Women's Fashion:
- New Look: Christian Dior's revolutionary "New Look" silhouette dominated women's fashion in 1949. This style featured a cinched waist, a full, calf-length skirt, and a fitted bodice that emphasized a woman's curves.
- Dresses and Skirts: Dresses were the most common attire for women. Styles ranged from fitted wiggle dresses to those with A-line or full skirts. Skirts were often paired with blouses or sweaters.
- Blouses and Tops: Blouses with ruffles, bows, or lace accents were popular. Cropped boleros and cardigans were also fashionable layering pieces.
- Pants and Shorts: While not as common as dresses and skirts, pants gained popularity in 1949. Women wore wide-legged trousers, culottes, and capris. Shorts were generally reserved for casual settings.
- Hosiery: Stockings were essential accessories, and women often paired them with garter belts.
- Accessories: Jewelry was typically delicate, with pearls being a popular choice. Scarves, hats, gloves, and handbags added finishing touches to an outfit.
Men's Fashion:
- Suits: Suits remained a staple of men's fashion in 1949. Single-breasted suits with natural shoulder lines and narrow lapels were the most popular.
- Shirts and Ties: Men's shirts often featured button-down collars and short sleeves for casual occasions. Neckties were an important accessory, and various patterns and colors were available.
- Pants and Trousers: Pleated trousers and cuffed pants were common, and they were typically worn with a belt.
- Hats: Hats were still widely worn by men in 1949. Fedora, trilby, and homburg hats were among the most popular styles.
- Shoes: Leather dress shoes, oxfords, and loafers were common footwear for men.
- Accessories: Pocket squares and cufflinks added a touch of elegance to men's attire.
In general, 1949 fashion struck a balance between the elegance and refinement of the pre-war years and the desire for a more relaxed, modern look. This transitional period paved the way for the styles of the 1950s, which would embrace new fabrics, bolder colors, and a shift toward more casual and youthful styles.