1950's - The Nifty Fifties

The 1950s was an era of great economic growth; America was getting back on its  feet. It was the time of the “Baby Boomers” and the Space Race. It was also during this time that Rock N’ Roll was born. Sputnik 1 was the first artificial space craft that was launched into Earth’s orbit. People could see sputnik from earth and they were fascinated. It was a whole new level of ideas and thinking that really started off some of America’s greatest moments. We also introduced many different other products like color TV. and car seat belts. This was also when Disneyland first opened!

 The Chicks

Christian Dior introduced the “New Look” in 1947, it flooded through to the 1950s and became very popular. Dior wanted something fresh and different; the past years were dark and grey from the war, we needed something to get us out of this rut. The “New Look” was a way for women to look like women; feminine, curvy, and gorgeous. It had elements like a cinched waist, to give an hourglass silhouette. Women fought for the look and couldn't wait to sample it.

Fabrics like polyester, spandex, and nylon were still widely used. A popular choice of skirt amongst the teenage years was the poodle skirt, a felt skirt with a poodle as decoration. The teenage uniform was a cashmere sweater, poodle skirt, oxford shoes, and a scarf to tie around the neck. The Halloween costumes aren't far off on the look.

The dresses of the decade were basic but with flair. Sheath dresses were widely used. Fitted bodices and full A line skirts were seen everywhere. To make an outfit more exciting, women often used costume jewelry to give it more life; a reoccurring favorite was a brooch.

Jeans were rolled up to Capri length. Full skirts and pencil skirts were a common favorite. Skirts would normally be belted at the waist to give a more polished look.

Formal wear were long beautiful gowns with white gloves and heels. Many women also had adored pearl necklaces, this was a definite staple for many women of the 50s.

Oxfords (also known as saddle shoes) were very widely used. Women loved to wear berets. Scarves were a huge statement piece! They were worn with almost everything! They could be worn around the neck, head, or tied up into ponytails.

Make-Up in the 1950s was still very natural and soft. Pastels were a big favorite and pink was “it” color. Many women loved colors like pale pink, greens, blues, yellows, peaches and cream colors also. A pale complexion, little eye shadow, and massive amounts of mascara were the go-to look. Red was a statement color for lipstick or lip gloss

The Cool Cats

Men have always had that classy and polished look since the beginning, nothing has changed much! Things did though become more relaxed over time. Collared shirts with a thin tie were a normality. Suits were made of flannel or wool and were usually in a solid color. A favorite pass time look which was still comfortable and very stylish was a polo shirt with a sports coat. Polo’s were nice and comfortable but the collar still gave a finished off feel.

Hairstyles became more original and unique for men. The famous pompadour style (made famous by Elvis Presley) was an ideal and fun look. You would also be able to see that slicked back style which looked very handsome. The military cut was also a good basic for boys and men of all ages.

People and Entertainment

Rosa Parks

“You must never be fearful of what you are doing if it is right.”

-Rosa Parks

She was an African-American civil rights activist; a very inspirational women. There were many rules for Blacks and whites during this time. Even the buses were divided onto sides. One day there were many seats already taken, but she decides to sit on the “wrong” side of the bus. She refused to take up her seat. She violated the law that day. But it did lead to more awareness for civil rights. She was a powerful and wonderful lady to look up to.

Gene Kelly

A famous entertainer and dancer of the 1950s. he was widely known for his roles in Singin’ in the Rain and an American in Paris. He won many awards and set the bar high for up and coming actors and actresses.

Martin Luther King Jr.

A brilliant and gentle man, Martin Luther King Jr. was the leader and activists of the African-American Civil Rights movement. Research him to learn more of the amazing influence he had and the life that he led.

Marilyn Monroe

An American actress, model and singer is one of the most iconic people of America and especially during the 1950s. She was everything women and a major sex symbol during this time.

Elvis Presley

The King of Rock and Roll. Girls would fly to his side to listen to his romantic and soothing voice. He stole the hearts of the young and old.  

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