1950 S Costume

Preparing For The Next Act

The Evolution of 1950′s Fashion Costumes | Fashion Trends, Spring ...

Anyone paying attention knows that 50?s costumes are becoming increasingly popular among consumers not only for Halloween, but also because of the proliferation of themed costume parties throughout the year who really enjoy the 50′s look. The influence can often be traced to resurging appearance of the style in TV and movies. In the beginning they were made popular by movies from this era. Popular stars like the famous Marlon Brando and James Dean would influence teenagers not only in that era, but in years to come. 1950′s costumes represent a decade of style that has withstood the test of time better than many of the decades that followed it.

America was emerging from the twin specters of World War and Economic Depression, and as the country was ready for good times and to move on, fashion became one symbolic way to make that transition. In the early part of the 1950′s, menswear was a major part of the clothing revolution that changed clothing style forever. Many people today associate the “grease” or “greaser” style of clothing with the early 1950′s, but in actuality that just wasn’t the case. In the early part of the decade businessman and other office workers wore the typical flannel suit. The most popular colors were dark brown, gray, charcoal, or navy blue. Most 50′s costumes don’t reflect these particular styles.

Men weren’t the only ones in the game as women were also ready for a change in clothing and fashion, as well. The early 50′s went from rationing to abundance. A classic example is the rationing of silk stockings in the 1940′s but in the 1950′s women could buy dresses that took four or five yards of the once scarce material. Wide skirts and puffy sleeves came in fashion and were the new signature of a truly well dressed woman. Bodices became covered with fancy lace, pleating, and embroidery while their skirts also enjoyed new adornments that brought far more flair and attention than past fashion styles.

The 1950′s were a decade that also saw more leisure time for businessmen as the economy strengthened and there was less and less concern about another recession. This also influenced leisure clothing since more men needed something stylish for all the extra time out enjoying themselves. The 50′s led to the “penny loafer” and heavy cardigan sweaters. Upper class style dictated rare wearing of blue jeans, not the common use that is often seen in modern costumes, and definitely without the plain white t-shirt depicted in so many movies. The “preppy” or “Ivy League” style was all about the loafers, nice sweaters, and that style is still often seen in TV shows or movies set in the 1950′s or even 1960′s.

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