LIFE Magazine – July 8 1946

The July 8, 1946 issue of LIFE Magazine features model Jean Welch wearing a Basque shirt on its bright, summery fashion cover. Published during the first full summer after World War II, the issue offers a vivid look at an America shifting rapidly from wartime production toward new technology, fashion, entertainment and postwar life.

Inside, LIFE showcases the latest U.S. experimental “superplanes” and follows the enormous Howard Hughes flying boat as it is moved piece by piece toward the harbor. Other major features examine the University of Chicago’s historic plutonium laboratory, the growing use—and limitations—of DDT, and the construction and economic impact of the Garrison Dam. Entertainment coverage includes Broadway star Ethel Merman and the movie Easy to Wed, while additional features visit a Princeton reunion, Greenwich Village sculptors and the Washington Regatta.

Inside This Issue

• Howard Hughes Flying Boat — LIFE follows construction and movement of Hughes’ enormous experimental aircraft.
• America’s New Superplanes — A look at advanced U.S. aircraft emerging from wartime aviation technology.
• Plutonium Laboratory — The University of Chicago laboratory where historic research into the man-made element used in atomic bombs took place.
• Ethel Merman — LIFE profiles the celebrated Broadway star and “queen of musical comedy.”
• DDT — An examination of the powerful new insecticide, its promise and its limitations.
• Garrison Dam — Coverage of the massive Missouri River project and its effect on surrounding land values.
• Little Girl Fashions — Postwar women’s fashion embraces youthful styles and silhouettes.
• Easy to Wed — LIFE’s Movie of the Week looks at the MGM comedy.
• Washington Regatta — Cornell competes in the major collegiate crew race.
• The Clay Club & Princeton Reunion — LIFE visits Greenwich Village sculptors and follows alumni returning to Princeton.

Original LIFE Magazines are authentic issues published between 1936 and 2000.