With spring sunshine easing its way back into our lives, it’s time to dig up those tank-tops, shorts, skirts, and dresses! Along with the new season, fashion has circled back to my favorite decade for style, the 50’s. Yes, those pencil and hoop-type skirts, shirt-collar dresses, and patterns are returning with some 2013 flavors. The 50’s fashion emphasized femininity by accentuating women’s natural curves through the fabric, rather than with less fabric. These outfits gave women the ability to exude a subtle sexiness that was classic and elegant.
One positive aspect of the 50’s style is the variability in outfit-structure. For instance, women’s clothing ranged from tighter pencil-skirts to looser A-line or hoop skirts. The varied differences in collars also left many choices in style, ranging from larger scoop necks to the shirt-collared look. This gives women breathing room in dressing for their body-type, without sacrificing feeling beautiful. Below, I’ve listed a couple of dress styles to help guide you in preparing for your spring wardrobe!
The Shirt-Collar Button-Down Dress
Right: A modern twist on the classic button-down dress. The shirt-collar and shape hint towards an older decade, but the mixture of lace with denim bring this back to 2013. The play of different textures and shorter length make this a, seemingly, flirty and comfortable outfit. You could definitely go to class and go out with friends in this dress.
The Patterned A-line Dress
Left: The vibrant colors scream “SPRING” and the A-line flare and shorter length let’s you move around! This style is slightly more form-fitted above the waist. You could wear this dress anywhere, though it would be perfect for dates and slightly more formal night outs. If you’re not a fan of the shirt-collars or collars in general, this dress-type may work better for you.
Frock/Peasant-Top Dress
Right: A peter-pan collar with half-length loose sleeves. This outfit seems to carry a Cinderella-esque style (before she gets the white gown and glass slippers!). The longer sleeves can lengthen your arms (visually), and the loose top, cinched at the waist will accentuate that hour-glass shape. What makes this outfit interesting is the print on the collar and the detail above the waist, combined with the contrast of the peasant-top sleeves. The dress flows out at the bottom, which adds a little flirt to the dress and comfort to the outfit.
Especially this season, don’t be afraid to experiment with the closed collars and longer, more flowy dresses. I highly recommend buying dresses with varying textures throughout the outfit or different patterns and/or bright colors! These outfits will help you fit right into the bold and beautiful spring weather.