The 1950s were a vibrant and iconic decade, marked by distinctive fashion trends and cultural shifts. This era offers a rich array of costume ideas for adults looking to capture the spirit of the '50s. Below are 13 of the best 1950s costume ideas, complete with details on how to achieve each look.
1. Poodle Skirt and Sock Hop Dancer
Description
The poodle skirt is perhaps the most iconic piece of 1950s fashion. These skirts are typically made of felt and feature a poodle appliqué, often paired with a fitted top, bobby socks, and saddle shoes.
How to Assemble
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Skirt: A full-circle felt skirt with a poodle appliqué.
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Top: A fitted blouse or sweater.
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Accessories: Saddle shoes, bobby socks, and a chiffon scarf tied around the neck.
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Hair and Makeup: A ponytail tied with a ribbon, and classic 1950s makeup with winged eyeliner and red lipstick.
2. Greaser
Description
Inspired by the rebellious youth culture of the 1950s, the greaser look is characterized by leather jackets, white t-shirts, and jeans. Think of characters like Danny Zuko from *Grease*.
How to Assemble
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Jacket: Black leather jacket.
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Shirt: White t-shirt.
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Pants: Blue jeans or black slacks.
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Accessories: Black boots or Converse sneakers, and a comb for that slicked-back hair.
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Hair and Makeup: Use pomade to slick back your hair, and add a bit of stubble for a rugged look.
3. Marilyn Monroe
Description
Marilyn Monroe's iconic white dress from The Seven Year Itch is a timeless costume. This look is glamorous and instantly recognizable.
How to Assemble
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Dress: White halter dress.
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Accessories: White heels and a blonde wig styled in Marilyn's signature curls.
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Hair and Makeup: Platinum blonde wig, red lipstick, and winged eyeliner.
4. Elvis Presley
Description
The King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley, is a fantastic costume choice. His white jumpsuit with rhinestones is especially iconic.
How to Assemble
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Outfit: White jumpsuit with rhinestone embellishments.
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Accessories: A wide belt, a red scarf, and aviator sunglasses.
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Hair and Makeup: Black wig styled in Elvis's pompadour, and sideburns.
5. I Love Lucy
Description
Lucille Ball's character from I Love Lucy is a beloved figure from the 1950s. Her polka-dot dress and apron are perfect for a fun and recognizable costume.
How to Assemble
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Dress: Polka-dot dress.
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Accessories: White apron, pearl necklace, and a red wig styled in Lucy's iconic updo.
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Hair and Makeup: Red wig and bright red lipstick.
6. James Dean
Description
James Dean epitomized the cool, rebellious youth of the 1950s. His look from Rebel Without a Cause is classic and easy to replicate.
How to Assemble
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Jacket: Red windbreaker.
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Shirt: White t-shirt.
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Pants: Blue jeans.
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Accessories: Black boots and a cigarette (optional prop).
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Hair and Makeup: Slicked-back hair.
7. Pink Ladies from Grease
Description
The Pink Ladies from Grease are a fun group costume idea. Their pink satin jackets and sassy attitudes make for a memorable look.
How to Assemble
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Jacket: Pink satin jacket with "Pink Ladies" embroidered on the back.
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Shirt: Black top.
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Pants: Black capri pants or pencil skirt.
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Accessories: Black flats and a chiffon scarf.
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Hair and Makeup: Curled hair with a headband, and bold makeup.
8. 1950s Housewife
Description
The idealized 1950s housewife look is characterized by a full-skirted dress, apron, and pearls. This costume is both nostalgic and charming.
How to Assemble
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Dress: Full-skirted dress with a cinched waist.
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Accessories: White apron, pearl necklace, and white gloves.
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Hair and Makeup: Hair styled in soft curls or a beehive, and classic 1950s makeup.
9. Rockabilly Girl
Description
Rockabilly fashion is a mix of rock 'n' roll and country styles. This look often includes polka dots, high-waisted skirts, and bandanas.
How to Assemble
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Top: Polka-dot or plaid blouse tied at the waist.
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Skirt: High-waisted pencil skirt or full circle skirt.
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Accessories: Bandana tied around the hair, cat-eye sunglasses, and red lipstick.
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Hair and Makeup: Victory rolls or a bandana, and bold makeup.
10. Buddy Holly
Description
Buddy Holly was a pioneer of rock 'n' roll. His look is characterized by thick-rimmed glasses and a plaid jacket.
How to Assemble
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Jacket: Plaid blazer.
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Shirt: White shirt with a skinny tie.
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Pants: Black slacks.
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Accessories: Thick-rimmed glasses.
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Hair and Makeup: Short, neatly styled hair.
11. Car Hop Waitress
Description
Car hop waitresses were a staple of 1950s diners. Their uniforms typically included a short dress, apron, and roller skates.
How to Assemble
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Dress: Short, colorful dress with an apron.
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Accessories: Roller skates, a tray with fake food, and a paper hat.
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Hair and Makeup: Hair in a high ponytail with a ribbon, and bright makeup.
12. Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's
Description
While Breakfast at Tiffany's was released in 1961, the character Holly Golightly was introduced in 1958. Audrey Hepburn's look is elegant and timeless.
How to Assemble
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Dress: Black sheath dress.
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Accessories: Pearl necklace, long gloves, and a tiara.
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Hair and Makeup: Hair in a beehive updo, and classic makeup with winged eyeliner.
13. Soda Jerk
Description
Soda jerks were the servers at soda fountains, a popular hangout spot in the 1950s. Their uniforms were simple but distinctive.
How to Assemble
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Shirt: White button-down shirt with a bow tie.
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Pants: White pants.
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Accessories: Paper soda jerk hat and a soda fountain prop.
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Hair and Makeup: Neatly combed hair.
Conclusion
The 1950s offer a wealth of costume ideas that are both fun and nostalgic. Whether you're channeling the cool vibes of a greaser, the glamour of Marilyn Monroe, or the charm of a 1950s housewife, these costumes are sure to make you the star of any event. Each look can be enhanced with the right accessories, hair, and makeup to fully capture the essence of the era. So, put on your saddle shoes, slick back your hair, and get ready to rock around the clock!
