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Vintage Dresses 1940S

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1940 s Fashion Illustration - Lady In Bright Blue Puffy Dress, Interior Scene
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Very stylish, unique and original 1940's fashion design by French illustrator Geneviève Thomas
Category

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Gouache

Tissot for C. D. Peacock Platinum Art Deco Ladies Dress Watch 1940 s
Located in Long Beach, CA
/ MATERIAL: Platinum CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 30mm Length X 9mm Diameter MOVEMENT / CALIBER
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Platinum

1940 s Fashion Illustration - Lady In White Dress With Draped Orange Head Scarf
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Very stylish, unique and original 1940's fashion design by French illustrator Geneviève Thomas
Category

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Gouache

Circa 1940 s jersey cocktail dress with pink flowers printed
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
jersey cocktail dress with pink flowers printed. Gather in the middle front on the bust, ruffles on
Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

Vintage Swag Double Dress Clip 1940s
Located in Wilmslow, GB
A Vintage swag double dress clip from the 1940s. Wear as a brooch or as a pair of dress clips. An
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

Audemars Piguet 18Kt. Yellow and Rose Gold Hand Made Art Deco Dress Watch 1940 s
By Audemars Piguet
Located in Long Beach, CA
/ MATERIAL: 18Kt. Gold Two Tone Yellow & Rose DIMENSIONS: Length 34mm X Width 25mm CIRCA: 1940's MOVEMENT
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Rose Gold

1940s Retro Sapphire and Platinum Dress Set
Located in New York, NY
3.75 carats. With box. Circa 1940’s. Signed, “Plat”. Dimensions: Cuff links: 1/2" square
Category

1940s Unknown Retro Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Platinum

Printed cotton hostess dress wrap in the front Circa 1940 s
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Printed cotton hostess dress wrap in the front and close with one snap. Belt-loop but no belt
Category

1940s Unknown Vintage Dresses 1940S

Decorative dress clip from the early 1940 s, signed EISENBERG ORIGINAL USA
By Eisenberg Originals
Located in Stuttgart, DE
Large classic EISENBERG CLIP, from the great American master of stone! His creations compete in light and color with the most prcious stones. Dimensions: Clip height 11 cm - Cli...
Category

1940s American Modern Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Crystal, Base Metal

Vintage Art Deco Leaf Double Dress Clip 1940s
Located in Wilmslow, GB
A beautiful vintage leaf double dress clip. Wear as a brooch or as a pair of dress clips. An
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

Vintage Coro Duette sapphire double dress clip 1940s
By Coro
Located in Wilmslow, GB
A Vintage Coro Duette sapphire dress clip. A delightful Art Deco inspired design set with
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

Vintage 18ct Gold Stamped, 1940s Onyx Diamond Dress Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Onyx Diamond Ring 18ct Gold Stamped Circa 1940s This stunning vintage dress ring
Category

Mid-20th Century Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 18k Gold

Portrait of a Lady in Gold Dress - British 1940 s female portrait oil painting
Located in Hagley, England
This superb British 1940's portrait oil painting is by noted artist Frank Owen Salisbury also known
Category

1940s Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Oil

1940s Art Deco Hand Carved Wood Dog Head Dress Clips
Located in University City, MO
1940s Art Deco Hand carved wood dog head dress clips The set of dress clips are designed with a
Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

Hamilton 14 Karat Solid White Gold Ladies Dress Watch with Original Dial, 1940s
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
: 14Kt. Solid Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 43mm Length X Width 18mm Width MOVEMENT
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

18 Karat Yellow Gold and Platinum Diamond Retro Dress Ring, 1940s
Located in Zurich, CH
Ravishing 18 karat yellow gold, platinum and diamond Retro dress ring from the 1940s. Eye-catching
Category

1940s Unknown Retro Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum

Birks Platinum Art Deco Ladies Diamond and Sapphire Dress Watch from 1940s
By Birks
Located in Long Beach, CA
: Platinum Diamond and Sapphire CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 32 Length X 15 Width MOVEMENT
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Hamilton 14 Karat Solid Gold Art Deco Ladies Diamond Dress Watch from 1940s
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
/ MATERIAL: 14Kt. Solid Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 34mm X Width 14mm MOVEMENT
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Signed Coro Art Deco Silver and Marcasite Duette Brooch and Dress Clip, 1940s
Located in Tucson, AZ
dress clips. Art Deco brooch featuring a radiating ovoid starburst decorated with minuscule marcasite
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Marcasite, Base Metal, Silver

1940S White Striped Rayon Step In Slip Dress
Located in New York, NY
1940S White Striped Rayon Step In Slip Dress MORPHEW VINTAGE represents the finest pieces of
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

Vintage 1940s Jaeger-LeCoultre Square Dress Watch – Manual Wind
By Jaeger-LeCoultre
Located in New York, NY
An elegant 1940s Jaeger-LeCoultre timepiece showcasing the refined geometry of early mid-century
Category

Mid-20th Century Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

18k Gold

1940s White Striped Rayon Step In Slip Dress
Located in New York, NY
White Striped Rayon Step In Slip Dress
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

"Young Woman in Blue Dress", Stunning 1940s Portrait of Blonde Female
Located in Philadelphia, PA
This fresh and vibrant portrait of a young woman with glowing blond hair and a blue 1940s frock is
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Paint

1.49ct Natural Unheated Blue Sapphire Diamond 18k Gold Dress Ring, circa 1940s
Located in London, GB
weight of 9.6 grams. France, circa 1940's. French hallmark. UK finger size 'N1/2'.
Category

1940s French Retro Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

1940S Red Rayon Silk Burnout Velvet Chinese Slip Dress
Located in New York, NY
1940S Red Rayon & Silk Burnout Velvet Chinese Slip Dress MORPHEW VINTAGE represents the finest
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940S Mint Rayon Satin Lace Trim Bias Cut Slip Dress
Located in New York, NY
1940S Mint Rayon Satin & Lace Trim Bias Cut Slip Dress
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Kamehameha Graphic Figural Print Rayon Dress in Polynesian Style
By Kamehameha
Located in Gresham, OR
A fabulous and rare 1940s Kamehameha Polynesian styled mid-century graphic figural print rayon
Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Moroccan Antique Caftan Gold Damask Embroidered Caftan Maxi Dress
Located in Moreno Valley, CA
Amazing antique Moroccan Caftan, gold silk damask with a gold threads trim, Circa 1940's The gold
Category

20th Century Moroccan Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Sterling Silver Retro Ribbon Form Dress Clip in Rose Gold Wash
Located in Milford, DE
This dynamic 1940s dress clip is a beautiful example of Retro-era jewelry design, crafted in
Category

Mid-20th Century Retro Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Sterling Silver

Hamilton Platinum Ladies Art Deco Styled Diamond Dress Watch, circa 1940s
Located in Long Beach, CA
/ MATERIAL: Platinum CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 32mm X Width 14mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Platinum

Vintage 9k ROLEX Watch. Rolex 9k YG 12324 Dress Watch 1940s
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Vintage Rolex Mens Watch 9k Yellow Gold Case ref.12324 Windup Movement. Runs well. Circa 1946 Beautiful Watch. New Genuine Gucci Leather band. 30mm round Case
Category

1940s Modern Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

9k Gold, Yellow Gold

A Stylish Vintage 1940s Fashion Study, Design for a Women s Dress, Lucien Lelong
Located in Chicago, IL
A stylish, vintage, 1940s fashion study featuring an elegant design for a woman's jacket dress
Category

1940s American Modern Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Paper, Watercolor, Pencil, Color Pencil

1940S Baby Pink Silk Hand Embroidered Negligee Slip Dress With Adjustable Waist
Located in New York, NY
1940S Baby Pink Silk Hand Embroidered Negligee Slip Dress With Adjustable Waist Ties
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

Girl with Bow Dress with Flower in Her Hair from Wallendorf, 1940s
Located in Montelabbate, PU
Ceramic sculpture of a girl with a bow dress with flower in her hair of Wallendorf.
Category

1940s German Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Porcelain

1940S Peach Silk Crepe De Chine Long Sleeve Dress With Hand Smocked Detailing
Located in New York, NY
1940S Peach Silk Crepe De Chine Long Sleeve Dress With Hand Smocked Detailing XL
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940S Floral Bias Cut Rayon Negligee With Lace Neck Line Slip Dress XL
Located in New York, NY
1940S Floral Bias Cut Rayon Negligee With Lace Neck Line Slip Dress XL
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940s Green Polka-Dot Silk Satin Dress, Green Wool Bolero and Hat Ensemble
Located in Gresham, OR
A charming 1940s coordinating ensemble--sold together: A green and cream polka-dot silk satin
Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940S Baby Blue Bias Cut Rayon Crepe De Chine Slip Dress With Lace Trim
Located in New York, NY
1940S Baby Blue Bias Cut Rayon Crepe De Chine Slip Dress With Lace Trim
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

The White Dress
By Francois Gerome
Located in Missouri, MO
Francois Gerome "The White Dress" c. 1940s/50 Oil on Canvas approx. 10 x 8 inches approx. 16 x 13
Category

1940s Impressionist Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirror with Decorative Nails, Otto Schulz, Sweden, 1940s
By Otto Schulz
Located in Örebro, SE
Wall mirror attributed to Otto Schulz, 1940's. Frame dressed in dark red faux leather, decorated
Category

1940s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Brass

Eisenberg Oval Crystal Dress Clip
By Eisenberg Originals
Located in New York, NY
Sparkling Eisenberg Oval Crystal Dress Clip from the 1940's. These large crystals are the
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Base Metal

Vintage 1940s Gruen 14K Yellow Gold Tank Style Watch
By Gruen
Located in New York, NY
A refined 1940s Gruen dress watch, featuring a 22x25mm 14K yellow gold tank-style case with elegant
Category

Mid-20th Century Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold

1940s Sterling Silver Gold Wash Brooch with Emerald-Cut Purple Glass Stone
Located in Milford, DE
of period costume pieces or those seeking a standout accent for a lapel or dress. Era: 1940s
Category

Mid-20th Century Retro Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Sterling Silver

Vintage Mens Dove Gray Suede Dress Gloves
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Brooks Brothers Mens Dove Gray Suede Dress Gloves from the 1940's. Size 8.5 Mens buttery
Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

14 Karat Yellow Gold and Rose Gold Bracelet
Located in Dallas, TX
to dress up or down. Circa 1940's.
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Rose Gold, Yellow Gold

Vacheron Constantin Vintage Watch
By Vacheron Constantin
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This exquisite 1940s Vacheron Constantin dress watch is an early testament to the Maison’s
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

18k Gold

Finely-Modeled Vintage Patinated Bronze Figure of a Golfer
Located in San Francisco, CA
Dressed in vintage 1940s clothes, the pensive golfer stares down the fairway after completing the
Category

1940s American Other Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Bronze

Lucien Piccard Yellow Gold Dilishein Cocktail Wristwatch
By Lucien Piccard
Located in Mount Kisco, NY
An exquisite heirloom circa late 1940's ladies dress bracelet wrist watch by Lucien Piccard. This
Category

1940s Swiss Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

World War 2 coal saving poster ‘Save Fuel in the Living Room by Beverley Pick
By Beverley Pick
Located in London, GB
. The character's hair and dress are fantastically 1940s. Beverley Pick was born in the Netherlands. He
Category

1940s Realist Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Lithograph

World War 2 coal saving poster ‘Save Fuel at Tea Time by Beverley Pick
By Beverley Pick
Located in London, GB
character's hair and dress are fantastically 1940s. Beverley Pick was born in the Netherlands. He spent the
Category

1940s Realist Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Lithograph

GANGSTERS Signed Lithograph, City Portrait, Men, Buildings, Dark Sunglasses
By Robin Morris
Located in Union City, NJ
graphic color portrait depicting two men dressed in vintage 1940's style detective overcoats and classic
Category

1980s Art Deco Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Lithograph

1940s Tiffany Sapphire Gold Cufflinks and Studs Formal Set
By Tiffany Co.
Located in New York, NY
A smart and handsome 1940s man's formal dress set by Tiffany & Co. consisting of cufflinks and
Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

Materials

Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold

1940 s Black Crepe Dress
Located in New York, NY
Flawless 1940s Crepe Peplum Dress. Has gorgeous floral sequins and gold thread details throughout
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940 s Black Feather Print Dress
Located in North Miami Beach, FL
Get an instant vintage update with this 1940's black feather print dress. This feather print dress
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940 s "Garden of Eden" Novelty Printed Shirt Dress
Located in Yucca Valley, CA
an apple tree. Classic shirt dress construction with 3/4 sleeves, button front, tab collar, nipped
Category

1940s Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940 s Rayon Coco Blue Tailored Shirt Waisted Dress
Located in Toronto, ON
Coco Robin's Egg Blue 1940's Rayon Shirt Waisted Dress. Unique floral geometric pattern. Shawl
Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

1940 s CLAIRE McCARDELL Silk cocktail dress
By Claire McCardell
Located in Newport Beach, CA
Excellent condition, late 1940's CLAIRE McCARDELL, silk, fruits & flowers cocktail dress. This
Category

1940s American Vintage Dresses 1940S

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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
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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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