It's a pretty pattern, isn't it? I scanned this pattern and started listing it in the shop (believe me, if I had been anything even close to a 32 bust, it would have stayed in my collection.) As I was tippitty typing away, copying the description on the back of the envelope into my listing, I noticed this:
"...made of scarves..." Amazing!
The pattern pieces for Style II were actually designed to be made from two 25" square scarves!
Rationing was in full effect in the US and Canada until 1946, and until 1954 in the UK, so it would only be logical that the pattern companies would come up with ways to ensure that women had new garments while staying within the very strict confines of rationing.
I've got a number of Forties patterns to list over the next little while and I'm definitely going to keep my eyes open for some more that fit into the "Make Do and Mend" credo.
xo
Elle