Challenge 2: Make Me a Lady.

With my grandma's memories of the 1950s in mind, I decided to challenge myself to create an authentic 50s outfit from the clothes in my own wardrobe. The fact that I already owned all of the items used for the costume really proved that 50s fashion has managed to inspire several trends even in today's world of short skirts and pantihose.

Here's what I managed to find in my cupboard:


Waist-length bra, suspenders and stockings: Yes, ok the bra purchase was inspired by Lady Gaga rather than Marilyn Monroe but the stockings and suspenders are very 1950s. I've only worn them a few times as today's outfits are too short to cover the leg bands- but they are very sexy and I imagine women would have felt that way wearing them during the decade.

Petticoat, Step In and New Look dress: Look what I found!!! A petticoat and a little gem I like to call The Fat Sucker. My Fat Sucker is a modern-day alternative to the elastic Step Ins Grandma told me about: designed to make the waist appear thinner. Guess women's body hang-ups haven't changed much after all! Also in my cupboard was this red, very 5os, very New Look dress purchased from Portmans only a few years ago.


Gloves, shoes and accessories: I have a bit of a thing for gloves, so I own a few. Except, when I wear them out to nightclubs I get asked " are you a Michael Jackson fan?" as no one appreciates their gorgeousness anymore. However, during the 50s gloves were the height of fashion so I was in luck finding these. I also own far too many shoes and accessories and came across this cute pair of peep toes along with a black hair piece, stud earrings and a pearl necklace that Grandma gave me for my 18th birthday which was hers in the 1950s!


Putting it all together: It took three petticoats, lots of eyeliner and a slick of red lipstick ( which I love to wear everyday anyway) to create my 1950s outfit. I tried to remember Grandma's reflections about nipped in waist and full skirts as well as the focus on femininity and 'prettiness' of the period.

The final result: I felt very womanly and dainty in my 5os outfit. It was definitely very hot ( why did I choose to dress up on a 30 degree day?) and a little restrictive, but overall it made me feel more special and girly than my every-day clothes. What do you think?