1940s Skirts

Skirts were the workhorse of the 1940s wardrobe: practical enough for work, smart enough for the office and full enough to dance in. Our 1940s skirts are cut and sewn in our Yorkshire factory, in corduroy, wool blends and stretch crepe, in pleated, waterfall and swirling styles that sit on the natural waist and fall to just below the knee.

1940s skirt styles

• The 1940s pleated skirt, like our Prim Pleated Skirt, is the classic wartime shape: fitted at the waist, with front inverted pleats and a slight fishtail flare. The pleats make them easy to walk in.
• The waterfall skirt has a faux wrap front and an asymmetric drop. It is more 'wiggle' than swing, and the ruching over the tummy is very flattering.
• A 1940s swing skirt such as the Whirlaway is the one to dance in: a button closing at the side, a patch pocket and a swirling, below-the-knee shape in stretch crepe.

What is the right 1940s skirt length?

Knee-length or just below, usually 26 to 29 inches from the natural waist on ours. Wartime rules on fabric kept hemlines shorter than the mid-calf lengths of the 1930s, and the shape stayed practical: easy to walk, cycle and work in.

Pair yours with a 1940s blouse tucked in at the waist, add a jacket for a suit look, or browse the 1940s suits. Our guide to 1940s blouses shows how to put the two together. Sizes start at a UK 8 and most styles go up to a 24; the size guide will help you choose.