Question

How did fashion photography change during WW II? (site 1)

Answer 1

Answer:

Explanation:

Before the war, Paris was the fashion center of the world, and, therefore, the center of fashion photography. It bred some of the finest pioneers of the profession, such as Adolphe De Meyer. But at the end of the 30s and start of the 40s, World War II became and the world of fashion changed completely.

Firstly, fashion itself became secondary in the world where everything was changing and in which materials were sacred. Second, Paris became secluded from the US and UK after France was occupied by the Nazis. Vouge, the most important magazine for fashion photography, was even shut down for a while in 1940. Therefore, the US has to “take care” of fashion on its own. Fashion photography started to look more "American", and on top of the game came some of the US photographers, such as Cecil Beaton and Lee Miller. They were both war photographers as well as fashion photographers, and one can notice the influence of war themes on their work.

Fashion photography of this time features women in uniforms, as well as women in more ‘independent’ roles compared to before. They were not that glamourous, but they were proud, spunky, and feisty looking. Fashion they are wearing during the time of war was usually simpler than before and after. The materials were rougher, as the goods had to be limited for the war effort. Women on these phots wear pants more often, and skirts and dresses they wear are more practical for work and the trying times. Models were often placed to seem as if they were doing something for the war effort, like helping the soldiers, entertaining them, or even working.

After the war, some of the fashion photography kept the rage created during these times. Photographers were making pieces that would look more documentary and raw, while still being fashionable and glamourous. At the time, fashion photography would resemble cinematic takes, women on the move, and in motion, which was also a heritage from the WWII times when all the photography had to have these qualities. Women in the fashion photography post-WWII period were more modern and independent than ever before.