HOW TO STYLE A 1950’s LOOK

Creating a 1950s-inspired look is all about embracing the vintage charm and iconic styles of that era.
Styling the look starts at the bottom – with your lingerie. This is the foundation for the whole look – pointy breasts, nipped in waists and legs elongated by wearing stockings with seams.

From clothing to makeup and hair, here are some styling tips to help you achieve a fabulous 1950s look:

Clothing Styles

1950s Lingerie: Bullet bras and girdles were the main items of underwear that gave that ‘hourglass’ look. The silhouette of the era was based solely on the foundation wear so getting the lingerie right is the most important first step.

Full Skirts and Dresses: Look for A-line or circle skirts with a high waist that cinches in. These were a hallmark of 1950s fashion. Dresses with full skirts and fitted bodices are a great choice as well.

Polka Dots and Gingham: These classic prints were popular during the 1950s and can instantly evoke a retro vibe. Opt for dresses, blouses, or skirts in these patterns.

Pencil Skirts: For a more tailored and sophisticated look, choose pencil skirts that hug your curves. Pair them with fitted blouses and cardigans or a fitted jumper.

Cardigans and Sweaters: Button-up cardigans were often worn over dresses or paired with skirts and tops. Jumpers/sweaters with unique textures or embellishments can also be a great addition.

High-Waisted Pants: If you prefer a look incorporating trousers, opt for high-waisted tapered trousers such as capri or cigarette pants that create an elegant silhouette.

Footwear:

Mary Janes: These classic strap shoes with a low heel were a staple of 1950s fashion. They add a touch of sweetness to your outfit.

Saddle Shoes: For a more casual look, consider saddle shoes with their distinctive two-tone design.

Stilleto heels with long pointed toes and high heels

Pointed-Toe Flats: Pointed-toe flats or ballet flats can add a touch of elegance and comfort to your ensemble.

Accessories:

Pearls: Pearl necklaces, earrings, and bracelets were very popular in the 1950s and can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.

Cat-Eye Sunglasses: These iconic sunglasses with their upswept corners are synonymous with 1950s glamour.

Gloves: Elbow-length gloves, especially for more formal occasions, can add a touch of elegance to your look.

Headscarves and Bandanas: Tie a colorful headscarf around your head or neck for a playful and retro touch.

Structured Handbags: Look for structured handbags in classic shapes such as the ‘box bag’, often adorned with a top handle.

1950’s Hair Styling Tips

Creating 1950s-inspired hairstyles involves a combination of classic techniques and retro charm. Here are some hair styling tips to help you achieve iconic 1950s looks:

Victory Rolls: This iconic hairstyle involves rolling sections of hair away from the face and securing them with bobby pins for a glamorous look. Originally a 1940s style, they were still worn by women well into the 50’s.

Section off a portion of hair from the front of your head.
Comb this section smooth and then curl it inward using a curling iron or hot rollers.

Roll the curled section back and away from your face, securing it with bobby pins to create the “victory roll” shape.
Repeat the process on the other side of your head for a symmetrical look.

Pin Curls: Create defined curls by rolling small sections of damp hair and securing them against the scalp with bobby pins. Unravel them for bouncy waves.

Start with damp hair. Divide it into sections and apply a setting lotion or mousse for hold.
Take a small section of hair and wrap it around your finger to create a loop. Pin the loop against your scalp using bobby pins.
Continue creating these pin curls all over your head.
Once your hair is dry, carefully remove the pins and gently brush through the curls to create soft waves.

Bouffant / Beehive: Achieve volume and height at the crown of your head for a classic 1950s updo.

Tease / backcomb the hair at the crown of your head in sections, starting underneath to create volume. Using hair spray as each section is backcombed helps keep the shape.
Smooth over the backcombed sections with a soft brush and secure it with hairpins.
You can create a half-up bouffant or incorporate it into an updo for a more elegant look.

Rolled Bangs: If you have bangs, you can style them by rolling them under with a small curling iron or sponge rollers.
Use bobby pins to secure the rolled bangs in place.

Retro Waves: Create classic Hollywood waves by using a curling iron or hot rollers to curl sections of your hair.
After curling, brush out the curls gently to create soft waves.
Part your hair on one side for an authentic vintage touch.

High Ponytail with Volume:

Tease the hair at the crown to add volume and height.
Pull your hair into a high ponytail, leaving the teased section on top.
Wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to conceal the elastic.
Smooth out the ponytail and curls for a polished finish.

Scarf Updo: Create a simple updo by rolling your hair into a loose bun or chignon at the back of your head.
Tie a colorful scarf around your head, leaving the ends to drape down over your hair.

Short Bob with Curls: If you have a short bob, you can curl the ends using a small curling iron to create retro curls.
Use a light-hold hairspray to set the curls in place.

Hair Accessories: Use decorative hairpins, combs, or bows to add a touch of 1950s flair to any hairstyle.

Achieving these hairstyles might take some practice, especially if you’re new to vintage styling techniques. Don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t look perfect on the first try – the charm of these hairstyles often lies in their slightly imperfect and romantic nature. Use hairspray or setting products to help the style hold, and have fun experimenting with different looks to find the one that suits you best!

1950S Make-up Tips

Achieving an authentic 1950s makeup look involves embracing the classic beauty trends of the era.

From bold red lips to softly defined eyes, here are some makeup tips to help you capture the essence of the 1950s:

Flawless Base: Begin with a smooth, even base. Apply a foundation or powder that matches your skin tone for a polished complexion.

The goal is to achieve a matte finish with a focus on a radiant, natural look.

Soft, Well Defined Brows: Emphasize your eyebrows by filling them in with a pencil or powder that matches your natural brow color.

Aim for a soft well defined arch with a slightly rounded shape, as thin and arched brows were popular during the 1950s.

Winged Eyeliner: A signature of 1950s makeup is the winged eyeliner. Use a liquid or gel eyeliner to create a subtle or dramatic wing that extends slightly upward and outward from your upper lash line.
Keep the line thin and precise for a classic look.

Mascara and Lashes: Apply several coats of mascara to your upper lashes for a full, fluttery effect.
False lashes were also popular during the 1950s, so consider using individual or strip lashes to enhance your lash line.

Eyeshadow: Stick to neutral eyeshadow shades, focusing on soft browns and beige tones.
Apply a slightly darker shade in the crease for a subtle contour.

Rosy Cheeks: Use a natural-looking blush in shades of soft pink or peach to give your cheeks a youthful flush.
Apply the blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend it out toward your temples.

Bold Red Lips: A bold red lipstick is quintessential for a 1950s look. Opt for classic red shades with a matte finish. Start by outlining your lips with a lip liner that matches your lipstick. Then fill in your lips with the lipstick, using a lip brush for precision.

Highlighting and Contouring: Keep contouring minimal and subtle, focusing on defining your cheekbones and jawline.
Apply a touch of highlighter to the high points of your face, such as the tops of your cheekbones and the bridge of your nose.

Setting: Set your makeup with a translucent powder to keep it in place and achieve that matte finish.
Use a setting spray to lock everything in and ensure your makeup lasts throughout the day.

Nails: Choose classic nail colors like red, coral, or nude shades to complement your 1950s look.
Keep your nails short to medium length with a rounded or oval shape.

Remember, the 1950s makeup style is all about emphasizing certain features like bold lips and softly defined eyes. Take your time practicing the techniques and finding the shades that work best for your skin tone and personal style. Have fun experimenting and channeling the timeless glamour of the 1950s!

Finally, the key to achieving an authentic 1950s look is to pay attention to the details and embrace the elegance and femininity of the era.

If you want to give it a go, head on over to YouTube where are plenty of videos available to help with any of the above hair or makeup styles which will take you through step by step – happy styling!