1950s inspired clothing for women: from trend to style icon
History of 1950s fashion
Inspirational Style Icons of the 50s
How you Can See 50's Fashion in Our Collections
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The 50s were an era of glamour and elegance. Think Audrey Hepburn's Little Black Dress, Grace Kelly's pearl necklaces, and Brigitte Bardot's form-fitting sweaters. From swing dresses to pencil skirts: discover the most distinctive fashion elements and style icons of the 50s, and how they are reflected in our collections!
The 50s were an era of pure glamour and undeniable elegance in the fashion world. It contrasted sharply with the austerity of the preceding wartime years. The style of the 50s features many characteristic elements that you will likely recognize! Here are the key elements of 50s fashion:
Fitted Silhouettes: 50s fashion emphasized feminine forms with close-fitting garments. Dresses, skirts, and tops were often designed to accentuate the waist and highlight the curve of the hips.
Pencil Skirts and A-line Dresses: Pencil skirts were a popular garment in the 50s and were often worn with matching jackets (the twinset!). A-line dresses were also very popular, featuring a fitted bodice that flared out into a wide skirt, creating an hourglass shape.
Little Black Dress: Introduced by designer Coco Chanel, the Little Black Dress became an essential garment in women's wardrobes. It was a simple yet elegant dress suitable for various occasions.
New Look: The "New Look," introduced by fashion designer Christian Dior, was a revolutionary style characterized by full skirts (often achieved with petticoats), narrow waists, and feminine silhouettes. This was a reaction to the austerity of fashion during World War II and became one of the most iconic styles of the 50s.
Accessories: Accessories were also crucial in the 50s. Women often wore pearl necklaces, gloves, hats, and scarves to complement their outfits. Cat-eye sunglasses were also a popular accessory.
Fabrics: Fabrics such as cotton, silk, and wool were popular for everyday wear, while luxurious fabrics like satin and silk were used for evening dresses and formal wear.
The full swing dresses, the tight waistlines, and of course the iconic petticoats were characteristic of that time. Prints like polka dots, flowers, and checks adorned the fabrics, while accessories like pearls and scarves completed the outfits. This period was groundbreaking for the evolution of women's fashion, blending comfort and style hand in hand. It marked the birth of a style that continues to inspire and intrigue to this day.
An article about 50s fashion would not be complete without mentioning the most iconic style icons of that era! These well-known women not only influenced the fashion of their time but continue to be a major source of inspiration for fashion designers and lovers of vintage 50s style.
Marilyn Monroe: Who doesn't know her? She embodied classic Hollywood glamour with her iconic blonde curls, red lipstick, and form-fitting dresses that accentuated her curves. Her style was sensual and sophisticated, making her one of the most recognized faces of the 50s.
Audrey Hepburn: Audrey Hepburn was known for her simple yet timeless and elegant style. Her signature look included A-line dresses, pencil skirts, tailored capri pants, and of course, the iconic little black dress, as seen in the film "Breakfast at Tiffany's."
Grace Kelly: As the Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly embodied aristocratic style. Her clothing style was refined, understated, and timeless. She was often seen in well-tailored suits, classic dresses, and pearl necklaces.
Elizabeth Taylor: Elizabeth Taylor was a fashion icon known for her glamorous and lavish style. She often wore striking jewelry, diamond necklaces, and elegant evening dresses that emphasized her dramatic presence.
Brigitte Bardot: This French actress and singer embodied the youthful, flirtatious style of the 50s. She was known for her full skirts, form-fitting sweaters, headscarves, and cat-eye sunglasses.
These style icons have all had a lasting influence on fashion. They are still admired and used as sources of inspiration!
We are always inspired by vintage fashion and style icons of the past. Vintage forms the foundation of all our collections and designs. However, we add our own modern twist so that you can easily combine these vintage trends with more contemporary items. This creates a wardrobe that is timeless, unique, and special!
What you'll see most in our collections is the close, form-fitting silhouette and emphasis on the waist. We have many knit sweaters and cardigans that fall slightly higher, allowing you to beautifully pair them with high-waisted pants or skirts. This creates that emphasis on the waist. Our dresses and jumpsuits also often feature a fitted waist.
Our interpretation of the swing model is evident in our collection of dresses and skirts. Take a look at the wide-flaring Serena Skirt, which we always offer in multiple solid colors and various prints. Our dresses and skirts also frequently feature the A-line model: narrow at the waist and flaring out.
What we are particularly known for as a brand is our love for prints and color. As mentioned earlier, typical 50s prints like polka dots and checks. Checks are prevalent in our winter collections, and the typical 50s polka dot is always a favorite in our collection. It remains a vintage favorite!
Integrating 50s vintage-inspired clothing into your contemporary wardrobe is easier than you think. For example, combine a vintage swing dress or a little black dress with modern items and accessories such as a leather jacket and sneakers for a casual look.
Another way to give a vintage 50s twist to a more modern look is through accessories. For instance, wear cat-eye sunglasses or a headscarf like Brigitte Bardot, or a pearl necklace like Grace Kelly. Combining different styles from different eras makes a look unique, interesting, and special!
You can achieve the authentic 50s feel in many different ways. You can opt for real vintage items or clothing inspired by vintage fashion. It's all about creativity and playing with combinations. What suits you and your style best?
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