By Lisa Miller

 

Dear Mommy Stylist,

I have been invited to a 1950s retro theme party and have a dilemma. With my fall budget, I don’t want to spend money on something I’ll only wear once. Can you help me find a great outfit with some pieces I can use again?

Thanks,

Janice

Having experience in the vintage fashion reproduction market, I know just how to help you. Skip the poodle skirts and look for a piece that creates a grown-up, hourglass figure.

The Eva dress from reVamp (pictured above), is perfect for both a costume and a current, everyday look. With a flattering princess seam and stretchy bengaline fabric it’s just right for making a woman look like a woman. Plus, the fuller skirt skims over flaws and that’s always a good thing. The sailor-type collar provides a unique and expensive-looking detail that adds style.

And to top if off, reVamp is offering an exclusive 20% discount for The Mommy Stylist readers. Use code MOMMYSALE at checkout.

Below are details on how to style the Eva two different ways – retro and modern. So whether you want to be a 1950s bombshell or a stylish, contemporary woman you’ll know just what to do.

 

The Dress

The Eva dress ($255.00/reVamp)

Don’t let the price scare you. A dress of this quality, that embraces mommy curves so elegantly, will last for years and retain its timeless style. In addition, many of reVamp’s clothes can be made using your custom measurements which means they’ll fit like a glove. For an extra $10.00, the Eva can be altered to button all the way down which means you can wear it even more by turning it from a dress into an adorable coat. Don’t forget to use code MOMMYSALE to receive an exclusive 20% discount. Wear it again: wedding, luncheon, date night, the office, special occasion, Halloween.

 

The Retro Style (left)

Cat-eye glasses ($11.99/ModCloth)

These have clear lenses, so you can wear them over contacts without worrying about messing with your vision.

Besame Classic Lip Color ($22.00/reVamp)

This vitamin enriched, feather-proof natural pigment lip color comes in a gold-plated bullet shaped casing reminiscent of those popular during the 40s and 50s. With red lips back in fashion lately, it is okay to splurge a little on Besame because you’ll use it often. Red lipstick can even save time; it is so bold that the rest of your make-up should be very minimal.

Sinful Colors nail polish, Ruby Ruby ($1.99/Walgreens)

In the fifties, matching nail color to lipstick was de rigeur.

Fascinator hat ($30.00/ETSY)

These are made to order, so allow 3-5 working days plus shipping time. Wear it again: afternoon tea with the girls, special occasion, wedding, Halloween.

Long strand of pearls (sale $28.00/Kohl’s)

Whether real or faux, new or old, pearls will always add a touch of class. Try looping a long strand around your neck a few times. Wear it again: wedding, date night, special occasion, the office, graduation.

White wrist-length gloves with mini faux pearls (sale $21.00/Rakuten)

Lucite handbag ($45.00/ETSY)

Handbags with Lucite accents, like this one, were all the rage in the 1950s. Find them on ETSY or EBAY. Use it again: work, ladies luncheon, shower.

Seamed pantyhose ($15.00/What Katie Did)

Ditch the garter belt and try the modern tights version of this 1950s staple. You’ll save time and effort getting ready and no one will be the wiser. Wear it again: any time you would wear another pair of stockings; seams are just as sexy today.

Panty-girdle ($56.00/What Katie Did)

In the fifties they had corsets. Today we have the panty-girdle, a more comfortable way to lift the butt, flatten the tummy, and create feminine curves. Wear it again: under dresses, trousers, skirts.

Standout Ovation Heels ($36.99/ModCloth)

Neutral beige heels are always fashionable and these, with their bow detail, would have been popular in the 1950s as well. Wear them again: wedding, the office, date night, luncheon, special occasion, with skirts, dresses, or trousers.

 

1950s Hair and Make-up

(paraphrased from Burlesque and the Art of the Teese, by Dita Von Teese)

Skin: Natural with a matte powdered base. Apply peach, coral or rose powder blush along the cheekbones.

Brows: Thick, dark and highly arched. Color them in with a dark eye pencil.

Eyes: Lined on top with winged liner and thick, dark, long lashes.

Lips: Full with pointed peaks in red glossy lip color.

Nails: Match the color of lipstick.

Hair: Pin one side up leaving a wave over the other eye. Medium hot rollers work best to achieve this effect.

 

The Modern Style (right)

Blue hoop earrings ($42.00/Macy’s)

These earrings are a fun spin on a classic.

Shades of blue bib necklace ($38.00/Macy’s)

This Mykonos Blue necklace makes a great statement piece.

Sinful Colors nail polish, Tokyo Pearl ($1.99/Walgreens)

Pearly white nails look longer and healthier.

Faux leather envelope clutch, nude/black ($44.00/Nordstrom)

A modern envelope clutch is a great neutral piece that is easily paired with casual or dressy ensembles.

Faux pearl bow hair pins ($3.80/Forever 21)

Give your hair a retro spin with these pearl hair pins.

Assets high-waist shaping pantyhose, nude ($18.00/Target)

These tights are a lifesaver. They are magnificent at flattening the tummy and thigh areas while lifting the butt. They helped me “lose” that extra inch preventing me from fitting into pre-pregnancy clothes and they work well under fitted dresses, skirts, and pants. Wear it again: formal occasions, date night, night out with the girls.

Nala Pump, bluegrass ($168.00/Coach)

These pumps are so comfortable! Not to mention, this shade of green/blue is totally in this season. I found the deep plum color at ROSS last week for $49.99, so remember to check your local bargain store for deals.

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