How Britain managed a wardrobe crisis during the Second World War
In short: Between 1941 and 1949, clothing became a scarce commodity in Britain. This 1943 government film, introduced by curator Michelle Kirby, captures the official campaign to keep the nation dressed by repairing and repurposing old garments.
As the Second World War strained resources, the British government implemented strict rationing on new clothing starting in June 1941. To manage the shortage, the Ministry of Information launched the 'Make Do and Mend' initiative in 1943.
This campaign encouraged citizens to extend the life of their wardrobes through creative repair and reuse. The archival film serves as a humorous look at how the public was urged to adapt their habits to support the war effort, a practice that remained necessary until rationing finally concluded in 1949.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Clothes Rationing in Britain: Make Do and Mend | Archive Film Favourites
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