World War I and World War II required mobilizing the entire nation not only ideologically, but also in every aspect of life, including the clothing people wore. The wartime economy, the change in population demographics, the expanding domestic economy (with more people working), and the shift to women in the workforce all had a tremendous impact on fashion. Styles are always influenced by the function clothes must serve, economic factors, the availability of goods, social expression and social aspiration, Hollywood, and by what is worn by the armed forces. These influences affect fashion and fashion affects, and reflects, culture and society.

Fashion Prior to World War I

Before World War I, France was fashion's center. American women looked to French designers for direction and guidance. By following high fashions and staying current with the...