The forties and early fifties are favorite fashion eras of mine and the suits from that time are delectable!

You can’t beat 1940 – 1960 for lovely tailoring and flattering fit when it comes to women’s suits. This photo is a bit dark, but I hope that you can see the detailing on the jacket. So many garments from that time have these beautiful elements, and I’m sure that this one was an off-the-rack choice.

I’d love to be able to go to a nearby shop or department store and know that I could always find lovely, well-made clothing in a moderate price range, with careful assistance from the staff. Our grandmothers, at least in North America and Europe, usually could.

Of course, in cultures where expert tailor shops abounded, such as in parts of eastern Asia, gorgeous custom-made clothing was the norm and, maybe, still is.

Ah, what luxury.