1940s Costume
Step back in time with classic swing-era elegance and vintage style.
The 1940s is a popular costume choice for swing dances, historical events, and vintage-themed parties. This look captures wartime utility and post-war elegance, featuring structured silhouettes, A-line skirts, or high-waisted trousers. Whether you choose a civilian swing style or a land girl aesthetic, it is easy to assemble with modern thrift finds.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- ~30 min
- Budget
- $30–80
Try it on
See yourself as 1940s
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What you need for a 1940s costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete 1940s costume — one box instead of 6 pieces.
Vintage Swing Dress
A knee-length A-line dress with structured shoulders, a defined waist, and a retro pattern or solid color.
DIY: Pair a knee-length pleated skirt with a tucked-in short-sleeve button-down blouse.
High-Waisted Trousers
Wide-leg, pleated trousers in brown, grey, or navy, worn high on the waist.
DIY: Use oversized thrifted dress pants and cinch them high with a belt or suspenders.
Button-Down Shirt
A classic white or light-colored short-sleeve or long-sleeve dress shirt.
DIY: Use any plain white dress shirt from your closet.
Suspenders
Button-on or clip-on elastic suspenders in black, brown, or navy.
Felt Fedora Hat
A classic felt fedora with a wide brim and a dark ribbon band.
Oxford Shoes
Leather oxfords, saddle shoes, or low-heeled T-strap pumps.
DIY: Any clean brown or black leather dress shoes or flat loafers.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made 1940s costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Choose your base style: either a knee-length A-line swing dress or high-waisted pleated trousers paired with a button-down shirt.
- 2
If wearing trousers, tuck the shirt in tightly and attach the suspenders over your shoulders.
- 3
Add vintage-style footwear, such as leather oxfords, saddle shoes, or low-heeled T-strap pumps.
- 4
Style your hair into iconic victory rolls or a neat side part with pomade.
- 5
Top off the masculine look with a felt fedora angled slightly to one side.
- 6
Finish the feminine look with a swipe of classic matte red lipstick.
Makeup & hair
For women, style hair into classic victory rolls or a pin-curl set, paired with matte red lipstick and defined winged eyeliner. For men, style hair with a neat side part using pomade for a slick, polished look.
1940s for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair a WW2 soldier in uniform with a civilian in a swing dress, or go as a factory worker and Rosie the Riveter.
- group
- Go as a 1940s big band, a group of swing dancers, or WW2-era military personnel.
- kids
- A newsie outfit with a flat cap, vest, and knickers, or a simple A-line dress with white bobby socks.
- Plus size
- A-line swing dresses with defined waistlines offer a highly flattering, authentic 1940s silhouette.
- pet
- A small dog wearing a vintage tweed flat cap or a miniature red-and-white polka dot bandana.
Tips
- Thrift stores are excellent sources for genuine vintage or vintage-style pleated trousers and A-line skirts.
- Keep shoes comfortable if you plan on swing dancing or walking around a party.
- Use hairspray and bobby pins generously to keep victory rolls secure throughout the night.
1940s costume FAQ
- What did women wear in the 1940s?
- Women typically wore knee-length A-line skirts, utility dresses with padded shoulders, or practical trousers for work, often styled with victory rolls.
- How do I make a quick DIY 1940s costume?
- Tuck a white button-down shirt into high-waisted pants with suspenders, or wear a floral knee-length dress with a cardigan and red lipstick.
- What shoes are authentic to the 1940s?
- Leather oxfords, saddle shoes, loafers, and low-heeled T-strap pumps are all historically accurate choices.
Did you know? Due to wartime fabric rationing, 1940s fashion shifted toward shorter hemlines and simpler, utilitarian designs without excess pleats or pockets.