Plus Size 1950s Costumes

Styles of Plus Size 1950s Costumes

The most basic 1950s look, whether it’s a dress or skirt and blouse, is for the top to be fitted and the skirt to flare from the hips. This look is very flattering for curvy women, especially if you wear the right lingerie, because it gives any figure an hourglass shape and draws impressive attention to your assets. Dresses, if the torso is the right length, tend to be the more flattering because they don’t divide you in the middle.

Most 1950s dresses were meant to be worn belted, or with a girdle or waist cincher underneath, and this gives you a longer, smoother, curvier look. Some dresses were cut with a rounded shoulder look, which you should try to avoid as they can make you look slump-shouldered and shrink your torso.

Another typical 1950s look is the slim-fitting dress with the pencil skirt. This is a look that can be worn to good effect by plus size women, but only if the dress is well-cut and the right foundation garments are worn. The right pencil skirt can give you a nice wiggle behind, but depending how your curves are distributed, it can make you look a lot wider than you actually are. If you want a pencil skirt, shop carefully and bring a trusted friend to judge how you look from all angles, especially behind.

Capri pants were also a big part of women’s fashion in the 1950s, and generally were worn with cropped tops, but they can draw unflattering attention to a round stomach. However, retro capri jeans, worn with a low-cut halter top and chunky high heels can be a very sexy look for any size.

If you are going to a 1950s-themed party and just want something simple, you can probably shop your own closet for a fun, easy look. A circle skirt, or something close to it, topped with a classic button-down blouse with a collar, a cardigan, pearls, a ponytail or upswept do, pumps and bright red lips will put you right into the Frank Sinatra mode -- and mood.

Shopping for Plus Size 1950s Costumes

The costume shops are full of poodle skirt and sweater costumes, but before you hit them, try a little vintage shopping. It’s very easy to find plus size 1950s costumes in vintage clothing shops, because the standards of beauty in the 1950s meant that most women were larger than styles dictate today. You can often find the genuine article for about the same price as a costume shop piece, but it will be better made and more fun to wear. Even when a vintage dress is considerably pricier than a costume shop outfit, it’s worth it if it looks fantastic and can be worn time and again.

If there aren't any vintage stores in your area, hit the Internet. There are dozens of online vintage shops, many of which have specific plus size sections for shopping. Obviously, it’s preferable to try something on first, but you can usually get online help in determining measurements.

Your Perfect 1950s Look

It’s not just the outerwear, it’s the underwear and accessories that make a 1950s costume. Foundation garments were worn even by the slimmest women back in the day and made all the difference to the look. Luckily, modern foundation garments are considerably more comfortable than those available in the 1950s. For most outfits, you only need a sturdy uplift bra and something that defines your waist and pulls in your stomach. There is no need to get drastic, you’re trying to have fun and don’t want to be in pain. If you wish, a crinoline under a full skirt can enhance your hourglass figure and perhaps circumvent the need for stomach shaping. Add some sexy pumps, jewelry and red nails and you are ready for the party!