Call me crazy, call me zany or simply call me metaphysically inclined. I have always had a sneaking suspicion that in my past lives — I envision two of them, darling — I was a regal sweetheart with a fabulous sense of style.

Oh, and it shouldn’t surprise you that each of my previous cycles on Earth were in equally wonderful eras: Lifetime #1: the European 1750s (I suspect I was a fling of Herr Mozart’s) and Lifetime #2: the legendary American 1940s.

As the title of this article implies, we’re going to focus on the latter, today. And, because I’m ordaining myself as Miseducated’s 40s guru (hey, I lived the life – wink!), I’m going to share with you little ways to incorporate that style into our fresh and fabulous 21st century.

Before we get started, let me say this: Invest in vintage
Kind of a no-brainer. But really, unless you have an air of authenticity about you then you won’t be taken very seriously! Hit up your local flea market, antique store, E-Bay or even Goodwill and you’re bound to find some goodies for a bargain.

Style Tip #1: Hats and Hair

After you’ve styled your hair appropriately (check out YouTube for some great hair tutorials, like this easy one), literally top everything off with a 40s inspired hat. All sorts of hats were worn back in the day, so it’ll be easy to find a type that suits your fancy! I prefer small hats with a flock of feathers or a tiny, off-to-the-side veil! You’ll be in heaven with all the colors, shapes and sizes there are to choose from!

Style Tip #2: Hot Bod, Hot Dress!

The classic 40s dress is characterized by a cinched waist and flowy bottom half. Polka-dots are a guaranteed hit! Try shopping for some great dresses at Viva La Vintage, Dorotheas Closet Vintage, or Damn Good Vintage. No need to spend tons of money, I’ve found a whollup of pretty numbers on eBay and at Goodwill.

Style Tip #3: Clutch, please!

It’s important to have a purse to carry around, even when you’re prancing in your 40s gear. I mean, really, where else would we keep our lipgoss, cell-phone and identification? A pocket just won’t do! The perfect accessory to your outfit is a sweet little clutch and lucky for you, those are easy to find! Choose a shade that sets the tone you’re after! Roarin’ red? Fabulous! Sparkly sequins? Oh yeah!

Style Tip #4: Such a pretty face!

When it comes to dolling up your face, keep these in mind: luscious, fake lashes will take you far; outline your lips with a pretty shade of red and color them in (be sure to accentuate the “V” on your top lip); wear a rosey-posey blush that’s only subtle enough. Don’t be afraid to have fun with your makeup.

Style Tip #5: Gloves keep your hands clean!

You know they do! They also keep you looking refined, stylish and oh-so 40-licious! I like to keep things pristine with a stark, crisp white. You may be more inclined to roll up a pair of bright yellow duds. Whatever makes you happy is fine by me.

Style Tip #6: Cat-eye glasses

Whether you sport sunglasses or a pair of faux reading glasses, make them snazzy! Try a rhinestone-enhanced, golden cat-eye. Or maybe a subtle black is more your type. Either way, you’ll make a (smart) statement!

Style Tip #7: For the bold: Cigarette holder

I don’t condone smoking (keep your lungs happy, ladies), but a stationary cigarette in a pretty cigarette holder is really kind of drool-worthy. Purchase one for under $5 here and pretend you’re Audrey at the ball.

Bonus

40s slang to slip into your vocabulary. *
• Flat Tire – A dull witted, insipid, disappointing date.
• Cat’s Meow – Something splendid or stylish
• Heebie-Jeebies – The jitters.
• Ossified – a drunk person.
• Scram – Ask someone to leave immediately.
• Whoopee – To have a good time.

As in: Scram, ossified flat tire! You give me the heebie-jeebies when all I want is a cat’s meow whoopee!

*To be used only when employing 40s-inspired style.

About the author

Wendy Rose Gould

Writer, singer and photographer. Short and sweet.