About Poodle Skirts
Culture is expressed through many things, one of which is clothes. Each era has its own characteristics. During the 1950s one of the main defining elements of fashion was the poodle skirt.
The 1950s were a time of breaking conservative views. Rock and roll singers like Elvis Presley influenced cultural perspectives, making them take a more liberal form. The movie industry was a fashion leader, as well. Television shows like "American Bandstand" showcased new fashions.
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Identification
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Poodle skirts were knee-length circle skirts worn over a crinoline. They were made from felt and usually had an appliqué collared animal (often a poodle) on the front, with the collar winding to the waistline. White and pink were the most common colors for a poodle skirt.
Accessories
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Poodle skirts could be worn as part of an outfit that included a cardigan, blouse, bobby socks, saddle shoes and scarf.
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History
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During World War II, more streamlined clothes became fashionable. Post-war fashions were longer and fuller.
The circle skirt was designed in the late 1940s by designer Juli Lynne Charlot. In 1947 Charlot designed a skirt consisting of a whole circle, with a felt appliqué. The skirts sold out quickly. She later executed a dog appliqué skirt line, among which the poodle became the most popular.
Popularization
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Magazines like "Vogue" and "Seventeen" would often feature a poodle skirt. More energetic changes in music helped to popularize the poodle skirt, as dancing became less conservative. This was because the poodle skirt's fullness emphasized the dancer's movements.
In the 1950s the media began to market to teens. Things like books, fashions, movies and music were aimed directly at youth. Leading into the 1950s, children's clothes styles didn't vary that much from adult clothes styles.
Considerations
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Poodle skirts were strictly teen clothing. It was improper for any woman older than a teen to wear a poodle skirt.
Significance
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Special websites supply appliqué poodles, and other animals for making poodle skirts.
Because of its popularity the poodle skirt is still marketed. They are available through costume shops. Today the skirt is not limited to just teens. There are skirts available in a full range of sizes. Patterns for making a skirt may be purchased in sizes for children to adults.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Fotosearch.com
