Clothes Worn in the 1950s
The 1950s were the era of Christian Dior's "new look," where the designer unveiled feminine silhouettes in his designs with fitted waists and full or straight skirts, according to the Challenge Fashion website (challengefashion.com). This feminine look was much appreciated after World War II, which had forced many women to dress in very plain and uniform styles. Examples of 1950s wardrobe staples include tailored skirts, full-skirted dresses and cardigans.
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Straight Sheath Dresses
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It wasn't uncommon for women in the 1950s to make their own clothing with the help of a sewing machine. During the 1950s, home appliances become easier to afford due to mass production. Women could purchase patterns for dresses and make the dresses themselves if they couldn't afford the store-bought versions. The sheath dress, also called pencil style, featured fitted, straight lines and fabrics that were usually cotton or satin cotton. Darting or "princess seams" were also common features.
Full-Skirted Dresses
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Appropriate for daytime or evening attire, full-skirted dresses were often seen on both young and mature women. The waist of the dress was fitted, with buttons making their way up the bodice of the dress. Seersucker, floral and solid fabrics were often used for this style of dress. The dress often fell at mid-calf length and featured a full skirt.
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Cardigan Sweaters
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Cardigan sweaters were popular with both men and women of the 1950s. For young men in high school, a cardigan sweater might feature their high school "letter," if they lettered in a particular sport. Young women could be seen pairing cardigan sweaters with poodle skirts. For a business casual look among men, a cardigan sweater with a pair of trousers was popular. A dress shirt and tie could be worn underneath the cardigan.
Jumpers
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For little girls and teen girls, jumpers were very popular. Jumpers usually featured straps that went over the shoulders and buttoned in front on the top panel. Full skirts were attached to the bodice of the jumper. The overall look of a jumper could be easily changed by wearing different tops underneath or adding a cardigan.
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References
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
