Fashion in the 1950s was marked by optimism, post-war economic recovery, and a return to traditional beauty and femininity. This decade contrasted sharply with the practical, frugal styles of World War II, embracing more playful, often romantic, looks that highlighted gendered roles. At the same time, the rise of youth culture led to a counter-reaction against these traditional and formal styles.
An elegant 1950s-inspired evening look. Note the fitted waist and elegant, classic details, including gloves and the feather headband placed at the back of the head. Photo: Tami Meijburg
The 'New Look' Continued
Christian Dior's "New Look," which emerged in the late 1940s, continued to influence 1950s women's fashion. Dior’s style emphasised the hourglass figure, with cinched waists, similar to the Victorian and early Edwardian eras, over 50 years prior. The skirts were full and fell to mid-calf, enhancing the feminine silhouette. To achieve this voluminous effect, many women wore crinolines and petticoats under their skirts, while the pointed bullet bra accentuated the bust.
Dresses, skirts, and jackets were often tailored with waist darts to create a narrow silhouette. Skirt suits with slim pencil dresses, which hugged the body, became popular, as well as dresses with fuller skirts and cigarette pants paired with cute, feminine shirts.
Small, decorative hats worn at the back of the head were fashionable, and hair was often styled in elegant curls inspired by Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor, or put up in a bun or ponytail with soft, wavy bangs.
1950s Working-Class Women's Fashion
In the 1950s, working-class fashion was influenced by the economic recovery after World War II, with an emphasis on practicality, comfort, and durability, but still with a sense of optimism and a desire for a change from the more utilitarian styles of the 1940s.
Feminine yet functional clothing became popular. Dresses were often simple and practical, made from cotton or nylon, with more defined waistlines than in previous decades. Aprons were worn by women in domestic work, and durable shoes or low heels were common for factory or retail work. Full-skirted dresses were also worn for casual outings.
1950s Upper-Class Women's Fashion
As mentioned earlier, the 1950s were dominated by the hourglass silhouette. Dresses featured full skirts, often supported by petticoats, with nipped-in waists and deep, flattering necklines. Fabrics like silk, taffeta, and satin were used for formal occasions, while tailored suits became fashionable for daytime wear. Accessories like pearls, gloves, and hats completed the polished look. Evening gowns were often elaborate, with luxurious detailing like beading, lace, and embroidery, reflecting the glamorous Hollywood influence.
1950s Men’s Fashion
Men's fashion in the 1950s was defined by a classic, well-groomed style with tailored cuts and clean lines. Suits were worn with slim silhouettes and narrow lapels, predominantly in dark colours like black, grey, and navy. Trousers were high-waisted and often had a straight or slightly wider cut. Casual wear became more relaxed, with cardigans, pullovers, polo shirts, and letterman jackets remaining popular. Hats like fedoras and trilbies were still common as part of formal attire.
1950s Working-Class Men’s Fashion
Working-class outfits typically consisted of durable trousers or jeans paired with button-up shirts or simple work shirts made from cotton or denim. Overalls and sturdy jackets were worn for factory or construction work, and work boots or leather shoes were essential for long hours on the job. Casual styles also became more popular, with men often wearing collared shirts or t-shirts for leisure. In some cases, bomber jackets and knit sweaters reflected military influences and post-war trends.
1950s Upper-Class Men’s Fashion
The 1950s saw the continuation of sharp, tailored suits. The classic two- or three-piece suit, with narrow lapels, high-waisted trousers, and crisp shirts, remained a staple of upper-class men’s wardrobes, though the vest began to slowly disappear. Popular colours included grey, navy, and black, often paired with accessories like pocket squares, cufflinks, and silk ties. For more casual settings, men embraced sport coats and lightweight trousers.
Rock 'n' Roll Teenager Rebellion
The 1950s also saw youth gain significant influence in fashion. The rock 'n' roll style, with icons like Elvis Presley and James Dean, had a considerable impact on teenage fashion. Denim jeans became a symbol of youth rebellion and casual style for both men and women. Leather jackets, associated with rock 'n' roll and motorcycle culture, along with the pompadour hairstyle, represented the rebellious style of the era. For young girls, circle skirts paired with fitted blouses or sweaters became popular, earning the nickname "Sweatergirls."
A casual 1950s everyday look featuring a red shirt dress. Note the wide skirt and fitted waist. The look is paired with our wedge 1940/1950s inspired Sidse sandals in red. Photo: Tami Meijburg
The Invention of Stilettos
1950s shoes reflected the decade's focus on femininity, elegance, and sophistication, but also included more relaxed and youthful styles. The invention of the stiletto heel in the mid-1950s was groundbreaking. Previously, heels were made from wood, which required a broader base for stability. In 1956, the discovery of reinforcing heels with an aluminium rod allowed for slender, high heels, leading to the creation of the stiletto. Women quickly embraced this long, pointed heel, which became one of the most popular styles of the decade, both for everyday wear and special occasions.
Julia is our elegant 1950s-inspired pump with a high, thinner heel.
Pumps and Oxford shoes remained popular. Among teenage girls, ballet flats and saddle shoes became trendy, inspired by Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot. Men continued to wear Oxford shoes, while loafers became a popular choice for more casual dress.
Our saddle shoe, Elliot, which became particularly popular among teenagers in the 1950s.
Sources:
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Shoes – An Illustrated Story by Rebecca Shawcross
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Tidens Mode by Anne-Grete Steckhahn
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Vintage Fashion – Collecting and Wearing Designer Classics by Emma Baxter-Wright, Karen Clarkson, Sarah Kennedy, and Kate Mulvey
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Vintage Shoes – Caroline Cox