The ’50s were a time when America was finally recovering from the war, rock ‘n’ roll was emerging, Hollywood ruled, and screaming teenage girls were swooning over Elvis. Are there better reasons to throw a party? Ladies, break out your poodle skirts, and guys, slick back your hair. It’s time for a 1950s Party!
Decorations and Costumes
Vintage diners can provide inspiration for a great backdrop for your ’50s party. Think black and white checkered floors, and bold, retro fonts on your invitations and signs. Pink, aqua, and black are also traditional “diner” colours but feel free to be creative!
Pound shops are a great place to find old records that can be re-purposed for all kinds of things. Create cupcake stands or mould them into serving bowls for crisps. You can also stick them on the wall for quick and easy decor! Look for old Coca Cola crates to use for serving drinks, or antique tin ad signs to use in your decor.
You could also go more Hollywood glam, and decorate with silver, crystal beads, ostrich feathers, and red carpet. Fill martini glasses with crystals, or tall vases with white ostrich feathers for easy centrepieces. Leave feather boas or beaded necklaces on the tables for guests to try on. Old Marilyn Monroe movies are perfect for inspiration, or just surf the web for images from that era.
Wondering what to wear? Think Grease. For ladies, the ’50s look was longer skirts with collared blouses or T-shirts, a coordinating scarf tied around the neck or ponytail, and bobby socks with sandal shoes. High ponytails with tightly curled locks are a classic girly hairstyle. For guys who want a tough look, pair a leather jacket with tight jeans and a plain white T-shirt. Don’t forget the greased pompadour! For a more conservative look, tuck a short-sleeved collared shirt into slacks and add a bow tie. Part your hair to the side and you’re set.
Old Hollywood costumes are all about the sparkle. Beads, sequins, glitter, and form-fitting dresses were “in” as women started embracing their curves. Throw on a feathered boa or sheer shawl to top it off. For guys, tuxedos are perfect. If not, a tailored suit will also work!
Food and Drink
Serve the classics! Hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, and milkshakes are great for a retro menu and fab party food. Toss some glass soda bottles in ice, and don’t forget the red and white striped straws! Fill old candy jars with classic candy like gobstoppers or liquorice, and set up a ginger beer station to complete the vintage vibe.
Entertainment
Keep your guests talking about your party long after it’s over with a little 1950’s entertainment, Celebrity lookalikes like Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley will add excitement to the party, while a Big Band or try a 1950’s Tribute Band for hire to can get your guests up and dancing!
Hire a Photo Booth and provide some ’50s-themed props. You could also provide photo ops with larger cut-outs, like convertibles, Hollywood premiers, or vintage signs.
Games like the limbo, hula-hooping contests, and hopscotch were all popular back then, so set up a space to hold some friendly competitions
