Five 1940s things to brighten your day

1. Red lipstick & nail varnish. Is there anything better than a bright red lip or a glossy red manicure? Not to a vintage girl! The color red has an amazing invigorating and uplifting effect. In fact, the signature 1940s shade Victory Red was created with just that very purpose in mind. Catching a glimpse of a cherry red lip in the mirror or those little ruby jewels on your fingertips while you cook, clean, sew, write, or whatever else you have planned, will brighten your day.

2. Handcrafts. A simple handcraft like knitting, sewing, or darning is a low cost activity that taps into the vintage make do and mend mentality of the wartime. It can also provide hours of entertainment - I enjoy working on a small project like knitting a pair of socks or a scarf that I can finish quickly for a little productivity boost. The movements of knit, purl over and over actually become quite meditative and a great way to focus your mind and relieve stress. 

3. Radio shows.  By 1940, radio shows had become so popular that over 80% of Americans had a radio at home; this era became known as the golden age of radio. With so many shows available, there was a little something for everyone - either fictional serialized dramas and spooky mysteries, or nonfiction topics such as history, cooking, comedy hours, or big band and swing concerts. Websites like Old Radio World and the 1940s Radio Station have preserved many of these radio shows for listeners even today. 

4. Hair flowers. As the morale of the 1940s was low, personal presentation was of utmost importance. To help keep spirits high, women were not only encouraged to present themselves beautifully, but also to bring beauty to others. The hair flower trend was all the rage in the 1940s as a simple way to add glamour, femininity, and a touch of whimsy to your appearance, especially as clothing production and affordability was low. Hair flowers, often made of rayon or silk, could add a pop of color to an outfit and also camouflage any imperfections in your hairstyle.

5. A strong cup of tea. Due to wartime, tea rations were scaled back to 2oz per adult per week, which averages out to around three cups a day. From 1942 onward, children received no tea allowance, and the elderly were granted an extra ration beginning in 1944. Unlike fine tea which is meant to be enjoyed plain, builders teas were created to be strong, brisk, and hold up to accompanying cream and sugar as a pick me up. Celebrate the end of 1940s wartime by brewing yourself a strong cup to fuel you through the day - with cream? Sugar? One lump or two?

— TYG