What was in fashion in the 1950s?

War is an event that changes not just the course of history but also every individual's life. It affects all aspects of society, including clothing and fashion. Let's take a look back at how the stylish men and women of the pre-war era dressed up.

The style of the 1950s represented a return to femininity and classic looks following the tough years of World War II. This period is considered the "golden" age in fashion history, with its influence still felt in modern collections. The fashion of the 1950s continues to inspire designers and stylists, and it remains an eternal style icon.

First, we'll look at the general trends in fashion: what new styles emerged and what was left behind. Then, we’ll analyze and compare clothing styles from different countries in more detail.

In the 1950s, women became more active and independent. The influence of Western styles became prominent, particularly due to Hollywood films and magazines.

An emphasis on the figure became an important aspect of fashion, with a special focus on the waist and hips.

Fabrics such as satin, taffeta, smooth or patterned silk, tulle, and lace became popular. Fur from mink, astrakhan, and caracul was considered fashionable.

The quality significantly improved due to the emergence of synthetic fibers and threads, the use of which in their pure form or in combination with natural materials led to the creation of fabrics that are easy to wash, quick to dry, and do not require constant ironing.

Popular colors for lingerie included pink, cream, and white; however, by the late 1950s, black also became fashionable. New synthetic fabrics made it possible for most women to access thin and elegant nightgowns and pajamas.

By the end of the 1950s, tights gradually replaced stockings. Seamless tights and stockings without longitudinal seams appeared.

The average and high stable heel gradually became narrower until it transformed into a stiletto. Open-toed sandals made of silk or brocade were the evening shoe option.

Men wore brogues and loafers.

Additionally, in the 1950s, flat shoes—ballet flats—became fashionable among the youth, allowing for comfortable dancing to the increasingly popular rock 'n' roll.

Accessories were an integral part of the 1950s style. Women wore gloves, wide-brimmed hats, and feminine handbags. Cat-eye glasses came into fashion.

Natural leather bags and wallets became popular among both men and women, adding a polished touch to their outfits.

Silk scarves and wraps added a splash of color.

Women wore jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets to complete their looks.
One of the main trends of the 1950s was jewelry made from pearls.

In the 1950s, fashion trends in the USSR and the rest of the world were significantly different, primarily due to ideological, political, and economic disparities. Here is a comparative analysis of fashion during that period:

⭐ Utility and modesty:
In the USSR, much attention was paid to simplicity and comfort. Fashion was utilitarian, emphasizing comfort and functionality rather than luxury.

⭐ Limited access:
Information about global fashion trends remained limited. Soviet women often looked to models from foreign films for inspiration, especially from French cinema.

⭐ Clothing models:
Fashion was dominated by feminine dresses with flared skirts and narrow waists for women, while men typically wore loose-fitting suits and classic overcoats.

⭐ Sports style:
A healthy lifestyle and physical fitness were promoted, so sportswear became popular. For women, this meant short skirts and trouser suits.

⭐ Men's fashion:
Men preferred a classic style: suits with ties. The main color palette for men's clothing included dark gray, black, blue, and brown.

In the 1950s, a new youth movement called Stilyagi emerged in the USSR. Stilyagi were inspired by American culture and music, which reflected in their style. They copied the looks of rock-n-roll stars and Hollywood actors. Their bright and unusual clothing even contradicted the ideology of that time.

⭐ Jackets and Pants:
The Stilyagi boys preferred to wear narrow trousers and short jackets in bright colors or with unusual patterns.

⭐ Accessories:
Berets, wide ties, and funny badges on clothing.

⭐ Footwear:
The boys preferred to wear narrow shoes, knee-high boots, or high-top sneakers.

⭐ Stilyagi Girls:
The girls also followed this fashion trend. They wore fluffy skirts, high-heeled shoes, leather jackets, and berets. Makeup and red lipstick were essential attributes.

⭐ Bright Colors:
One of the key features of the Stilyagi was the use of bright and unusual colors in their clothing. This stood in stark contrast to the traditional gray and brown colors of Soviet clothing.

⭐ "New Look" dresses by Christian Dior. These dresses were characterized by high waists and voluminous skirts, creating a feminine and romantic appearance;

⭐ Cocktail and evening gowns, often adorned with beads and stones;

⭐ Men preferred to wear blazers and shirts, placing great importance on the choice of ties and accessories;

⭐ The influence of Hollywood: Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn had a significant impact on fashion, and their styles were widely imitated in clothing and hairstyles;

⭐ Bright colors and prints, rich fabrics.

Comparing these two fashion worlds, it can be said that the USSR in the 1950s remained relatively isolated from global trends due to strict censorship and limited access to foreign information. In contrast, fashion in Western countries was more diverse and reflected a desire for luxury and femininity after the war.