Women's fashion mirrored this. There was a distinct trend toward more feminine and graceful clothes. I'll talk about the details of that in the future post.
One thing that struck me though was how similar the collar of my new Jessica Simpson dress is to the collar of a dress worn by Elizabeth Taylor at the 1958 Academy Awards. Here are the two dresses. Compare their collars. Mine is almost identical -- and would be even more so if my broad-shoulders weren't stretching the edges of it outward.
Are they similar or am I imagining this?
They are almost identical! It just goes to show that timeless fashion pieces are always in style (so don't throw away those arm warmers because they will keep coming back!) xo
ReplyDeleteThanks, Emily.
ReplyDeleteAnd, if I may be so bold, I predict that in two years, arm-warmers are going to be HUGE! Like leg-warmers were in the 1980's. They're a fad waiting to happen. I mean, can't you imagine bevies of tweens descending on Claire's to buy 'em and look cool like their friends?!
Oh, and back to the comparison. I'd look a lot more like Liz if I had a glittery tiara, chandelier-earrings, mink stole and narrow waist. Oh well... I do the best I can. :)
ReplyDeleteThey are very similar, yes. I tend not to pay attention to the finer details like that...just not in my nature.
ReplyDeleteI eagerly await this 1950's fashion post of yours. I tend not to like 1950's fashion for a multitude of reasons (number one being I'm not really that girly, so the full skirts and feminine details don't do much for me, number two being that the '50's reek of the oppression towards women, but then again, I wasn't around then, so what do I know), but maybe you can sway my opinion!
Every period has opportunities and oppression. You can find both in our society today. Many view the current oversexualization of our culture which is thrust on young girls to be quite harmful.
ReplyDeleteThe Fifties have a "rap" which was created during the Sixties to justify certain social changes that followed then. Like most generalities, it isn't entirely true. I won't sugar-coat the period, but there were changes that helped the lives of women as well as some that didn't.
To view the period historically, you have to remember it came after the Forties, when all American society was suffering horribly. The idea then that you could have a loving family in a home of your own in a green suburb was almost to much to dream. Most families were reeling from the austerity of the war-effort (e.g., rationing) and the tragedies of widespread deaths of soldiers/family-members.
For many who lived through the Fifties, it was a happy dream. For some, tightening social norms pinched. Ultimately, our lives depend on us, not society.
I love that neckline. Modest on the cleavage, but revealing of collarbone. Very sensual without being slutty.
ReplyDeleteThe 50's was a pipe dream that followed years of Victory gardens and narrow skirts due to fabric shortages. Definitely a honeymoon period for lovers of clothing! I find the history of "the New Look" to be fascinating.
Oh, they are insanely identical! Very flattering on the collarbone! :) I like!
ReplyDeleteExactly the same. And like Ashley, I can't wait to see what you post about this.
ReplyDeleteYou are so cool. Have I told you that lately?
xo,
Tracy
They are very similar - the 50s collar and necklines are very classic and aim to emphasize the shoulder in contrast to the narrow waist you see on most 50s dresses. You should check out Couture Allure Vintage Fashion (it's one of my Major Awards from this year) for some amazing 50s dresses.
ReplyDeleteIt 's not your imagination !
ReplyDeleteThe necklines ARE similar... I really enjoy looking back and admiring these dresses, the construction seems so detailed.
They're very similar indeed! You just can't beat the classics :)
ReplyDeleteThe King's Speech was wonderful, by the way. Really, really enjoyed it!
Heck, I want arm warmers now! I love that timeless collar cut. I have a pattern for a similar dress and now I have an urge to sew.
ReplyDeleteYes, identical they are. I'm quite taken with the 30's through to 60's looks (all except the hippies) womens wear was so feminine - just beautiful.
ReplyDeleteHope your weekend is fabulous :-)
Hugz
When I saw your Jessica Simpson dress I instantly thought 1950s Glamour.
ReplyDeleteShe is so beautiful. *sigh*
ReplyDeleteYou are correct, those necklines are the same and I repeat, my favorite dress that you have worn yet!!
I just love the dress on you, and the neckline is perfect for disguising cleavage... or a lack thereof.
ReplyDeleteFor some women, the hazards are that the brastraps are exposed (for the narrower-shouldered among us).
I also think that the "fussy fashion" of the period reflects the expectation that women leave the wartime workforce and become more "ornamental" than functional in both appearance and lifestyle.
No, you're right on! A fifties-ish - slightly retro and classic - style works VERY well on you!
ReplyDeleteYes, this time period is making a comeback! I like that neckline. It is very simple and elegant. I am fascinated by the '50s as well. I read a book on the development of suburbs a couple years ago, and of course it got into the culture of that time. Interesting stuff.
ReplyDelete