Stoles multiplied and flourished, in every fabric for every occasion: the newest being ring stoles, just shoulder width, in everything from fur to lace.Blouses became so important that they emerged from under the shelter of suits and functioned on their own, linked with their skirts by beautiful belts.In 1952, the Italian fashion shows known as Sala Bianca are launched in Florence, Italy.The outstanding trend in men’s styles during 1952 was the almost complete abandonment of the matching waistcoat, in favor of a garment in a complimentary or contrasting color for wear with the two-piece lounge suit for business and semi-formal occasions. But for dress occasions outside the home, for going downtown or to church, dresses were still a must.A well dressed woman wore a variety of undergarments including a bra and panties. I too love those classic 50s designs but sure would not want to have to wear girdles or wear gloves all the time. Among the most ardent devotees of the Chanel look was the American college girl, a breed famous for its fashion nonchalance — a nonchalance proved by her eager embrace of the raccoon coat vintage 1925 (it had to be seedy or it would not do) and the newly revived Shetland sweater.The biggest bombshell of 1957, however, burst just four months before the year ended when Paris, led by Christian Dior, ushered in the shift. The bosom line was high and round, the hipline often carried accents, such as sashes.Fashion in 1955 was heavily influenced by Asian design; Japan and India in particular.
Once again, brown was the choice for basic colors.Fashion in 1956 took a sharp turn to the more elegant and intricate. High waist, low waist, natural waist, no waist: all had their devotees. They left their homes to work in offices and factories, earning and managing their own money.
Nonslinkers chose satins, brocade-stiffened fabrics that belled rather than fluttered. Including catalog scans for both men and women.In the 1950s, everyone had a wallet. In single-breasted suits, the vogue was for a rather low-waisted, button- 1 style. Sheath dresses prevailed for day and evening.The basis was a figure-fitting sheath, but only in certain instances was this left in a simple, uncompromising form. Evening coats (with wraps) were very important in a woman’s wardrobe that year.Because of the heavy Asian influence, fashion in 1955 is easily distinguished by its wide variety of unexpected colors.
Pencil dresses also came in at the waist, but they stayed fitted and figure-hugging all the way down. Designers held fashion shows twice a year, and the U.S. and Britain often bought the rights to copy the garments (or simply stole the designs) and churned out cheaper versions to be sold in department stores.1952 Aldens catalogs had the latest fashions at affordable mass produced prices.Designers, led by Dior, started contracting out the manufacture of some clothing, and a wide range of accessories that were stamped with their labels. Clothing was heavily restricted throughout and just after the war — everything from the length of skirts to the size of collars was regulated. Etsy offers larger sized vintage clothing, especially garments from the 1970s. Tops were soft and skirts fell smoothly to a tapered hem.Coats also followed the chemise or trapeze shape, with wide collars and buttoned front. Society became very conservative, and there was a rise in affluence.
It is especially beloved for its chic retro style and playful looks, including those of the pin-up and rockabilly subcultures. Fashion in the 1950s was exciting and diverse. It was, tragically, the last of his surprises. Historical Context for 1950s Fashion. In a variety of materials including silk, velvet and corduroy, these waistcoats made a big contribution towards more brightness in men’s apparel, a trend which gained momentum during the year.Bolder designs and colors on shirts, socks and ties were to be seen in even the most conservative quarters.The fashionable double-breasted lounge suit had the jacket in button-2, show-3 style, with fairly long collar and lapels. Sweaters softened too, as did skirts — the latter via a sash or fringe or other dressmaker detailing.Pleated skirts came in view, too, topped often by middies (another Chanel-ism) or an overblouse. So wholesome, innocent, and lovely fashion with beautiful, exciting movie stars like Audrey, Marilyn, Grace, etc. Dior also set up 1953 Casual denim and cotton prints for home sewingThese new synthetic fabrics were seen as ‘miracle fabrics.’ They could be washed and dried easily, didn’t need to be ironed, and didn’t shrink.Few designers chose to break from the New Look model, but a couple paved the way.
There was an air of conformity – everyone wanted to act and look ‘normal.’ The man was the breadwinner and the woman was the feminine ‘happy housewife.’ Instead of scrimping and saving, women began to The full look of the 1950s was mature, glamorous, and very put-together.
Very bare shoes with jeweled heels, toes or instep bands were a colorful addition to evening clothes.