>Alpine Whimsy, 1940

>I find it highly fascinating that “alpine” or “Scandinavian” or “folk” style was all the rage from 1938 to 1940.  There were dirndls, hats, suspenders, belts, aprons, and all sorts of silly fashions.  Garbo is partially responsible for the popularity of it in this country.  There was an alpine clothiers in Hollywood that opened and Garbo frequented the shop in the late 30s- so the trend caught on.
Here’s a do-it-yourself version to be sent away for- stamped felt to construct your own “alpine” style suspenders and belt from 1940.  I think an ingenious modern gal could construct very similar accessories out of the Mexican style embroidered garments you sometimes run across in thrift stores.  Maybe not “alpine” but a similar feel.  I absolutely love the 40s version of the fanny pack- I guess more of a hip pocketbook.

Click on the image for a larger version.
If you want to read more about this somewhat fascinating fashion trend- considering that the War was just around the corner, pick up Nazi Chic? by Irene Guenther.  It’s a heavy read, and somewhat frightening, but is absolutely fascinating.  Also, Forties Fashion: From Siren Suits to the New Look by Jonathan Walford touches on the subject in the first chapter of his book.
I am so glad that you guys are getting a kick out of these things I’ve been posting.  Thanks so much for your comments! It’s so much fun to share these things :)

9 Comments on >Alpine Whimsy, 1940

  1. Lauren
    December 16, 2009 at 10:33 pm (14 years ago)

    >It's always fascinating how trends begin. Great post :-)

  2. Bucca
    December 16, 2009 at 10:56 pm (14 years ago)

    >Love it will def look into that book it sounds like a good read.I'm so excited to find someone else with an interest in historical fashion!

  3. BaronessVonVintage
    December 17, 2009 at 12:48 am (14 years ago)

    >SO interesting. I've been reading about how Adrian popularized the Empress Eugenie late Victorian hat, which is a sort of Tyrolean/riding hat….and then I did a post on my own blog yesterday in me wearing one such chapeau, so this all fits together nicely. Fascinating post!

  4. reilly
    December 17, 2009 at 1:56 am (14 years ago)

    >Oh, cute! Thanks for sharing!

  5. AlohaAroha
    December 17, 2009 at 8:02 am (14 years ago)

    >How whimsical (or was that whimsicle – tee hee!)! I can't say I'm a huge fan of the style – too costume-y!

  6. Brook
    December 17, 2009 at 10:15 am (14 years ago)

    >hahha gotta love it!

  7. "The Golden Girl of the West"
    December 17, 2009 at 9:24 pm (14 years ago)

    >I know, isn't that funny! I just found a early 40's Scandinavian sweater at the thrift store the other day!~Syd

  8. Lauren
    April 7, 2011 at 11:39 pm (13 years ago)

    >Love it will def look into that book it sounds like a good read.I'm so excited to find someone else with an interest in historical fashion!

  9. Lauren
    April 7, 2011 at 11:39 pm (13 years ago)

    >SO interesting. I've been reading about how Adrian popularized the Empress Eugenie late Victorian hat, which is a sort of Tyrolean/riding hat….and then I did a post on my own blog yesterday in me wearing one such chapeau, so this all fits together nicely. Fascinating post!

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