1. Marilyn Monroe
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When we think of the 1950’s, we automatically go to the gorgeous, blonde, bombshell. She was the epitome of everything a girl in the 50’s was not supposed to be. I think the most interesting quality about her was that she created the Marilyn Monroe persona, even right down to the voice and walk. Every guy wanted to date her and every girl wanted to be her. Marilyn continues to be endless inspiration for every girl out there.
2. Hair
Why is it that we never use pin curls anymore? Yes, it is a tough art to master, but how else are you supposed to get those perfect, bouncy curls? The brush out is the most rewarding part. I'm sure even Elizabeth Taylor had frizz before she did a brush out and used hairspray. Victory rolls are a high all on their own.
3. Makeup
It isn’t hard to achieve a vintage look with a little inspiration. Red lipstick was all the rage in Hollywood. A classic winged eyeliner was the ultimate life goal back then and still stands today. The 50's definitely didn't require a fake tan for beauty. Pale was completely acceptable and your flaws were embraced.
4. Music
Introducing, the rock n’ roll period. Elvis Presley’s gyrating hips had every parent in shock and rage. A huge sex symbol for the time period was just what was needed. Doo wap was very popular style of pop music. The Four Seasons were very hip for using it. Harmonies were all the rage.
5. Sports
Personally, I’ve never been a fan of sports, but I’m pretty sure this was a time to be a fan. Cracker Jacks and baseball bats had everyone in America screaming for their favorite team. They don’t call it the national pastime for nothing. I guess baseball gets a pass in my book because Joe DiMaggio was married to Marilyn.
6. Grease
Now I know Grease was not made in the 50’s, but what a beautiful representation of it. Sandy’s transformation from a poodle skirt to leather pants was one of the most iconic scenes in cinema. It is the perfect example of how it felt to be a teen in a 50's school. Not everything is peaches and cream all of the time and that's okay. We can grow from our mistakes.
7. Movies
Being Marilyn Monroe biased, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes is my ultimate go to 50’s flick. Going to the movies when things were just starting to really get serious with production had to be a joy to experience. Technicolor was just beginning to be a common sight. Russell and Monroe were the perfect comedic counterparts to each other.
8. Stars
9. Diners
Who doesn't love a good vintage diner? The pale colors of blue or pink in the booths with a white stripe down the middle and the rollerskating waiters. Jukeboxes were the old iPod's. Enjoy a burger and a milkshake while you listen to the Four Seasons. If you can't picture one, just think back to A Cinderella Story, and the diner there is what I mean.
10. Clothing
It really needs to be said that cigarette pants need to come back. Is there even a sleeker, classier, item of clothing? Pantyhose are slowly becoming a thing of the past. How could we ever leave behind a great poodle skirt? Plus, petticoats are a fantastic way to add volume to a plain skirt and bring it out of its vanilla state.
11. Dating
Relationships in the fifties were without a doubt the best time for romance. When was the last time you got invited to the sock hop? Or got pinned to show you were going steady? Let's bring that back and replace Netflix and Chill. We wouldn't have to deal with not getting a text back and miscommunication due to technology.
