what to wear to a fifties party

2 min read 26-12-2024

The 1950s were a decade of iconic fashion, and recreating that look for a themed party is both fun and rewarding. Whether you're aiming for pin-up glamour, rockabilly rebellion, or classic Americana, this guide will help you nail the perfect 1950s ensemble.

Defining Your 1950s Style: Beyond the "Grease" Look

The 1950s weren't a monolithic style era. Different subcultures and trends existed. Consider what vibe you want to embody:

1. Classic 1950s Elegance:

Think: Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly. Polished, sophisticated, and ladylike.
Clothing: A-line dresses, full skirts, tailored cardigans, pencil skirts, simple blouses.
Colors: Pastels, muted tones, navy, black, red.
Accessories: Pearl necklaces, classic pumps, gloves, a simple handbag.

2. Rockabilly Rebel:

Think: Betty Page, early Elvis. Edgy, playful, and a bit rebellious.
Clothing: Bandana prints, leather jackets, capri pants, high-waisted jeans, fitted tops.
Colors: Bold reds, black, white, and other contrasting colors.
Accessories: Bandanas, cat-eye sunglasses, saddle shoes, boots, statement jewelry.

3. Pin-Up Girl Glamour:

Think: Bettie Page, vintage calendars. Sultry, flirty, and undeniably attractive.
Clothing: Halter dresses, sweetheart necklines, polka dots, playful prints, fitted silhouettes.
Colors: Red, white, bright pink, turquoise.
Accessories: Red lipstick, victory rolls, bold earrings, high heels.

Key Elements of a 1950s Outfit:

Regardless of your chosen sub-style, certain elements are crucial for nailing that authentic 1950s look:

The Dress: The quintessential 1950s garment. A-line dresses, swing dresses, and full skirts are your best bets. Look for details like cinched waists, petticoats for extra volume (especially with circle skirts), and fun prints.
The Hair: Victory rolls, bouffants, and perfectly styled waves are iconic 1950s hairstyles. Consider a vintage-inspired updo or a glamorous curl set. If you're not comfortable styling your hair yourself, many salons offer vintage hair services.
The Shoes: Classic pumps, saddle shoes, or even sleek Mary Janes. The heel height depends on your comfort and chosen style.
The Accessories: Details matter! Consider pearl necklaces, cat-eye sunglasses, gloves, and a cute handbag. Jewelry should be simple but elegant – think delicate chains, pearl earrings, or a simple brooch.
The Makeup: A classic 1950s makeup look features a defined eyebrow, a winged eyeliner, and red lipstick. Don't be afraid to experiment with different shades of lipstick to match your outfit.

Putting it All Together: Outfit Ideas

Classic 1950s Look: A teal A-line dress with a white cardigan, pearl necklace, and classic pumps. Add a small clutch for a sophisticated touch.

Rockabilly Chic: High-waisted black jeans, a red fitted top, a leather jacket, saddle shoes, and a red bandana.

Pin-Up Glamour: A polka-dot halter dress, red lipstick, victory rolls, and bold earrings. Finish the look with cat-eye sunglasses and high heels.

Where to Find 1950s Clothing:

Vintage Stores: The ultimate source for authentic 1950s garments.
Online Retailers: Many online stores specialize in vintage-inspired clothing.
Thrift Stores: You can often find hidden gems in thrift stores.
Etsy: A great place to find handmade and vintage clothing.

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and express your personal style. With a little creativity, you can easily recreate the iconic looks of the 1950s and have a fantastic time at your party!