A Guide to 1950s Casual Style
Style Through the Decades: Vintage Inspirations for Modern Looks
The iconic cuffed denim casual look
The 1950s were a transformative decade for women's fashion, marking a shift towards more casual and practical styles that still retained a sense of femininity and elegance. One of the iconic looks from this era is the straight leg cuffed denim, a style that has transcended time and remains a popular choice today.
I always say that understanding fashion history is key to developing your own personal style, so today I’ll be diving into the elements that make up this classic look, from the tops to the shoes and even accessories, and provide modern shopping options to help you recreate this timeless style.
Step 1: tops
The tops that paired well with straight leg cuffed denim in the 1950s often featured distinct necklines and collars that added to the feminine charm of the look. Here are some popular styles:
Peter Pan Collars: These rounded collars were sweet and feminine, often seen on blouses and dresses.
Boat Necklines: Wide and graceful, boat necklines showed off the collarbones and added a touch of elegance.
Button-Down Shirts: Often tied at the waist or tucked in, these shirts were practical yet stylish.
Knit Tops: Short-sleeved or sleeveless knit tops were common in warmer seasons, offering a snug fit that contrasted nicely with the loose denim. Crew neck knits both fitted and boxy (as if borrowed from the man in their life) are a great way to carry this style into cooler temps.
Below, you’ll find some of my favorites available today - including a few actual vintage gems I found on Etsy!
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Step 2: Bottoms
The hallmark of this look is the denim itself. Straight leg jeans with a cuffed hem were both practical for everyday wear and stylish enough for various casual occasions. The jeans often had a high waist, accentuating the natural waistline and providing a flattering silhouette.
Imogene and Willie is a holy grail brand for this style, but with a price point of nearly $300 for one pair, its fair to look for alternatives. Keep in mind that if you find a pair with the right fit throughout the leg, you can easily turn the cuffs up and complete the look!
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Step 3: Shoes
The right footwear is essential to pulling off the 1950s casual denim look. Here are the types of shoes that were popular during this era:
Saddle Shoes: These two-tone shoes were a staple of 1950s fashion, perfect for a casual yet polished look.
Oxfords: Practical and stylish, oxfords were often worn with jeans and casual outfits.
Loafers: Comfortable and easy to wear, loafers added a touch of sophistication.
Keds Sneakers: Simple and sporty, Keds were the go-to choice for a relaxed, everyday look.
Fisherman Sandals: These versatile sandals were popular for their comfort and practicality, making them a great choice for a casual, vintage-inspired look.
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finishing touches: ACCESSORIES
To complete your look, don’t forget some tall bobby socks, a hair or neck bandana, and of course a purse!
In the 40s, women’s handbags were larger - to carry more things as women were in the workforce during the war. In the 50s, we see sizes shrink a bit, but a lot of structure remains. You can find a “box purse” if you dig, but this may be another item that would be best sourced vintage!
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Embracing the 1950s straight leg cuffed denim look is a fantastic way to combine comfort with vintage charm. By incorporating the right tops, denim, and shoes, you can easily recreate this timeless style. Whether you're inspired by the elegance of Audrey Hepburn or the casual cool of Marilyn Monroe, this look is versatile enough to suit any modern wardrobe.
Please tag me if you end up styling an outfit inspired by this! I’ll be sharing my own versions on social over the next month, so be sure to follow along!
Archival Photo Sources: Pinterest & Getty Images, Informational Sources: The Vintage Dancer