1940s Dresses  

Hundreds of vintage 1940s dresses in Exeter, with personal service and styling…  

Come and explore our exquisite boutique in Exeter, where you will find a treasure trove of vintage 1940s dresses. Our focus is not just on providing fashionable attire but also on embracing your individuality and personal style. With a wealth of experience spanning over six years, we have had the honour of dressing countless young ladies in one-of-a-kind vintage pieces.

Our collection is truly exceptional, offering something to suit every taste and preference. Our team of knowledgeable consultants is dedicated to assisting you in discovering the perfect dress that resonates with your unique style. Step into our Exeter store and allow us to guide you towards a dress that exudes confidence and leaves you looking absolutely breath-taking.

We take immense pride in our exceptional team, which is truly passionate about creating a look that reflects your individuality. The glowing feedback we receive about our dress collections and personalised customer service is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing an outstanding experience. In addition to our stunning array of dresses, we also offer a range of shoes and evening bags that perfectly complement our remarkable garments. Whether you are attending a glamorous ball, a sophisticated black-tie event, an elegant evening function, or a memorable graduation, our dresses are designed to make a lasting impression.

Take your time to peruse our collection at your leisure and allow us to help you discover the perfect ensemble that truly celebrates your unique style.

Find Your Confidence in Classic Style at Frocks in Swing Time  

Frocks in Swing Time is a boutique that exudes charm, nestled in the heart of Exeter. It offers a delightful array of vintage treasures, carefully curated to cater to all tastes. Our mission is to inspire individuals to embrace their own unique sense of style, fostering joy and self-confidence. Drawing inspiration from the timeless elegance of the 1920s, 1940s, and 1950s, our collection caters to people of all body shapes and sizes. At Frocks in Swing Time, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional, personalised customer service that harkens back to a bygone era.

As a beloved, family-owned business, our deep-rooted passion for vintage, particularly fashion, drove us to establish this enchanting store. After Hayley’s success at vintage fairs and festivals, she and Gary embarked on a new adventure, relocating to the picturesque county of Devon in 2018. Since then, our doors on Fore Street, Exeter, have been joyfully opened to welcome fellow vintage enthusiasts. We extend a warm invitation to you, inviting you to visit us and immerse yourself in an unforgettable shopping experience tailored to your individual desires, while we provide exceptional customer service that exceeds your expectations.  

A tailored shopping experience in Exeter  

Our Vintage Dresses Styles  

Throughout the 20th century, fashion trends were greatly influenced by an ever-evolving society, resulting in a multitude of style inspirations. Each passing decade introduced a distinct silhouette that resonated with people from all walks of life. It is no wonder individuals often find themselves enchanted by a specific era that aligns with their personal preferences. For example, some are irresistibly drawn to the graceful drop-waisted fashion of the 1920s, while others are captivated by the impeccably tailored garments of the 1930s. The skillful draping techniques and artistic cuts prevalent in the 1940s dresses also possess an alluring charm, just as the glamorous allure of the 1950s and the refined elegance of the early 1960s never fail to captivate.  

1940’s Dresses

When reflecting on the fashion trends of the 1940s dresses, it is only natural to envision the irresistible allure of pin-up glamour and the practical outfits worn by Land Army girls during the war. Images of floral print tea dance dresses, wedge shoes, and brogues often spring to mind, epitomising the ultra-feminine style that defined the era. However, it is important to acknowledge the ingenious techniques employed by designers who skilfully navigated the constraints of austerity guidelines.

These talented individuals expertly incorporated simple yet stunning draping techniques, introduced peplums and shoulder pads to even the most basic designs, and crafted the mesmerising Film Noir aesthetic that continues to captivate us today.

The fashion of the 1940s serves as a prime example of how external factors such as politics, culture, and social circumstances hold immense influence over trends. This decade experienced significant changes, and it is crucial to note that the now nostalgically celebrated 1940s look only represents a small fraction of this era. It was not until 1947, with Dior’s ground-breaking new look, that the fashion landscape truly shifted.  

1940s tea dress  

The 1940s were a time when the tea dress became synonymous with the era. These dresses were commonly worn to dances and featured delicate floral patterns, flared skirts, and charming puffed cap sleeves.

It’s safe to say that no other look is as closely associated with this particular decade. However, the 1940s also witnessed the rise of shirt dresses, which were not only fashionable but also highly versatile.

Another trend during this time was the transformation of 1930s dresses into more contemporary styles by adjusting the neckline to create a sweetheart shape. These adaptations added a touch of modernity to the classic designs.  

1940s Button Down Dress  

The button-front dress, much like its counterpart, the shirt-waist dress, emerged as a popular choice during the mid-20th century. Emphasising ease of wear (despite the daunting task of fastening numerous buttons), the 1940s button-front dress embodied a casual, comfortable, and laid-back style. It found favour among both young and mature women, albeit with differing preferences. For the younger generation, the allure of large, round Peter Pan collars lent a doll-like charm to their attire. In contrast, mature women gravitated towards the more traditional shirt collar style.

Adding a touch of sophistication to the otherwise informal design, there was a particularly enchanting variation with scalloped edges—a clever way to elevate the dress during the spring and summer seasons. As the decade progressed, buttons ceased to be confined to the center front of the dress. Instead, they ventured into asymmetrical or off-center placements, typically favouring the left side. Whether in contrasting shades of white or black against plain dresses, these buttons added a vibrant pop to the overall ensemble.   

Choose Frocks in Swing Time as Your go-to Shop For 1940s Dresses.

Uncover the hidden gem of Exeter’s vintage fashion scene at Frocks in Swing Time, a must-visit destination for all your retro style desires. Prepare to be transported to a bygone era as you embark on an enchanting shopping adventure, guided by our knowledgeable and attentive team. At Frocks in Swing Time, we take pride in catering to every body type and size, offering a diverse range of styles that capture the essence of the glamorous 1920s, the timeless 1940s, and the iconic 1950s. Our deep-rooted passion for vintage fashion has driven us to establish a beloved family business that has become an integral part of Exeter.

Nestled on Fore Street, our charming boutique is a testament to our unwavering dedication to providing an exceptional shopping experience. Step through our doors and be greeted with personalised attention, ensuring that every moment spent with us is filled with pure satisfaction and delight. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Frocks in Swing Time, where a treasure trove of exquisite garments awaits.

Here, you will not only find stylish clothing but also the joy and confidence that emanate from dressing in a way that reflects your unique personality. Our aim is not merely to sell fashion, but to help you discover the true essence of vintage style and allow your individuality to shine through. Do not just take our word for it; come and experience the exceptional customer service firsthand by paying a visit to our store. We eagerly await the opportunity to assist you on your journey towards uncovering your own distinctive style. 

Our Lovely Vintage Shop in Exeter