Fashion for Children During World War I and II: A Brief History
During the tumultuous periods of World War I (1914-1918) and World War II (1939-1945), the fashion trends for children were significantly influenced by rationing, fabric shortages, and the overall economic and social conditions. This article explores the clothing worn by children during these war periods, shedding light on the creativity and resourcefulness required to clothe the younger generation.
UK Context: Hand-Me-Downs and Rationing
In the United Kingdom, during both wars, clothing was a scarce commodity. As a result, it was common for children to wear hand-me-downs. My father, being the youngest among four boys, often wore items passed down from older siblings. His mother, often referred to as Nana, kept any outgrown items in storage for potential reuse. Even with the increased rationing of clothing and fabric during World War II, most folks would try to make use of the materials available. Adults and children alike wore second-hand, remade, and repaired clothing to make ends meet.
Common Fashion Trends
Typically, children's fashion in the late 1910s during World War I and the early 1940s during World War II followed common trends that were both practical and fashionable. Clothing items for both boys and girls were influenced by the era's style. For instance, boys would wear short pants until puberty when they would graduate to long trousers, while girls typically wore dresses. In colder months, shorts were still permissible for boys, often paired with long woolen stockings held in place by garter belts. Due to the rationing of elastic, stockings and men's socks were held in place by stocking holders tied around the calves. Girls also wore these long stockings under their short skirts.
Country-Specific Practices: Germany’s Experience
In Germany, the fashion for children during World War II varied based on the parents' wealth and the availability of materials, which were often rationed. Traditional attire for small boys included shorts until puberty, with long underpants to prevent cold. Girls usually wore dresses. However, the scarcity of materials meant that clothing was often homemade, particularly using locally available materials like wool. Grandmothers and aunts, who were skilled in knitting, often produced scratchy but functional stockings and other garments.
Children's clothing was frequently handed down from older siblings or from friends and family. This practice not only economized but also fostered a sense of community and connection among families during challenging times. My parents often recounted stories about the hand-knitted pullovers and cardigans they had to try on in their early years, highlighting the personal touch and the craftsmanship involved in these items.
Overall, the fashion for children during these war periods was a blend of practicality and creativity, showcasing how families adapted to the limitations imposed by wartime conditions. The stories and memories passed down through generations continue to paint a vivid picture of life during those challenging times.