1940s Cherry Red Cotton Shirtwaist Dress with Diamanté Buttons

1940s Cherry Red Cotton Shirtwaist Dress with Diamanté Buttons

Bold, timeless, and full of 1940s charm, this cherry red cotton shirtwaist dress is a classic mid-century piece with effortless day-to-evening appeal. Crafted in soft, breathable rayon, it features delicate gathers at the shoulders and yoke, a beautifully full pleated skirt, and a matching belt to cinch the waist.

The standout detail? Sparkling diamanté buttons that add just the right amount of glamour to this otherwise utility-inspired silhouette. With a sharp collar and turned-up cuffs, it perfectly blends smart tailoring with feminine flair.

Features

• Era: 1940s

• Material: Lightweight rayon

• Colour: Cherry red

• Details: Gathers at shoulders and back, pleated skirt, matching belt

• Fastening: Front diamanté buttons

• Sleeves: Three-quarter length with buttoned cuffs

• Style: Classic shirtwaist silhouette

Measurements

Bust: 41”

Waist: 28”

Hips: 42”

Length: 44” plus 1” hem

Condition

Very good condition with only a few minor flaws and some wear to the back of the belt as pictured.

Why You’ll Love It

A striking example of 1940s daywear, this dress has all the hallmarks of wartime elegance: strong structure, practical comfort, and subtle glamour. Pair with heeled brogues for an authentic vintage look or dress it down with flats and a basket bag for warm-weather ease.

Add this timeless red beauty to your wardrobe and browse more original 1940s dresses in our collection today.

 
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This garment is available to purchase with or without dress shields. These clever little contraptions have been made by our seamstress to an original 1940s pattern and can be simply attached to your garment by tack stitching at the corners of the underarm seam, pinning (we wouldn’t recommend that, it hurts if it goes wrong, so if you try this, it is at your own risk only) or inserting tiny poppers. They then stand ready to absorb any sweat and body odours as needed and you can simply detach and launder them instead of your garment, saving you a fortune in dry cleaning bills.

They are equally suitable for suits, blazers and dresses and come in pure white cotton.

They are universally sized and super easy to use even for a sewing novice as only a couple of tiny stitches are required at each side to secure them.

We sell Dress Shields as a standalone item or at a discount if you purchase them with a garment. We will select the appropriate type to match the garment you have purchased.