50s Glamor
Because of World War II, nearly 1/3 of all women went to work. A shortage of nylon created a stocking shortage so women compensated by using leg make-up. The Sears catalog made clothing available through the mail at a reasonable rate. In shoes, saddle shoes were the choice of the school girl. High heels became higher and higher. The toe of the shoe and the tip of the heel came to spiky points. Make-up used was tinted powder, rouge, mascara and red lipstick. The most popular hairstyle was a long pageboy with the sides swept up and held with combs or barrettes. When the war ended, the boys came home. By 1947 the feminine "new look" featured belted and cinched waistlines, a lifted bosom, no more shoulder pads, and a mid-calf length. Skirts were very full (even up to 18 yards in a skirt) with layers of petticoat underneath. This romantic, sexy look was appreciated by the newly returned soldiers. Some wanted shorter skirts, however, to reveal more of the legs. A Little Below the Knee Clubs were formed in 48 states in opposition to the garment industry's emphasis on longer skirts. Denim had become the favorite leisure wear for all family members.
Please keep the posts in this thread relevant to 1950s fashion.
