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'50s-Style Dresses for 2008

Where to Find the Perfect Vintage-Inspired Prom Dress

© Gill Hart

'50s-inspired Dress, Olivier Lantzendörffer
In our quest for anything vintage from the glamorous era of the '50s, the classic prom dress has re-emerged as one of the leading styles of the summer season.

‘50s-style dresses are a reminder of when women really knew how to dress in terms of femininity and style. According to Look magazine, a ‘50s-style dress is the "ultimate figure fixer", and if you want to look as if you’ve got a waist, then this dress will do the job.

The Longevity of the '50s-inspired Dress

Both high-end designers and high-street labels have been loving the prom dress. From Primark’s cheap chic (from £14), to Oasis or Warehouse's mid-priced fashions (£65 upwards) the good thing about a ‘50s dress is that, whilst others may come and go, it never really goes out of fashion.Add a few ribbons, ruffles and bows to be right on-trend this season, but basically it’s the same style dress, an A-line or princess style, with a fitted waist, and an A-line or circular-skirt.

'50s Dress Styles

When it comes to a prom dress, the fullness of the skirt and the fitted waistband has a feminine and flirty feel. The only decision you have to make this season is the style you want (A-line or Princess) and the length of the hemline, which ranges from above or below the knee. Think Marilyn Munroe, and you’re halfway there!

To get a great vintage ‘50s look, decide what cut is likely to best suit your shape. A-line dresses are forgiving to most figures , so is a V-neckline. Alternatives include a gathered bodice or simple, square or scoop-neck. Many of today's vintage-inspired dresses have strong detailing like bows and ruffles, in keeping with the current trends. The older you are, the simpler the style should be, and the less fussy the print.

From High-fashion to High-street

According to Retrotogo.com, “While many are going down the Lily Allen 80s-update avenue, the high-end designers are often staying truer to the quintessential prom dress' roots.”

Featured on their website is one of the best vintage-inspired prom-style dresses around is from Donna Karan’s current collection. This beautiful cream halter-neck dress ticks all the right boxes when it comes to femininity and ‘50s styling, mixed with a flavor of the current trends.

At the other end of the scale, high-street labels such as Primark have a good selection of ‘50s inspired styles, such as their Printed Satineen Prom Dress at £14. Go further upmarket and Warehouse has a huge selection of ‘50s type dresses, including their gorgeous Corsage Tiered Prom Dress (£100 ) and Placement Dandelion Prom Dress (£75,) which are typical examples of the most popular current ‘50s dresses .

Buying '50s Dresses VintageShopping Online

If you are keen to buy the real thing rather than the vintage-inspired versions, then take a look at some great vintage sites. With the increasing interest in everything vintage, this has spawned a wealth of vintage online shopping sites. This makes searching for that perfect dress even easier, or at least to give you an idea on styles and cuts.

Check out Freudianslipsvintage.com, a UK based site that stocks some beautiful, high-quality pieces and Itsvintagedarling.com is another UK based site, which specializes in cocktail dresses and accessories. North American sites include NYvintge.com, and Archive Vintage, which calls itself an e-boutique.

How to Accessorize a Prom Dress

As a ‘50s prom dress is powerful enough to make a statement of its own, then keep accessories simple — moderation is the key. Pearls are perfect for this kind of look, or alternatively a feminine diamond pendant or some thin bracelets. In the article "Prom dresses: Pointers to take to heart," on Promdressguide.com, the author recommends footwear such as high clear heels and strappy sandals.

Match the look with a vintage or vintage-inspired purse. British designer Rachel Hannah has some very affordable, unique styles, whose current collection is influenced by '50s chic. Just recently launched onto the market, these handmade vintage-inspired bags are guaranteed to be a talking point at any social occasion.


The copyright of the article '50s-Style Dresses for 2008 in Women's Dresses/Skirts is owned by Gill Hart. Permission to republish '50s-Style Dresses for 2008 in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.





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