Fashion of the 1950s: Costumes and Styles

The Look of the 1950s

The 1950s was a decade of classic style and elegance. This era in fashion was marked by a strong emphasis on tailoring and structure, with a focus on classic silhouettes such as pencil skirts, tailored trousers, and blouses. The 1950s also saw the emergence of the iconic “poodle skirt” – a pleated skirt with an embroidered poodle design on the hem. The look was often completed with saddle shoes and bobby socks.

The Influence of Cinema

The 1950s was a time when movie stars and celebrities had a huge influence on fashion. One of the most iconic looks of the 1950s was the “sophisticated” look of Grace Kelly, which was characterized by neat suits, dressy blouses, and a pulled-together look. This style was often seen on the silver screen and was quickly adopted by many women.

The Rise of Casual Wear

Although the 1950s was a decade of glamour and elegance, the decade also saw the emergence of more casual styles. Jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers began to become more popular as people adopted a more laid-back attitude towards their clothing. This was particularly true in the United States, where the rise of rock and roll music and a more casual lifestyle ushered in a new era of fashion.

The Return of the Suit

In the late 1950s, the suit began to make a comeback as a fashion statement. Suits were usually made of wool or tweed, and were often worn with a dress shirt and tie. This look was popularized by stars such as James Dean and became a symbol of sophistication and style.

Hairstyles of the 1950s

In the 1950s, hairstyles were often styled to create a neat and polished look. Women often wore their hair in tight curls or in a classic updo. Men had a variety of hairstyles, from the famous “ducktail” to shorter, slicked-back styles.

Men’s Fashion

Men’s fashion in the 1950s was marked by a focus on neatness and structure. Suits were popular, and were often paired with a dress shirt and tie. Denim jeans and t-shirts also began to become more popular, particularly among young people.

Accessories of the 1950s

Accessories were an important part of 1950s fashion. Women often wore hats, gloves, and handbags to complete their look. Men often wore hats, ties, and pocket squares. Other popular accessories included sunglasses, scarves, and jewelry.

Conclusion

The 1950s was a decade of classic style and sophistication. It was a time when movie stars and celebrities had a huge influence on fashion, and when the suit made a comeback as an important fashion statement. This era in fashion also saw the emergence of more casual styles, such as jeans and t-shirts, as well as the rise of accessorizing.