flowing full skirts. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of vintage dresses from the 1960s.
What dress was popular in the 1980s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
One of the most popular types of dresses during the 1980s was a tight-fitting sheath with oversized shoulder pads. Peplum accents were also common as were large puffy sleeves. On 1stDibs, find a collection of 1980s vintage dresses on 1stDibs.
How can you tell if a dress is vintage?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 20, 2024
To tell if a dress is vintage, look at the labels inside. By researching the maker and looking at images of the brand's other designs, you may be able to estimate the age of your dress. The label may even have a date printed on it. Generally, clothing must be at least 20 years old to qualify as vintage. If you need assistance dating your clothing, a knowledgeable expert, such as an appraiser or vintage clothing reseller, can help. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of vintage dresses.
What are 50s style dresses called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
1950s-style dresses are often called poodle skirt dresses. The dress is generally a fit-and-flare shape with a wide swing skirt. Another popular type of dress is the form-fitting sheath, also known as a pencil dress.
What color were flapper dresses in the 1920s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Flapper dresses from the 1920s came in a range of colors, although darker hues such as black and navy were immensely popular. Flapper dresses were cut with straight and slim silhouettes, were typically knee-length and had a lower neckline. They were often made from silk chiffon and featured beaded details. You’ll find a selection of 1920s flapper dresses from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What was the dress style in the 1960s called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 27, 2024
What the dress style was called in the 1960s varied, as there were several types of dresses that were fashionable during the decade. At the start of the 1960s, many women wore swing dresses featuring fitted bodices and full skirts. Collared, button-up belted dresses called shirtwaist dresses were also popular, as were loose-fitting, flowy shift dresses. By the late 1960s, new styles emerged, such as flared, flowing tent dresses, sleeveless jumpers usually styled over sweaters and blouses and drop-waist dresses, which had their waist seams at the hips rather than the natural waist. Find a variety of 1960s dresses and other vintage dresses on 1stDibs.
Which designer was called the Mother of American Fashion in the 1940s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
Claire McCardell was the designer often called the Mother of American Fashion in the 1940s. An American designer, she helped introduce women's sportswear to the United States and was particularly well-known for her bias-cut, loose-fitting Monastic dress. When World War II broke out in the 1940s, she designed pieces out of readily available materials like denim, calico and wool jersey, introducing new fabrics for women's clothing that would remain popular well after the close of the war. Many people point to McCardell as one of the first successful American fashion designers. Shop a collection of Claire McCardell apparel on 1stDibs.
How can you tell how old a vintage dress is?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 9, 2024
To tell how old a vintage dress is, use trusted online resources to conduct research. Start by searching for labels that identify the maker. Then, consult online information and images to determine when the brand produced pieces similar to yours. If you run into any problems or would like assistance, consult a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of vintage dresses.
What did wedding dresses look like in the 1900s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
In the 1900s, wedding dresses typically looked like full, floor-length garments. Brides wore S-shaped corsets below the usually ruffled bodices, and most designs included large puff sleeves. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of vintage wedding dresses from some of the world's top boutiques.
How old does a wedding dress have to be to be considered vintage?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
To be considered vintage, a wedding dress has to be at least 20 years old. Many brides opt for vintage wedding dresses due to their timeless style and unique details. Shop a range of vintage and designer wedding dresses from some of the world's top boutiques on 1stDibs.
Which designer became famous with her wrap dresses in the 1970s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 27, 2025
The designer who became famous with her wrap dresses in the 1970s is Diane von Furstenberg. She debuted her first example in 1974. When creating the Wrap dress, von Furstenberg drew inspiration from the skirts worn by ballerinas. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the now-iconic dress, an exhibit called Diane von Furstenberg: Journey of a Dress was held at museums in the United States and abroad. On 1stDibs, explore a range of Diane von Furstenberg apparel and accessories.

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