The revival of 1950s fashion is more than just nostalgia. It often also mirrors more profound shifts within society. Some might argue that it’s just nostalgia, but in reality, it’s much more than that. Back in the day, the 1950s fashion reflected an era of post-war Optimism with a sort of unapologetic glamour that resonated with a lot of people.
Designers are looking to use these trends by creating meaningful and sustainable styles. For example, the ‘new look’ silhouette can now be worn by all genders, not just being traditionally feminine. We can also look at the fact that bringing these styles back can lead to an inclusive as well as an expressive way of honoring heritage.
1. Full Skirts Meet Streetwear
This is an unexpected urban mashup that was originally more for the suburban housewife or the Hollywood starlet button is now categorized as a streetwear essential. This change could be seen as a cultural statement. Voluptuous skirts, bomber jacket or hoody, and some chunky sneakers will make your street wear pop.
The brands that are heading this trend are brands like Off-White or Balenciaga, as they are styling their models on the runway in tulle skirts with graphic tees and vests. Urban retailers from New York to Seol, most young people claim that this hourglass silhouette portrays a sense of non-conformity and freedom.
2. High-Waisted Jeans
High-waisted jeans is seen as the style trend that has gone from rebellion to a basic on runways and in the modern home. In the 1950s style icon such as Merlin Monroe helped the high-waisted jean to make a comeback. In the modern day, these jeans are considered to be a staple in most closets and it forms part of the sustainable fashion movement.
Classic cuts of jeans are being brought back into fashion by brands such as Levi. In the modern day, customers demand transparency from these brands to make sure that they use ethical production methods and even recycled materials in the production of jeans. There has been an increase in sales of jeans by 40% since 2022, which is mainly due to style trends that arise from Gen Z and millennials.
3. Cat-Eye Sunglasses
This trend from the 1950s have seen a tech infused to come back that extend much further than just Hollywood glamour. Style icons from that era such as Audrey Hepburn made these glasses iconic. In the modern day one can see cutting edge wearable technology also imitate the style for example augmented reality displays and UV sensors could be built into these feline frames.
Ray-Ban, as a brand have collaborated with Meta, and they have produced cat eyes sunglasses that could be seen as smart tech. While they have the vantage chic frame, you can make calls and even stream music through these glasses. This is an excellent example of a fusion between the past and the present.
4. The Varsity Jacket
Back in the 1950s, the varsity jacket was more a symbol of American high school masculinity or any athletic achievements. Today, the varsity jacket can be worn by anyone who would like a more athletic style. We have seen the varsity jacket in style lines of Louis Vuitton and many other big brand names. This oversized yet sporty look can be a symbol of self-expression, regardless of your gender.
Edit release to report in 2024, which stated that there had been an increase in sales of the varsity jacket among non-binary and women customers. With bold graphics and vegan leather or recycled wool being used, it is a way to cycle responsibly sourced materials. So look for a varsity jacket that could be styled in many ways and or sustainably made to join this trend.
5. The A-Line Dress
In the 1950s, it was Christian Dior that made this dress a trend as it was a symbol of empowerment and feminism. The original airline dress had a modest silhouette, but today’s versions are seen as not so different. Designers love experimenting with colorful graphics and other fabrics to make this dress a statement of confidence.
The journal of fashion marketing and management did a study in 2024, which stated that 68% of professional woman would wear their a line dress to events As it made them feel more confident and powerful. An added bonus of this dress is that if you pick out the right fabric and fit for you, it will become your comfortable go to.
6. Prints and Polkadots
In the 1950s, this playful motives were all the rage and they are seeing a comeback in style as well. From a psychological perspective wearing these creative patterns could elevate your mood. Fashion brands, such as Carolina Herrera has been playing around with these patterns to make joyful dresses for special occasions.
In a modern society where minimalism also is a popular trend, prints and polkadots that we are seeing today challenges this social construct by bringing life into fashion. We are seeing more and more prints and polkadots on accessories, clothes, and costumes. If you like the more minimalist style, you can bring some personality to your outfit by adding a statement piece with a bold print or some polkadots.
7. The White Skirt
Believe it or not, the crisp white skirt was a staple in menswear in the 1950s. This fashion trend has been seen as a radical change and has become a unisex canvas for maximalism. When we think back to the original white skirt, we know that it was a symbol of order, conformity, and simplicity. Now, designers such as Alexander McQueen are experimenting with embellishments that blur the line between minimalism and maximalism.
The white skirt has become a basic that one could style in many different ways, making it a versatile staple in your closet. It can be styled for many seasons as well by making use of layering in the colder months of the year. One thing is for certain that this versatile piece you can make your own in an instant by personalizing it to your own style.
8. Gloves
In the 1950s, gloves were seen as a practical but mandatory accessory for women. Yet, since the COVID-19 pandemic, it has seen a comeback. But they’re bringing back this trend to more than just hygiene designers, such as Prada, or experiencing bold colors and prints to make stylish gloves.
Wearing gloves speaks to an old-world etiquette, but also to modern day self-expression. If you incorporate gloves into your wardrobe, it could be a practical yet stylish addition to your closet. WGSN release a report in 2024 where an increase in glove sales by 48% and 2021 was seen this was largely motivated by safety factors.
Fashion as Social Commentary
Much like back in the 1950s, fashion today is a platform for activism, criticism and social commentary. We are not only influence by brand names or design designers, trends are also influence by influencers today. It is good to see that the 1950s are not forgotten and new generations seek to learn from past fashion trends. Most of the trends that are revived are challenging the social norm of minimalism and provides a way of self expression.
Whether it is through making your whole outfit, a certain look or styling up minimalistic outfits with a few bold accessories, enjoy this era of experimenting with gender, fluid styles and silhouettes. There is truly something for everyone out there to feel comfortable and stylish in.
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