Shortly after WWII was declared in 1939, materials began being rationed and primarily shipped to efforts involving the war. Wool was used for soldiers' uniforms and silk was manufactured into parachutes, maps, and gunpowder bags. Nylon was later introduced in May 1940 as a multipurpose material.
A few weeks after WWII had been declared, designers in Paris and London introduced lines that had a particular emphasis on practicality and convenience. For example, the shoes were made with a thicker heel and more of a closed toe for easier walking in case of an emergency or evacuation.
Due to the scarcity of materials at this time, the prices for haute-couture were raised incredibly high. In order to raise revenue, both Britain and France exploited the talents of their designers by exporting their collections to America.
German forces invaded Paris in June 1940, causing its dominance of international fashion to come to a halt. Many designers left Paris at this time, unwilling to be under the authority of the Nazis.
Adolf Hitler had planned on transforming Berlin into the cultural capital of the world. Part of this plan included moving Paris's prestigious fashion industry to the German capital. Fortunately the President of the Chambre Syndicale, Lucien Lelong, was able to convince Hitler that this would be impractical. It was agreed that couture would remain in Paris so long as it served under the regulation of the Nazis.
Some designers opposed this and rebelled. Madame Grés produced a line in the colors of the French flag, which resulted in her shop being closed down by the Germans.
**Just a reminder that Adolf Hitler was elected by the people of Germany. Up until Hitler's reign, Germany was a democracy just like America. Vote wisely. Those who forget the past are condemned to repeat it.
Well, that's all for this week! I hope you've enjoyed it and learned something new!
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