Forties and Fifties Fashion for the Stage ― With Patterns from Vintage Clothing

Forties and Fifties Fashion for the Stage provides instruction on how to recreate fashion from the 1940s and 50s that withstands the vigorous demands of theatrical stage use. This book provides historical context for the clothing and features authentic patterns taken from real vintage pieces. Forties and Fifties Fashion for the Stage demonstrates how to construct a durable costume from scratch, and how to adjust patterns to fit an individual’s measurements. The book also contains a number of "How To Fake It" chapters with advice on thrifting and how to create period fashion using today’s clothing. Both men’s and women’s fashions and patterns are featured, including formal and casual wear.

Jessica Parr is a professor at Northwestern State University of Louisiana where she teaches Costume Design and Technology. She received her BFA at the University of Nebraska and her MFA from the University of Illinois. She previously taught at Parkland College and the University of Louisiana – Monroe. She has designed and constructed costumes for theatres throughout the country including, Nebraska Repertory Theatre, Struthers Library Theatre, Dorset Theatre Festival, Barter Theatre, Illinois Shakespeare Festival, and the Santa Fe Opera.