1950s Style

Without doubt, my favorite fashion era is the 1950s. The fitted bodices and flowing skirts, heels and sexy (if not always comfortable) undergarments truly fascinate me. Since I will be working my way through the 1950's pattern book, I thought a short primer on 50's fashion might be in order.

The classic 1950s shape was the hourglass, i.e. Ava Gardner, Sophia Loren, and Raquel Welch. The look was most definitely sensual but, in my opinion, infinitely more realistic than later fashions (as a general rule, I don't trust any fashion that demands a woman be stick-thin to be stylish).







During the war, clothing had to be simple and fussing over one's appearance was impractical. However, after the war ended, women wanted pretty, feminine frocks and flowing skirts quickly replaced the utilitarian look of wartime clothes. The "New Look", which actually began in 1947, was a radical change for women used to rationing.

Wiggle dresses also became popular and other new trends included the button-up sweater with a simple neckline, the trapeze dress, the petticoat, and the swing coat. The swing coat was ideal because it not only fashionably covered the full skirts of the time but also the high post war pregnancy rate. Givenchy created a Parisian style dress, termed the "Sack", and began the trend of straighter-waist dresses while Chanel created her now classic suit.

Chanel accessorized many of her designs with pearls. Hats were also popular in the 1950's. The pillbox hat, first introduced by Balenciaga and later worn by Jackie Kennedy, became one of the trendiest accessories of the decade. Gloves, brooches, fur trim and adorned collars were also extremely fashionable.

Recovering from World War II brought a change to America and this was reflected in the fashions of this decade. Not only were the 1950's important in history, but they also greatly transformed the face of fashion in America.

Readers, do you have a favorite fashion era?