What’s past can be present: in this worldwide perspective on pre–, during, and post–World War II fashions, curator Walford provides a fascinating narrative—all populated by four-color and black-and-white illustrations, photographs, and ads—on what women could and did wear some 60 to 70 years ago.

Every nation participates; the infamous 1933 German boycott of Jewish businesses (retail, in particular) begins the lengthy story. Parisians’ refusal to cede the title of world couturier leads to the real postwar charge of collaboration against such brand-name luminaries as Jacques Fath and Marcel Boussac. American ingenuity with limited resources and materials results in California casual design—and a country intent on winning the war with whatever was needed. It’s also an era that marks the ascension of trousers for women, “fake” textiles such as rayon and celluloid, and the tremendous generosity of Americans to other war-besieged lands (a little-known fact is that First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt sent previously worn bridal gowns and veils to British servicewomen to use during their weddings).

"Great stories, remarkable acts of patriotism—yes, even in female fashion—mark the indomitable spirit of humanity." - Barbara Jacobs

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