Vintage 1940s Evening Dress Patterns

Evening fashion in the 1940s evolved from wartime simplicity to post-war elegance. Austerity initially favoured practical, boxy silhouettes, but later styles embraced fitted bodices, defined waists and graceful floor-length gowns. Inspired princess-style dresses with A-line skirts, low backs and elegant jackets.  See 1940s Fashion Styles.