Post-War American Fashion

Fashion trends are always changing, what is in one season can easily become unfashionable the next. However, this theory is put to the test as current fashion trends are emulating the style of post-war America, questioning the statement of “out with the old, in with the new”. The trends of the 40s, 50s, and 60s are now prominent in today’s style with an edgier feel. 

40s Fashion

40s Fashion

The 40s was a time of great historical significance seeing as World War II came to an end in the middle of the decade. However, the war itself affected women’s rights in America as they were expected to work to fill in the shoes of the men at war. This shift to women’s independence can be seen in the fashion of the 40s. Blazers and pencil skirts emerged as a sign of working class women. Now this attire is prominent in the business world as it is a sign of success and independence in the workplace.

Dress For Success:

First emerging in the 40s the pencil skirt is an easy way to look great, slimming and professional in the workplace. Now you can find them in multiple colors and designs that make the classical look more youthful. 

If the weather is cold, you can always dress up your outfit with a knee length coat, which was also introduced in the 40s. Originally, lack of material to make longer coats was the reason for the short length, but today this fashion necessity keeps you warm in style.

When summer comes along make sure you're up to date with retro bathing suits that pops on a hot day. High wasted bikinis and checkered and plaid designs are and were in fashion. This cute bathing suit is slowly emerging in the fashion world, so be the first to start the trend!

Accessorize and Glamorize:

Low high heels and wedges were practical and comfortable for women’s daily activities. This theory still applies today and is becoming more prominent in the fashion scene. They give you a sturdy balance but a feminine touch. This look is one that can be worn daily but still spices up your outfit and it doesn't hurt that it makes you look a little taller. 

Sunglasses are a great way to mask those bags under your eyes from those late working hours. The trend of circle and cat-eyes glasses are making a come back for the long summer days ahead. These sunglasses can also be worn as eyeglasses making a summer fashion favorite a year long ordeal. 

50s Fashion

50s Fashion 

The fun and flirty fifties: an era in which dressing gracefully youthful and feminine became fashionable, replacing the 40s dominated businesswoman look. The fashion was inspired by Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn, who became leading women. Their fashion although playful always had a glamorous feels to it, with Christian Dior and Chanel stealing the fashion light.

Luck Be a Lady Tonight:

Although the wide skirt, also known as poodle skirt, was quite dramatic in the 50s with its large stature and length, it has been modernized into a shorter and subtler flirtatious feel. However, this modification still maintains the integrity of the original design. Whether you wear it to a formal event, or to the movies with friends, this look can suite any occasion. 

Suits were still a fashion favorite in the 50s but Coco Chanel made the look more elegant. By wearing more fitted and H-lined tailored suits with high-end material, a simple suit becomes an elegant look. 

Stylish From Top to Bottom:

The hairstyles that were sweeping the nation in the 50’s are the pixy cut, rockabilly, and mainly the waved bobs. Most of these hairstyles are coming back but in a much edger and dramatic way. The elegant waved bobs are often seen on the red carpet, but the pixy cut is a haircut that has been revived as many brave souls these days are chopping off their hair. 

Although purses are used to carry all the daily necessities, in the 50s their small size could hardly carry a wallet. They were worn mainly on the wrist or clutched in the hand. This type of bag would be perfect for a nice night out or even as a small accessory for the beach. 

60s Fashion

60s Fashion 

The Beatles, the Vietnam War protests, and the hippie movement, these are some things commonly remembered when one speaks of the 60s. However, when it comes to fashion it was known for breaking expectations for women and introducing vibrant colors to the fashion world. Mini-skirts, go-go boots and the androgynous look emerged in the 60s, changing women from the well-refined specimens they once were. 

It’s a Fashion Statement:

With the emergence of political movements, pop and rock and roll, women dressed up more expressively. Being refined became less of a concern as women let their hair go loose and became visually vibrant. The 60s look is one that is emerging today with its colorful designs and graphic prints. With a simple printed dress you too can dress to express. 

Another fashion favorite of the 60s was the  lace or crochet dresses, peter-pan collars and the “sex kitten” look. These although contradicting from the dramatic look above still expressed youthfulness as short hemlines were a important attribute to the look. 

Let it Loose:

A widely popular hairstyle of the 60s was the fringe, also known as bangs, with the poofed up hair. This hairstyle has been revived today with stars like Zooey Deschanel, Adele and Taylor Swift sporting the look. 

Another 60s trend that is emerging today is the cat-eye makeup. With eyeliner and some practice, this look can be perfected as an everyday eye statement. This simple yet catchy look is a 60s statement for the ages. 

Design Your Own Closet...

Don't worry if you cant find something off the rack that soothes your fashion senses! You can always design your own outfit or have a friend or professional do it for you. Here are some of our own: