Rosie the Riveter was the iconic 17-year-old factory worker who inspired American women to get out of the home and into the factory during World War II. The war effort needed the women to step in and help while the men were overseas fighting in the war. That’s what they did. Women traded in their aprons for overalls and went to work. Rosie’s work outfit can be duplicated by picking up a few articles from a thrift store or from old clothes in your home
Rosie Costume 1
Start with a one-piece, fitted, blue denim jumpsuit that has long sleeves. Roll the sleeves up to expose the biceps. Tie your hair up in an Aunt Jemima bandana with the knot in the front. Try to find a red bandana with white polka dots. If you can’t find a ready-made bandana, purchase a yard of red material with white polka dots. Cut out a large triangular piece, and tie your hair up with that. Wear red lipstick and black or brown combat-style boots.
Rosie Costume 2
A short-sleeved, front-buttoning shirt is tucked into a pair of pleated, high-waisted pants (the kind that were popular in the 1940s and 1980s). Tie the hair up in a bandana of any color, and finish the Rosie the Riveter look with a pair of saddle shoes or work boots. Carry a black lunch pail.
Rosie Costume 3
This Rosie wears a blouse with the sleeves rolled up. It is tucked in to a pair of dark-colored, wide-leg pants of any color. Find a contrasting barbecue-style apron with no pictures or lettering on it and wear that on top of the outfit. Top this off with a pair of old work boots and a bandana tied around the hair. Carry a drill.
Rosie Costume 4
This Rosie wears a blouse with the sleeves rolled up. It is tucked in to a pair of dark-colored, wide-leg pants of any color. Find a contrasting barbecue-style apron with no pictures or lettering on it and wear that on top of the outfit. Top this off with a pair of old work boots and a bandana tied around the hair. Carry a drill.
