Throughout the 1930s and early 1940s, a second influence vied with Paris couturiers as a wellspring for ideas: the American cinema. As Hollywood movies gained their popularities, general public idolized movie stars as their role models. Paris-based fashion houses were losing their power and influences in most major fashion trends during these years.
The passage highlights the growing influence of American cinema on fashion during the 1930s and early 1940s, leading to a decline in the power and influence of Paris-based fashion houses. Movie stars became popular role models for the public, influencing fashion trends away from traditional Parisian styles.