I have these in order of importance by category. Category 1 is the most important to find and buy. Category 2 are those helpful little things that are nice to have, and Category 3 are the little extras that are not too necessary but are oh so fun! Category 1 is the bare basics and will get you by at your first event if the weather is pleasant. If you are attending an event and the weather is going to be cold, then you will need a coat. I have added coats into a Category 3 because a period winter coat can be hard to locate, very expensive and since most events are held in the warmer months of the year, they are often not too necessary.
Category 1
Dress OR Blouse/ Skirt
Shoes
Seamed Nylon Stockings OR Cotton Stockings or Socks
Scarf
Basket or Purse*
Category 1, if you are getting started, choose a plain dress or else a blain skirt and blouse combination. Simplicity is your friend and goal. Shoes, you will need footwear so choose a good plain shoe like a brogue or a simple pump. I would recommend black or brown because they are good simple colors to start building a wardrobe off of. Nylons were seamed and are period for a German look. Other options are a cotton stocking or an ankle sock. A scarf large enough to cover your head and tie under the chin can hide a lot of sin and is a cheaper and just as period option when compared to a hat. A scarf under the chin can hide a non-period hair style. If you are wandering around and do not have a "home" for the event, then invest in a period basket or purse to carry your belongings with you.
Category 2
Tailored Suit Jacket OR Tailored Two Piece Skirt Suit
Additional blouses
Hats
Gloves
Knit wear like sweaters, mittens, etc.
Under Garments : Bras, Girdles, Garter Belts, Slips, Etc.
Category 2, here we can build on Category 1 and also add in a few more pieces. A tailored suit jacket can be worn over a dress or blouse/ skirt outfit. If possible, a tailored two piece skirt suit is very period and very chic. With a suit, invest in additional blouses. Hats are an investment and since they come on so many different styles, they require a LOT of research to make sure you are getting a truly period appropriate hat. Gloves are a nice extra accessory and make a look extra polished. Knit wear can be made at home, period patterns are abundant, or you will have to source and buy. buying period knit wear can be tricky because it can be expensive for good condition items.
Underwear . . . This is a hot topic (no, not in * that* way . . . ) because underwear can make 40s clothes hang better on the body and make then fit like they ought to but is not visible. Underwear really is important for an authentic look but since it is something that will not be visible except to you, it is up to you if you want to source and wear it. Personally, I do wear it. Not only at events but in my everyday attire too. Period underpinnings/ underwear really does make a difference as far as wearing the clothes goes and it also encourages better posture.
Category 3
Jewelry
Winter Coat, Winter Boots, Heavy Winter Stockings*
Evening Wear
Fur Accessories
Cosmetics
Category 3, these items are those luxurious little extras. An exception is the winter coat. If you are attending cold events, then look for these ASAP, a period winter coat is an investment but can be a life saver if the event is cold enough. The items in this category are frivolous (except the winter wear!!) and are not needed to have a well-rounded, period appropriate impression.
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