World War 2 was a time of unparalleled global conflict that demanded vast resources, innovation, and bravery. Amid the chaos and uncertainty, a remarkable group of women soared to new heights, establishing themselves in a field once dominated by men. These were the ATA girls, affectionately known as “Attagirls!”

Explore the transformation of Japanese fashion during World War II, reflecting both the scarcity of resources and the promotion of traditional attire as a symbol of national identity. Through adaptation and resilience, wartime fashion in Japan exemplified a unique blend of necessity and cultural pride.

1930s & 40s Hollywood was a time of glamour, sophistication, and escapism, with visionaries whose needles and thread wove magic into he fabric of cinema. Let’s look at some of the most iconic designs of the time, and the influential designers behind them.

Everyone loves a good vintage event! From vintage car racing to World War 2 re-enactment weekends, there’s a 1940s-themed weekend for everyone around the UK this year.

 

Her remarkable journey through the 20th century bore witness to transformative cultural shifts, from the glamorous heights of the fashion world to the harrowing depths of war-torn Europe.

From ancient civilisations to contemporary catwalks, hosiery has significantly shaped fashion and reflected societal norms. Join us on a fascinating journey through time as we unravel the rich history of hosiery, exploring its origins, and transformation in wartime restrictions.

Known for her distinctive sultry voice, smouldering looks, and undeniable talent, Bacall carved a niche for herself as a legendary actress who captivated audiences for generations.
 
But how did she transform herself from a shy, high-pitched drama school student to one of Hollywood’s timeless alluring and sultry actresses?

At this time of year, there are vintage events and festivals dotted all around the country to celebrate bygone eras. The annual Goodwood Revival from the 8th to the 10th of September is a firm favourite vintage event with us here at The Seamstress of Bloomsbury, and we want to help you look as fabulous as possible!

150 years ago if you wanted to go to the beach as a woman you would be wearing several layers of cumbersome cotton or flannel just to dip your toes - thankfully things have changed a lot since then, and swimwear is much more liberating for women now than it was all that time ago. But how did we go from wearing a multi-layered swim ensemble to our modern bikinis where sometimes almost nothing is left to the imagination?

 

From protecting factory workers hair, to saving prisoners of war in WW2, silk was one of the most sought after and versatile fabrics of the time! But just how did silk keep so many at home and abroad safe?

The pin-up models of the 1940s/50s are iconic symbols of the time, with scantily clad ladies being painted on military vehicles, appearing in war propaganda, and being popular in general in America especially throughout the war and post-war period. Pin-ups were nothing new though, and the idea of ‘pinning up’ art and photos has been around since at least the 1800s, if not earlier!

The end of the war also brought about new revolutions, and the fashion industry was about to experience a wave of modernity thanks to one French man.