A Blast from the Past: Relive the Fashionable 50s and its Iconic Trends

The 1950s era was undoubtedly an exciting decade in history, marked by post-war affluence, booming economies, and an optimistic outlook for the future. It was a time when clothes were more than just essential items; they were symbols of hope and liberation.

Introduction to 1950s Fashion

The 1950s fashion was a stark contrast to the drab clothes that defined the 1940s wartime era. It was a time when women started wearing colorful dresses with fuller skirts, cinched waists and voluminous ruffles. Men, on the other hand, rocked the classic suits and hats that have since been referred to as ‘mad men style.’

The fashion trends were inspired by post-war prosperity and the rise of Hollywood. Women looked up to their favorite movie stars for fashion inspiration, while men aspired to be as suave as Clark Gable or Cary Grant. The 50s fashion revolutionized the way people thought about clothes, making it an integral part of pop culture.

Hairstyles of the 50s

The 1950s were also an era defined by unique hairstyles. Women traded in their practical updos for more voluminous and intricate styles. The iconic beehive was born, and the ‘poodle cut’, which featured short curls, became a favorite among many women.

Men went all out with their hairstyles, too, opting for slicked-back looks, and pompadours. Elvis Presley is famous for his greased-back hair look that has since been referenced as the ‘Elvis hairstyle.’

50s Women’s Fashion

The 50s women’s fashion was characterized by full dresses or skirts that flared out from the waistline. This style was called the ‘new look’ and was popularized by Christian Dior in 1947. The new look was a feminine take on fashion, which emphasized the hourglass silhouette, with waist-cinching belts and petticoats.

The popular fabrics included cotton, wool, and silk, with floral patterns and polka dots being among the most popular motifs. Women also accessorized with gloves, scarves, and headbands.

50s Men’s Fashion

The 50s men’s fashion was characterized by fitting suits with straight-legged pants and narrow waistbands. The ‘mad men style’ was all the craze, with men’s accessories such as hats, cufflinks, and tiepins playing a significant role in men’s fashion.

Men embraced bold colors such as green, purple, and pink, while tweed and herringbone patterns were also popular. Elvis Presley was one of the most influential fashion icons of the 50s, and his ‘jailhouse rock’ style is still celebrated today.

Conclusion

The 1950s were a thrilling decade in history, with fashion playing a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of the time. The iconic trends of the 50s continue to linger to this day, with fashion designers continually referencing them in their designs.

While the 50s fashion was characterized by unique hairstyles, bold colors, and intricate designs, it was ultimately a reflection of the times. It was a way for people to express themselves, celebrate life and embrace a new era of prosperity and optimism.