There are many different types of personal styles in the fascinating fashion decade that is the 1940s, from cotton print wrap housedresses to sophisticated shirred dresses, worn with tilt hats and furs. One of the easiest to put together, especially from modern wardrobes, is the simple styles worn by teens and college age girls.

Most 1940s dresses and blouses had a defined waist, almost always with a belt. The one exception would be some sweaters and tunic length vests and blouses, which were frequently worn for the more comfortable casual outfits, like for study halls and classes. This type of top would often have pockets, or buttons down the side, and when worn with a short white skirt works for sportswear as well.

Example of youthful fashions of the 1940s, with an untucked top worn without a belt. Notice the hair bow and the simple hairstyles. See my version of this pattern here.

Thankfully, it's fairly easy to find sweaters and tunic length blouses in thrift stores, like this blue one I got for a few dollars. The basic slashed neck, loose ¾ sleeves, and patch pockets are very period correct. It should probably have shoulder pads, but those are easy to add. The fabric is a ribbed knit fabric which also gives it a more casual air like a sweater.

Some sweaters and long blouses could be worn belted, but also not, so you have some options with wear. If you find one, look for either long tops with a straight hem, like the one I'm wearing, or if it's a sweater, you can also do well with short cardigans and pullovers that come just to the hips or just past the hips. There are lots of great patterns out there for hand knit sweaters that can show you what to look for, if you glance over their illustrations, like the one below which shows a trim, short sweater in classic 1940s style.

Also from the 1940s, here's an example of a heavier sports sweater that zips up the front, and is worn longer with a belt.

For this type of outfit – very wearable in real life, by the way – you want to pair the top with an A line skirt preferably that can be just below the knee to mid-calf. Pleated skirts work great too, in solids or plaids.

You'll want to wear white ankle socks, with tops that fold down (I didn't have any so I had to make do), and for shoes wear something like these classic loafers, or lower wedge heels or sandals. Espadrilles can also be suitable but they have a little more summery flavor.

Hairstyles for schoolgirls were usually simple and well-brushed, since being well groomed was a very big part of being attractive, according to the women's magazines of the time. Hairbows could be worn, fitting in with the youthful look. 

For this type of outfit you wouldn't need a hat, but if you wear a hat it should be a simple one with a round brim, a sailor type, a lightly trimmed felt cap or beret – all worn on the back of the head – or even a pixie knitted stocking cap!

Usually jewelry was kept to a minimum, with a brooch or fraternity pin on the shoulder, and perhaps a charm bracelet or bead necklace. Rings were popular.

 Vintage images are the best inspiration, and Pinterest is a gold mine.. Notice the sweaters these girls are wearing – their low shoes, the simple hairstyles, and the universal white Peter Pan collar – another mark of a well-groomed girl was that touch of spotless white. But only if it was spotless!

These two ladies are modeling a more casual and dressy outfit suitable for college. Notice the round hat, off-the-face hairstyle, lack of jewelry and gloves, and the sensible shoes.

All these elements can be easy to collect from thrift stores if you know what to look for. And since a hat and seamed nylons and even gloves aren't necessary, it's a great outfit idea for a gal who wants to wear a costume but doesn't have the right accessories!