Men trying on utility clothes with austerity regulations during WW2.In 1942 and 1943, the Board of T
Men trying on utility clothes with austerity regulations during WW2.In 1942 and 1943, the Board of Trade created further regulationson clothing, affecting both Utility and non-Utility clothing. Theirpurpose was to save labour and materials, and minimize manufacturingcosts.Some of the most unpopular austerity regulations applied to men’sclothing. Suits could only be single-breasted, not double-breasted,and lapels had to be within a certain size. The number of pocketswas restricted, and trouser turn-ups were forbidden. This lastmeasure was particularly unpopular, and many men got around theproblem by buying too-long clothing and getting them altered at home. Men’s shirt lengths were restricted and double cuffs were banned.The austerity regulations saved about 5 million square metres ofcotton per year. Zip fasteners and elastic waistbands were banned,so braces were worn instead. Elastic was in very short supply duringthe war, and few garments were allowed to use it (one example beingwomen’s knickers). -- source link
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