You might also wear a fitted cardigan with pearl buttons. [3] X Research source Katie Quinn. Stylist. Personal interview. 8 May 2020.
Full skirts. These had more fabric, often with layered petticoats to make it more full. The material could be sewn in many different ways including circle, gathered, pleated or gored. Pencil skirts. These skirts were narrow and straight. [5] X Research source The skirts were designed to emphasize the woman’s slim waistline, which was a very important factor in the 1950s Swing skirts. These were knee high skirts that were also called poodle skirts. However, poodles were not the only animal featured on swing skirts. Nearly any animal, insect, or flower could be depicted on this kind of skirt.
The A-line look (narrow shoulder to wide hem) was very popular. Looser fitting dresses were also seen mid-decade. Sac (or Sack) dresses became common; these were loose and baggy. At this time, the hemline for most skirts and dresses was near the knee. Jackets became boxy and the Chanel look (a type of woman’s suit) was worn. This look had contrast trim around the jacket edges, no collar, and small pockets with contrast buttons.
The capri was mid-calf length; the peddle pusher was a long short; Bermuda shorts were knee-length. These were worn with flat shoes, ballet-type flats, and simple sneakers (like Keds). Socks were optional.
Later, women’s hairstyles became larger and bouffant, in the fashion of Elizabeth Taylor. [7] X Research source This style was often worn shoulder-length with buoyant roll curls in the front that continue into the sides of the hair in the wavy pageboy style.
Most handbags had shorter handles (no long straps).
Khaki and plaid shirts or button-down collared oxford cloth shirts were seen on students. T-shirts were seldom worn alone because they were considered an undershirt. Hawaiian shirts and box shirts were worn in the summer.
Some men also went for the longer, greased pompadour. Elvis Presley made this hairstyle famous in the 1950s.
