Super 50s

Accessorize Like a 50s Fashionista

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by

Betty Anderson
in

1. Cat-Eye Glasses

Cat-eye glasses were a quintessential accessory of the 1950s. These frames, characterized by their upswept outer edges, often featured glamorous embellishments like rhinestones or glitter. Women embraced them not only for their practical purpose but also as a stylish statement piece that exuded sophistication.

A 1950s woman wearing rhinestone-embellished cat-eye glasses, showcasing their glamorous and sophisticated style

2. Pillbox Hats

Introduced by the iconic designer Balenciaga, pillbox hats became a staple of 1950s fashion. These small, circular hats sat neatly atop the head and could be adorned with various decorations. For many women, they offered an affordable way to update an outfit and add a touch of elegance to their look.

A stylish 1950s woman wearing an elegant pillbox hat, demonstrating how it updates her outfit

3. The Poodle Skirt

The poodle skirt emerged as a symbol of 1950s youth fashion. These playful skirts were:

  • Made from felt in a circle cut
  • Featured various appliqués, not just poodles
  • Offered a more relaxed style compared to structured looks of the era
  • Often paired with twinsets, bobby socks, and saddle shoes

Poodle skirts quickly became a favorite among teenagers, representing the more carefree side of 1950s fashion.

A group of smiling 1950s teenagers wearing colorful poodle skirts paired with twinsets and saddle shoes

4. Saddle Shoes

Saddle shoes were a versatile footwear option in the 1950s. These two-toned shoes featured a white body with a darker strip across the instep. Popular among students and teenagers, saddle shoes were:

  • Comfortable for dancing
  • Suitable for pairing with various outfits
  • Worn with both poodle skirts and rolled-up jeans

5. Pop Beads and Winged Spectacles

Pop beads were a fun and customizable jewelry option. These colorful, interlocking spheres allowed wearers to create unique accessories, encouraging creative expression in personal style.

Winged spectacles, also known as "cat-eye glasses," were eyeglasses with frames that flared upwards at the edges. Often decorated with rhinestones or glitter, they combined function with high fashion, becoming a statement piece for many women.

A 1950s woman wearing colorful pop bead jewelry and decorative winged spectacles, showcasing these fun and customizable accessories

6. Stiletto Heels

Stiletto heels rose to prominence in the 1950s, characterized by their:

  • Thin, high heel
  • Pointed toe
  • Association with elegance and sophistication
  • Connection to Hollywood glamour

These shoes were versatile enough to be paired with various outfits for both casual and formal occasions, quickly becoming a staple in many women's wardrobes.

A stylish 1950s woman wearing elegant stiletto heels, emphasizing their thin high heel and pointed toe design

These 1950s fashion items were popular for their style and functionality. They represented the era's focus on elegance and individual expression in fashion, allowing women to showcase their personalities through their accessories. From the playful poodle skirts to the sophisticated stilettos, these pieces continue to inspire fashion enthusiasts and vintage lovers today.

  1. Peacock J. Fashion Sourcebooks: The 1950s. Thames & Hudson; 1997.
  2. Milford-Cottam D. Fashion in the 1950s. Shire Publications; 2017.
  3. Laver J. Costume and Fashion: A Concise History. Thames & Hudson; 2002.
  4. Buxbaum G. Icons of Fashion: The 20th Century. Prestel; 2005.