Wakes, Winter 1947

 In the annals of high fashion, 1947 was the year in which Christian Dior unleashed his "New Look" upon the world.  It made a big splash in the news internationally.  The makers of everyday fashion, however, decided to play things safe. How could they tell whether they were looking at a genuine shift or just a passing fad?  This was especially pertinent when you consider that many countries still had rationing and/or shortages of materials.

The fashions from Wakes catalogue below illustrate this approach.  Waists are slightly emphasised, but shoulders remain broad.  Skirts are fuller, but still only come down a little way below the knee.

THREE PIECE ENSEMBLE

CYCLAMEN-RED AND JET BLACK team together in an all-wool ensemble incorporating all the new season's newest features.  The collarless jacket comes in the gorgeous new Cyclamen-Red illustrated.  Cut in 7 figure-hugging gores, with divinely figure fitted back, darted front panels and simulated hip pockets.  Appliqued Jet-Black motif on the front, smoothly tailored shoulders, narrow tie in front half belt.  The pencil slim skirt has a graceful long inverted pleat both front and back, dart-fitted back, firm waistband—zip placket.  The prophetic three-quarter length coat picks up the cyclamen-red in its appliqued shoulder motif, features full-cut sleeves, twin pockets, poker straight shoulders, boxy cut.  The three pieces team together, or form the basis of a wardrobe worn individually. 

 

FINE PURE WOOL FROCKING fashioned into a slime flare-skirt'd beauty.  Bow of self-material belt "ties" slender sheaf of cornelli embroidered bulrushes.  Contour moulding bodice boasts new tiny vent'd neckline.  Unbuttons to below waist at back.

NEW FLANGE SHOULDERS with pretty plastic ornament to focus attention on them as they accent whittled waist of this all-wool dress.  Single file of covered buttons from neck to waistline (top four undo).  Unpressed pleats give skirt fluid fullness.

TUNIC TOPPER

THE SPORTY THREE-QUARTER STITCHED STORM COAT.  Flaunting window clear silver-dollar-size plastic perspex storm-cuff buttons.  Six panel princess cut with flared skirt, welted pockets, welted collar and front; brand new big stitched belt and self-covered flaps.  Stitched storm flaps and heavily-raised welting on sleeves.  Pure-wool weighty fleece coating.  Fully lined.