Question

How did the two World War, bring change. In womens clothing in Europe? Explain.

Answer 1

(i) The World Wars brought a major change in women's clothing. Many European women stopped wearing jewellery and luxurious clothes. As upper class women mixed with other classes, social barriers were eroded and women began to dress in similar ways.
(ii) Clothes got shorter during the First World War out of practical necessity. By 1917, nearly 700,000 women in Britain were employed in ammunition factories. They wore a working uniform of blouse and trousers with accessories such as scarves, which was later replaced by Khaki overalls and caps. Bright colours were no longer in use. Instead sober colours were worn as the war dragged on.
(iii)Thus, clothes became plainer and simpler. Skirts became shorter. Soon trousers became a vital part of western women's clothing. It gave them greater freedom of movement.
(iv) By the 20th century, a plain and austere style came to reflect seriousness and professionalism. Now schools for children emphasised the importance of plain dressing and discouraged ornamentation.
(v) Gymnastics and games entered the school curriculum for women, As women took to sports they needed to wear clothes that did not hamper movement. When they went out to work they needed clothes that were comfortable and convenient.