If you're attending a fifties party and wondering what to wear, you've come to the right place. The fifties were an iconic era of fashion, with styles that have endured for decades. From poodle skirts to leather jackets, there are many options to choose from. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about what to wear to a fifties party, including tips, step-by-step instructions, hair care, and more.
Table of Contents
- How to Dress for a Fifties Party
- Step-by-Step Guide to Fifties Party Attire
- Tips for Choosing the Perfect Fifties Outfit
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Hair Care Tips for Fifties Hairstyles
How to Dress for a Fifties Party
When dressing for a fifties party, it's important to keep in mind the overall aesthetic of the era. The fifties were characterized by a sense of innocence, with modest, feminine styles that accentuated the waistline. Here are some general guidelines for dressing for a fifties party:
- Choose a dress or skirt that hits at or below the knee
- Accessorize with a petticoat for added volume
- Wear a blouse or sweater with a high neckline
- Opt for a cardigan or sweater set in a pastel color
- Finish off the look with a pair of ballet flats or saddle shoes
Of course, these are just general guidelines. The fifties were a diverse era of fashion, with many different styles and trends. Depending on the specific type of fifties party you're attending, you may want to adjust your outfit accordingly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fifties Party Attire
If you're still not sure where to start with your fifties party outfit, here's a step-by-step guide:
Step One: Choose Your Dress or Skirt
The fifties were all about feminine styles, so start with a dress or skirt that hits at or below the knee. This could be a full circle skirt, a pencil skirt, or a swing dress. Look for fabrics like cotton, taffeta, or chiffon, and choose a style that flatters your body type.
Step Two: Add a Petticoat
For added volume and fullness, consider adding a petticoat under your dress or skirt. This will give your outfit that classic fifties silhouette. Look for a petticoat in a matching color to your dress or skirt, or opt for a contrasting color for a pop of fun.
Step Three: Choose Your Top
Next, choose a top that complements your dress or skirt. This could be a blouse with a high neckline, a sweater in a pastel color, or a cardigan in a coordinating shade. Look for fabrics like cashmere or wool for added warmth.
Step Four: Accessorize
The right accessories can make or break your fifties party outfit. Consider adding a scarf or bandana to your hair, or wearing a pair of cat-eye glasses for added flair. Finish off the look with a pair of ballet flats, saddle shoes, or Mary Janes.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Fifties Outfit
When it comes to choosing the perfect fifties outfit, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Consider the occasion: Is it a casual fifties-themed party, or a more formal event?
- Choose fabrics wisely: Look for natural fabrics like cotton, wool, and silk for a more authentic look.
- Accessorize with care: Don't overdo it with accessories. Choose one or two statement pieces to complete your look.
- Be comfortable: While you want to look great, it's also important to be comfortable. Choose shoes that you can dance in, and fabrics that won't cause irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should men wear to a fifties party?
For men, a classic fifties outfit might include a leather jacket or varsity jacket, a button-down shirt, and a pair of cuffed jeans. Accessorize with a fedora or pompadour hairstyle for added style.
Can I wear jeans to a fifties party?
Yes, you can wear jeans to a fifties party, but make sure they're cuffed at the ankle and paired with a classic shirt or sweater. Avoid modern styles like skinny jeans or ripped denim.
What hairstyles were popular in the fifties?
Popular fifties hairstyles for women included the bouffant, the beehive, and the ponytail. Men often wore slicked-back hairstyles, or the iconic pompadour.
Hair Care Tips for Fifties Hairstyles
If you're planning to recreate a fifties hairstyle for your party, here are some hair care tips to keep in mind:
- Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to add fullness to your hair
- Blow dry your hair with a round brush to add volume and curl
- Use hot rollers or a curling iron to create curls or waves
- Finish off with a hair spray or pomade to hold your style in place
With these tips and guidelines, you'll be ready to rock your fifties party outfit with confidence and style.
