The 1950s fashion era continues to captivate designers and fashion enthusiasts with its timeless elegance and iconic style. Blending classic elements with the trends of the time, it truly represents the retro fashion movement. In this article, we delve into the most influential fashion styles of the 50s, showcasing the romantic hourglass shapes and postwar silhouettes that defined the era.
Rediscovering the 1950s Fashion Influences
The fashion of the 50s marked a significant departure from the utilitarian silhouettes of the previous decade. New designers such as Christian Dior, Pierre Balmain, Cristóbal Balenciaga, and Hubert de Givenchy emerged, transforming the landscape of the fashion industry. They created luxurious and hyper-feminine looks that would establish their brands as the epitome of elegance.
50s ‘New Look’ Dresses - thevou.com
The “New Look” introduced by Christian Dior in the 1950s was revolutionary. With sloped shoulders, a raised bustline, and a voluminous padded skirt, it redefined femininity. Despite facing backlash from the feminist movement, the dress blurred the lines between daytime clothing and eveningwear. Dior's iconic style was quickly embraced by women, and many popular clothing brands of the time created their own adaptations of the "New Look."
To embrace the 1950s style, opt for pencil dresses in solid colors or floral bustier dresses with sweetheart necklines. Embrace the hourglass shape with corset detail blazer dresses, adding a modern twist to the retro aesthetic.
The Timeless Charm of 50s Skirt Suits
50s Skirt Suits - thevou.com
Figure-flattering full A-line skirts and glove-fitted pencil skirts paired with tailored peplum jackets became the quintessential 50s fashion uniform. This silhouette was popularized by haute couture designers like Dior, Balenciaga, Givenchy, and Chanel, making it accessible to women of all economic backgrounds.
To recreate a modern 1950s fashion look, choose blazers with corsetry that flare out over the hips, creating the iconic hourglass shape. Complete the ensemble with a tight-fitted skirt and a cinched waist, perfecting the classic 50s silhouette.
Embracing Comfort and Functionality with 1950s Pedal Pushers
Pedal Pushers in 1950s Fashion - thevou.com
Ready-to-wear women's trousers became popular during the 50s, providing comfort and functionality. Pedal pushers, originally worn by cyclists, were tight trousers that became a wardrobe staple for active women and teenagers. Audrey Hepburn often sported this smart casual look, pairing monochromatic pedal pushers with tucked-in blouses. Flats and saddle shoes were popular choices to complete the ensemble, adding a touch of sophistication.
The Rebellious Beatnik Style
50s Beatnik Fashion - thevou.com
As a new culture emerged in the late 1940s to mid-1960s, known as the "Beatnik" culture, fashion took on a more streamlined and simplified aesthetic. Contrary to Dior's "New Look," the Beatnik style featured dark-colored, straight-line silhouettes. Berets, straight-leg cigarette pants, black turtleneck sweaters, striped shirts, T-shirts, and vests became iconic symbols of this rebellious fashion movement.
Even in modern times, designers like Fendi and Dior continue to draw inspiration from the Beatnik style, showcasing roll-neck shirts, wide-leg trousers, and black jackets reminiscent of the 50s.
Embracing Feminine Sex Appeal with 50s Pinup Girls
Pinup Girls of 50s Fashion - thevou.com
The fashion of the 50s paid homage to feminine sex appeal, drawing inspiration from Hollywood stars like Elizabeth Taylor, Natalie Wood, and Marilyn Monroe. The pinup girl aesthetic combined elements of Burlesque, Rockabilly, and Old Hollywood Glamour. Today, the modern interpretation of this classic look relies on the same principles.
To achieve a pinup girl style, start with fit-and-flare dresses or poodle skirts, embodying the essence of the 50s. Mix low scoop necklines, bustier tops, and dress-like skirted swimsuits to create a glamorous and sensual look. Complete the ensemble with classic stiletto shoes, reminiscing the fashion revolution brought by the 4-inch heels of the 50s.
The Allure of 50s Pencil Skirts
50s Pencil Skirts - thevou.com
Grace Kelly's iconic lime pencil skirt in 'Rear Window' perfectly represents the various styles that dominated the 50s fashion scene. Christian Dior's H-line collection introduced the basic pencil skirt silhouette, emphasizing straight lines and the waist.
Pencil skirts were often paired with tucked-in sleeveless tops. Variations of the pencil skirt look included sweaters and chiffon or silk neck scarves. To create a modern 1950s fashion ensemble, combine mid-shin-length skirts with colorful cinching belts and fitted turtlenecks. Three-quarter cropped sleeve jackets or casual jackets with detachable collars and patch pockets add a contemporary twist to the retro aesthetic.
Making a Statement with 50s Large Brimmed Hats
50s Large Brimmed Hats - thevou.com
The 1950s saw the emergence of unique large-brimmed hat adaptations from popular clothing brands. Adorned with pins, feathers, beads, or ribbons, these glamorous toppers became eveningwear staples. Made from straw with border prints, these large brimmed hats drew inspiration from film stars of the time.
The Timeless Appeal of 50s Rockabilly Fashion
50s Rockabilly Fashion - thevou.com
Rockabilly, one of the earliest styles of rock and roll music, had a distinct fashion style. Influenced by artists like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Buddy Holly, the 50s rockabilly style became an iconic look for generations to come.
To recreate the perfect 50s rockabilly style, pair a high-waisted pencil skirt with a knotted button-up shirt. Complete the look with a red lip and dark eye makeup. Another option is to wear tight cigarette pants with a chest pocket tucked-in T-shirt, embodying the rebellious spirit of the rockabilly movement.
Discovering the Greaser Style of the 50s
The Greaser Style in the 1950s Fashion - thevou.com
The casual styles of 1950s fashion took various forms, with rockabilly and pin-up influencers leading the way. Inspired by movie stars like Marlon Brando and James Dean, the Greaser subculture aimed to recreate a movie star look with a dash of motorcycle-riding flavor.
To achieve the perfect 50s fashion style, grab a denim or motorcycle leather jacket and pair it with dark-washed denim. Roll up the leg, add a chiffon scarf, and complete the look with a pair of casual shoes. Alternatively, opt for tight, cropped capris or pedal pushers styled with fitted T-shirts, creating a uniform-like ensemble that exudes timeless cool.
Celebrating the Poodle Skirt Trend
1950s Poodle Skirt - thevou.com
The poodle skirt trend emerged as one of the most fun and creative 1950s fashion trends . Originally worn by teens, these felt circle skirts featuring an applique of a pink poodle on a silver leash became a symbol of teenage fashion. Young women styled these skirts in various ways, pairing them with blouses, tops, sweaters, scarves, and gloves.
While embroidered poodle skirts may be harder to come by today, you can customize plain felt circle skirts by adding embroidery available on platforms like Amazon. This playful and flirtatious 50s fashion look continues to resonate with fashion aficionados interested in the vintage aesthetic.
Conclusion: Revisiting the Golden Age of Fashion
The 1950s fashion decade was truly the golden age of fashion, with Marilyn Monroe's "silly little dress" subway moment and Audrey Hepburn's curve-enhancing waist belt capturing the essence of the era. This decade witnessed the rise of iconic fashion designers and the genesis of modern fashion houses that continue to draw inspiration from the casual styles of the 50s.
With natural waists, hourglass figures, and exaggerated hips at the forefront, the 50s fashion sphere epitomized elegance and sophistication. From the "New Look" dresses to pencil skirts and large brimmed hats, the 1950s left an indelible mark on the fashion world.
Now, it's your turn to share your favorite 50s fashion styles! Which trend resonates with you the most? Let us know in the comments below. And if we missed any 1950s fashion trends that you think deserve mention, please share your insights. We always value your feedback and use it to improve and update our articles.
