Petticoat

A 1950s petticoat is a full-skirted undergarment made from layers of crinoline, tulle, or cotton that created the dramatic silhouettes essential to post-war feminine fashion and the decade's emphasis on hourglass figures and voluminous skirts.

Quick Facts

• Era: 1950s (peak necessity 1947-1959)
• Origin: United States (post-war feminine fashion revival)
• Garment Type: Multi-layered undergarment/foundation wear
• Key Identifiers: Multiple fabric layers, full circular construction, tie or elastic waist
• Typical Resale Price: $30-$150 (authentic vintage pieces)
• Best For: Pin-up styling, 1950s dress authenticity, and vintage dance occasions

History & Evolution

The 1950s petticoat became essential foundation wear following Christian Dior's 1947 "New Look" revolution, which reintroduced dramatically full skirts after years of wartime fabric rationing and practical clothing. These undergarments were crucial for achieving the proper silhouette under circle dresses, swing coats, and other full-skirted garments that defined feminine fashion.

During the prosperity of the 1950s, petticoats became symbols of returned femininity and domestic luxury, constructed from quality materials like starched cotton, nylon crinoline, and layers of tulle that created substantial volume. The garments required significant fabric and construction time, making them investments that housewives and fashion-conscious women considered essential for proper dress presentation.

Different occasions called for varying levels of fullness, from subtle daily-wear petticoats to extremely full versions for special events and formal occasions. Quality construction included multiple graduated layers, reinforced waistbands, and careful finishing that prevented the scratchy discomfort associated with cheaper alternatives. Today, authentic 1950s petticoats are prized by vintage enthusiasts for creating authentic period silhouettes and superior construction quality.

Authentication Tips

Authentic 1950s Features:

• Multiple layers of cotton, nylon crinoline, or tulle construction
• Quality waistband with ties or covered elastic typical of the era
• Hand-finished seams and careful layer construction
• Substantial fullness designed to support heavy circle skirts
• Vintage sizing that tends to run smaller than contemporary measurements

Common Reproductions/Modern Pieces:

• Single-layer construction that lacks authentic 1950s volume
• Modern synthetic materials not available in vintage production
• Machine-overlocked seams instead of hand-finished edges
• Contemporary sizing that doesn't match vintage proportions
• Cheap construction with scratchy materials that cause discomfort

Styling & Use Cases

• Best for authentic 1950s styling: Essential foundation for circle dresses, swing coats, and full-skirted vintage garments to achieve proper silhouettes
• Ideal for pin-up events: Creates dramatic volume for photography, dance, and costume events requiring authentic 1950s proportions
• Perfect for vintage weddings: Provides proper support for vintage-inspired bridal wear or formal vintage dresses

Modern styling tips:

• Use minimal layers for subtle vintage-inspired fullness with contemporary dresses
• Adjust tie closure for comfortable modern wear while maintaining vintage silhouette support
• Choose appropriate length petticoats to match specific vintage dress hemlines and proportions

FAQ

Q: How can I tell if a petticoat is authentic 1950s vintage?

A: Look for multiple layer construction in cotton or nylon crinoline, quality waistband with ties, hand-finished seams, and substantial fullness designed for heavy vintage skirts. Authentic pieces show construction methods typical of 1950s foundation wear.

Q: What's the typical price range for vintage 1950s petticoats?

A: Authentic vintage petticoats range from $30-$150 depending on condition, fullness level, and construction quality. Exceptionally full or well-preserved examples command higher prices among vintage fashion enthusiasts.

Q: How should I care for a vintage 1950s petticoat?

A: Hand wash gently in cold water or machine wash on delicate cycle, depending on fabric. Air dry to prevent shrinkage and maintain the structure of multiple layers and crinoline materials.

Q: What makes 1950s petticoats valuable to collectors?

A: Their essential role in creating authentic 1950s silhouettes, superior construction quality with multiple carefully finished layers, representation of post-war feminine fashion ideals, and necessity for properly styling vintage dresses and maintaining period-accurate proportions.

📷: Unique Vintage