Following on from last week’s guide to getting yourself a 1940s-themed outfit for Goodwood Revival, I’m moving onto one of the most popular decades for vintage: 1950s today. Perhaps one of the most recognizable decades, the Fifties were the decade of Dior’s New Look with its full skirts and nipped-in waists as well as the super-sexy wiggle dress and some very elegant tailoring.

Ladies – don’t forget that a hat and some gloves will finish off any 1950s outfit to perfection!

Fit and Flare

The iconic silhouette of the 1950s is a nipped in waist and full skirt. You’ll find this in infinite variations: from poodle patterned teen dresses to smart belted jackets with full skirts. Think of your fashion inspiration: do you want to dress like Sophia Loren, Marilyn Monroe or Sandy from Grease?

Suits You!

Smart tailoring was ever popular in the 50s, with the popular pencil skirt being worn with a nipped-in jacket. Don’t forget your hat and little white gloves!

50s Fashions for the Men:

There are so many different fashions for men to choose from if you’re looking for a 1950s look. Who do you want to be? James Dean or Elvis, Frank Sinatra in the Rat Pack or Gregory Peck? If you’re at a loss, go for a smart tailored suit or some retro racing overalls (teamed with a flat cap or racing goggles) and you’ll look fabulous!

The main thing to remember was that the Fifties was a decade of enjoying fashion after the austerity of the war years. So whether it’s bright beautiful colours, fun prints or decadent elegant full skirts the idea is to have some fun with it!

Where To Buy:

There are no rules saying that you have to go for an original vintage outfit rather than a reproduction or fancy dress outfit, but original vintage does look WAY better. Fancy dress always does LOOK like fancy dress. The problem with buying original vintage is that it’s harder to find something in your size which is why it’s good to start looking as early as possible.

Here are some of my favourite places for buying 1950s vintage: the vintage section of Etsy is a great place to look, as is eBay (although that can be a bit like trawling through a flea-market). Independent stores which have a great selection of 50 vintage are The Best Vintage Clothing (they ship from the USA so make sure you leave enough time for delivery). Other great stores which sell vintage or repro 1950s clothing are 20th Century Foxy and Heydey Vintage.

Next up will be how to dress in 1960s fashion for Goodwood Revival so don’t forget to check back or subscribe so you don’t miss out!

Photos copyright and used with kind permission from Matt Hind at Men’s File.