| World War II closed many fashion houses in Paris. | | | | way to defy the foreign powers. |
| Couture was among those affected by the | | | | While there were many fashion shops that closed |
| re-education program initiated by the French | | | | down or relocation during the war, there were a few |
| government. German invaders took possession of | | | | new names that opened shop. During the World War, |
| French high fashion, and even considered the | | | | women flaunted extravagance by wearing a hat. It |
| relocation of the haute couture to German cities Berlin | | | | was the only way they can do so without earning the |
| and Vienna, both of which had little tradition of fashion. | | | | ire of the authorities. |
| These were some of the more significant changes in | | | | Americans took advantage of Paris’ isolation to |
| the French fashion landscape. | | | | show off their creativity. American designers |
| During those times, models in fashion shows were | | | | introduced innovations in the way men wore work |
| limited to a maximum of 75, while the time for evening | | | | clothes. Sportswear among women also became |
| wear was significantly lessened. Day wear was also | | | | more popular with American designers manufacturing |
| made skimpier. In the 1940s, coats were limited to no | | | | more of these items. |
| more than 4 meters in length. Blouses were limited to | | | | In 1947, couturier Christian Dior made waves with his |
| at least 1 meter. But despite all the restrictions, the | | | | collection of dresses with tiny waists, and extravagant |
| fashion industry pushed on, emphasizing humor as a | | | | busts, a style similar to the Belle Epoque. |