Fashionable Clothing from the Sears Catalogs

Book excerpt: The Sears Catalog series continues with this latest look at the early 1930s fashion trends. Hundreds of photos show the popular dress styles for men, women, and children. Everything from fur, gowns, dresses, and suits; work clothes, shoes, and even the undergarments are covered in this volume! Glorious hats, smart and chic gloves, and other accessories can be found here as well. The slim silhouette was the "look" for women during this time. These styles focused on feminine curves by way of figure-hugging gowns, dresses, skirts, and sweaters. Fur, whether a coat, wrap, or stole, was a must-have for women of this time. Fashion followed what was worn in Hollywood. Sportswear for women was influenced by a more masculine style. Sport suits, leather jackets, and middy slacks became popular. Men wore swanky suits, and new styles were bursting forth in this new era. The double-breasted jacket became popular in the 1930s, and suits were tailored with squared shoulders to give the visual effect of a larger torso. The tennis/sport shoe became popular during this this time, thanks to Hollywood's adopting this fashion. Hats for men and women were worn to stylishly complement their ensembles. Take a look at the fashions of yesteryear that were declared "fashionable" by the actors and actresses in Hollywood and designers in New York.