The flared skirt look lasted well over a decade–even when the slimmer skirts started coming into vogue. Here is a pattern from 1959 with options for the both the slim and the full look.

Here is a ladies’ “playsuit” from the 1950s. What drama! Note the one-shoulder bodice styling and the “pannier” wrap skirt.

This is a lovely example of the early 1950s look with the full, hip-emphasizing skirt and pretty horizontal bodice detailing. It’s the dawn of the “New Look.”

A pattern for two 1954 blouses. Note the interesting angled sleeve/armscye details.

A gorgeous 1950s gown pattern–probably for bridesmaids’ dresses. The one on the left would be for a formal evening wedding, while the one on the right would work for a daytime wedding. Dreamy!

Early 1950′s dress, just beginning to show that 1950′s “New Look” silhouette.

Perhaps more than any other item, the circle skirt instantly brings the ’50s to mind! My late grandmother wore these all the way into the late 1960s and looked fabulously glamorous in them. I love this feminine silhouette!

(Click for larger image.) Several years ago, Vogue Patterns brought out its “new” line of “Vintage Vogue” patterns–reprints from the archives that are absolutely fabulous. If you want to make your own, here is the place to go! Be sure to visit the Vogue Patterns Website to see more from this wonderful collection. (Image copyright [...]

This knock-out pattern is by Vogue–very classy with its princess lines and back skirt panel (just right for dancing).

This Hollywood pattern features a fitted midriff belt with back ties, a V-neckline created by the crossover bodice and softly gathered shoulder yokes. It was my chief source for the 1940s Swing Dress Pattern!