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Necessity - Many new fabrics and accessories were invented during wartime, for one simple reason: there was an urgent need for durable materials that could withstand extreme conditions.

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Military material - During the First World War, men adapted to more practical forms of clothing, which facilitated easier movement than a traditional suit.

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New fabrics -

During World War II, rationing and trade embargo meant there was a scarcity of materials usually used to make clothing. This meant that new, easily accessible options had to be created. 

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From combat to the street -

The trade of silk from Japan to its primary markets in the United States and Paris was suspended by war, meaning women's stockings were quickly becoming unavailable. 

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Aviator glasses - In the 1920s, aviators needed something to protect their eyes from damage by the sun, but without the weight and size of traditional flying goggles.

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Aviator glasses -

In 1940, American doctors in collaboration with the Italian sunglasses brand, Ray-Ban came up with the special lenses, specifically designed to stop the glare of the sun interfering with pilots' vision.

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Aviator glasses -

Today, they are a major fashion accessory and have been adapted into a number of different styles.

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Gumboots - Created in France and initially used by farmers, rubber boots were soon recognized for their resistance and impermeability, keeping feet dry from the damp and mud.

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Gumboots - This made them very useful in the trenches during the First World War. The British Army bought 2 million pairs. In Russia, they were known as "boots of socialism."

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Gumboots - Today, they are still used during rainy weather and come in many different colors. They can be a great item to complete your autumn look.

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Bomber jacket - The heavy leather jackets used by the French were shortened and adjusted to be more practical for pilots.

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Bomber jacket -

By 1917, the jackets were made with the wool lining on the inside, to keep pilots warm while they flew. As the Second World War progressed, they incorporated zippers and front pockets.

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Bomber jacket - Short jackets have been a fashion favorite since the 1980s, when jean and leather jackets were all the rage. They're considered an essential fashion item.

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Nylon - It was from this necessity that nylon was invented. It was created by a chemical company, with synthetic fibers suitable for the production of socks and parachutes.

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Nylon - Nylon became a particularly sought-after material, principally among women. In New York in 1939, nylon stockings became incredibly popular, selling 64 million units within the space of a year.

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Nylon - Today, the fabric is one of the most favored for resistance and durability, especially in the cold. It is frequently used to make jackets and sportswear.

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Belt buckles - British General Sam Browne, lost his arm in combat in India. He attached a buckle to a belt around his body and another over his shoulder to keep his sword in place. The so-called Sam Browne belt became part of military uniform.

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Belt buckles - The belt was so useful that it became a very common accessory during the 19th century. During the First World War, it was used by American soldiers, and even made it to Adolf Hitler, who was using it in 1940.

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Belt buckles - We still use belt buckles of many diferente styles today.

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Trenchcoat - Long coats were initially used to cover soldiers up to the knees, protecting them from bad weather and explosions in the trenches.

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Trenchcoat - In 1901, the British army came up with the "trenchcoat," a slightly different version that included inside pockets for maps, powder cases, and knives.

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Trenchcoat - The trenchcoat worked so well that it was copied by armies all over the world, and later became a trend among civilian populations, particularly with women. It is still seen widely today.

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Beret - The first berets were made for the French army, especially tank operators, who refused to wear hats made of wool on hot days.

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Beret - During the Second World War, they were made in various different colors depending on the army. The Nazis used dark-colored ones. Later, guerrilla fighter Che Guevara also used the accessory.

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Beret - Today they're still very popular, as they both look good and protect you from the cold.

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Satchel - This practical bag was first created for the international postal service during the First World War. There were a few different designs, the most common being made of canvas, with a strap so it could be worn across the chest.

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Satchel - In 1914, the useful bags were used for other items besides letters, including storing gas masks, weapons, and even the children of civilians caught in conflict.

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Satchel - Today, satchels and messenger bags are a staple in closets everywhere, particularly among modern urbanites.

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Overalls - Originally part of a flight suit worn by parachutists during the Second World War, the one-piece offered protection against the wind and the cold.

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Overalls - The practical design meant that they were also used by mechanics and workers during the Spanish Civil war, and were adopted as the informal uniform of the leftist forces.

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Overalls -

Today, overalls are still very fashionable, though their design has been adapted somewhat. Alongside the traditional style, you can find short versions in a plethora of fabrics.

See also: Influential fashion designers who shaped the industry

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