Fashion in the 1950s
Fashion Trends
During World War II, clothing and fabric had been rationed, so conservation and practicality was of the most importance to designers, who had to use as little material as possible. Skirts were shorter and slender and clothes in general were more fitted; having fewer gathers or pleats.
After the war, however, women wanted to be glamorous and sophisticated again. Popular silhouettes for women of the 1950s were slim waistlines with a either a slender or long full length skirt that emphasises their curves.
Key Styles of the 1950s...
The pupils of St. Barts school were asked to investigate 1950s fashion by looking though old photographs, 1950s fashion magazines such as 'Home Notes' and watching the 'Fashion Show' film footage.
They decided that some of the 'key' fashion items of the 1950s were:
- The poodle skirt- a wide swing skirt with a felt poodle applique, perfect for dancing to rock and roll!
- The sweater twin set
- Pencil skirt- long skirts that came bellow the knee and were very tight to your legs.
- Pedal pushers
For the boys, popular fashions included:
- Black leather jacket- the collar must be turned up!
- Black or white t-shirt with rolled up sleeves of course..
- The 'teddy boy' look- long jackets with narrow lapels and drainpipe trousers.
The children then designed an outfit for a lady from the 1950s using scrap materials and fabrics. Some of their work can be seen in the pictures above.
Learning article provided by:
Armley Mills Museum, Leeds Museums and Galleries |
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