5 Decades of Fashion: 1950s

Dovima modelling a Balenciaga gown, Perfection

Having overcome World War two the 1950s began on a joyous note. The fashion world emerged victorious and led by Christian Dior's 'New Look' began a fashion revolution and rebirth. Fashion was its own hero, evolving in order to dispel the devastation linked to the 1940s. After the years of rationing and sexless clothing woman had the opportunity to aspire to luxury again. Full circle skirts and cinched in waists gave fashion its femininity back. The 50s can also be seen as a step back for women in some senses. Women had been sent out to work during the war and liberated of their traditional domestic posts. However this rebirth of femininity was so refreshing women fell back in to their domestic positions tempted by the salvation of glamour. Designers showed woman what it was to be stylish and sophisticated again whilst setting a high standard for future decades to follow.

Dior's new look army