1950s Child's Costumes
The 1950s were a decade of distinctive American style. From greasers to sock-hop queens, many popular looks from the '50s translate well into costumes for kids today. When deciding on a 1950s costume for your child, take inspiration from classic music, movies and television shows set during the decade, including "I Love Lucy" and "Grease."
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Little Greaser
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A greaser costume is a simple-to-make look for young boys inspired by John Travolta's costume in the movie "Grease." You may already have the basics for this look -- jeans, a white t-shirt and black shoes -- in your closet. Fold the jeans up to create a cuff and reveal a pair of bright white socks. Roll up the sleeves of a white t-shirt and use markers to create a heart-with-arrow tattoo on your child's arm with "Mom" written in the middle. Finish by combing wet hair back with a generous dollop of hair gel and let dry for the greaser look. For a costume that works well in colder climates, add a leather biker jacket or satin bowling jacket.
1950s Waitress
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A great costume for little girls, the 1950s waitress is an instantly recognizable look. For the base of this costume, use a basic short-sleeved, knee-length dress or a t-shirt and matching skirt in a light pastel color like pink or blue. Cut cuffs for the sleeves and a collar for the shirt out of white felt and attach with hot glue. Purchase a white apron that attaches at the waist, or cut your own out of white felt. Add a name tag with a classic '50s waitress name like "Flo," and glue a few lightweight items like a plastic mug and plate to a tray for your little waitress to carry.
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Buddy Holly
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Buddy Holly made the '50s-nerd look cool, and a costume inspired by him works well for young boys. The base of this costume is a pair of black dress pants and white button-down shirt. Visit a thrift store to purchase an inexpensive plaid blazer, keeping in mind that the fit doesn't have to be perfect. Add a skinny black tie and thick black-rimmed glasses to complete the look. For added pizazz, look for suede shoes in a bright color of red, green or blue.
I Love Lucy
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Lucille Ball's title character in the long-running TV show "I Love Lucy" makes for an adorable throwback costume for young girls. Lucy's iconic red "updo" is a must for this look, so if your child doesn't have red hair, purchase a Lucy wig at a costume shop. Any full-skirted dress will work for this look, along with a white apron that attaches at the waist. Add pearls and bright red lipstick to finish the look. Consider writing "I Love Lucy" on the apron in a glitter pen.
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