The glamorous 40s are back this season with lashings of fur, ladylike pencil skirts and waist-nipping jackets all making an appearance. Present in numerous shows from the heavily embellished tea dress at Miu Miu to the sharp tailoring and pill box hats of Marc Jacobs.
LK Bennett Black Jude Pencil Skirt
John Lewis
On the knee is the length of choice when it comes to 40s glamour, but be sure to team one with heels to really lengthen the leg.
Irene Dunne
Channel screen siren Irene Dunne in all her 40s glory with a skirt suit and fur accessories. Bring the look up to date by swapping the vintage hat for a fedora, or instead of a feminine skirt go for wide leg masculine trouser like another of our 40s heroines Marlene Dietrich.
PHOTO BY: Courtesy Everett Collection / Rex Features
LK Bennet Black Jude Jacket
John Lewis
A structured jacket with a nipped in waist is essential to nail the 40s trend. Pair with silk blouse and plenty of fur accessories for ultimate ladylike glamour.
Faux Fur Stole
Liberty
Liberty London Collection’s faux fur stole is 40s glamour at its best. Dress up an evening coat or wear with a chunky knit cardigan for a casual look with a hint of old school Hollywood.
Green Fedora Hat
Monsoon
The pillbox hats seen on the runway of Marc Jacobs’ AW11 show finished off his 40s interpretation perfectly, however they may not translate into real life just as well. Trade in the vintage headwear for a masculine and much more up to date fedora in a luxurious jewel tone.
Faux Fur Trimmed Evening Coat
Topshop
You’ll look like a modern day Vivian Leigh in this gorgeous evening coat. Throw on over a cocktail dress with statement shoes, leather gloves and 40s inspired jewels.
Miu Miu Embellished Crepe Dress
Net-a-porter.com
Miu Miu’s AW11 collection gave more than a nod to the fabulous 40s with the help of their exquisitely embellished cocktail dresses. Save this showstopper for a New Year’s Eve party or special event and pair with killer heels and a simple clutch.
French Connection Hair Slides
ASOS.com
Finish off 40s soft curls with these vintage inspired hair slides.
Raoul Buckle Belt
Net-a-porter.com
Add a contrasting belt like this Raoul leather one to a skirt suit or high waisted trousers to show off that wasp waist.
White Blouse
Zara
Teamed with wide leg trousers or a pencil skirt this blouse will add ladylike charm to you look.
Marc by Marc Jacobs Suede Shoes
Matches
These gorgeous Marc by Marc Jacobs heels hone 40s glamour with their black suede court shape, combined with a modern contrasting gold heel.
Full Length Coat
Reiss
Push the sleeves up on this 40s maxi coat and layer up with long leather gloves and fur cuffs.
Chloé Wide-Leg Silk Pants
Net-a-porter.com
The 40s isn’t all about pencil skirts and tea dresses, channel screen legend Marlene Dietrich in fluid, wide-leg trousers for a modern, masculine edge.
MSGM Lamb Skin Glove
Farfetch.com
These leather lamb skin gloves will turn up the glamour of a 40s look and keep hands toasty too.
Jeanetta Burgundy Leather Clutch
Whistles
A ladylike look needs a ladylike bag. With its vintage-esque T-bar clasp this Whistles clutch brings the glamour of the 40s in to the 21t Century.
Brocade Detail Collar
Zara
Paired with a classic black cashmere knit, this sweet embellished collar will add a 40s edge to your existing wardrobe.
