Q&A for How to Dress in the American 1950s Fashion

Some things that come to mind are nipped-in waists, full skirts, Peter Pan collars, fitted cardigans with pearl buttons, and saddle shoes.

Scarves were used in a versatile way, such as belts, to tie pony tails, and worn around the neck. Today, the most identifiable way of how scarves were worn in the '50s was on the head as a bandanna.

People have been wearing jewelry since prehistoric times. During the 50s, your typical casual jewelry would be minimalistic in nature. Pearls, tennis bracelets, stud earrings, small chain necklaces - with or without a small pendant. Depending on class, taste, and financial ability, there was quite a variety of jewelry styles.

Yes! In the 1950s, it was not uncommon for upper/middle class women to wear oxfords with rolled jeans.

Teens from the 1950s typically wore felt skirts with a poodle design (female) or a greaser style (male). Dresses for teen girls in the era were usually found wearing poodle skirts and a nice blouse or a similar to the one their mothers wore, and teen boys tended to dress like Danny from "Grease". You can achieve this look by including a (usually) white t-shirt, dark skinny jeans, a leather jacket, and black oxfords or converse (either will do) in your look.

Research 1940s fashion. You can wear dresses or skirts that fall below the knee, or wide-legged and high-waisted pants. You can wear any modern button-up shirt for a top.

Yes, the 1950's is too early for that. I'd recommend straightening (if your hair is corkscrew-style curly) and then pin-curling your hair, keeping it close but still elegant, elaborate and a wee bit pouffy.

It is likely they don't want to have to spend more money on your fashion preferences than what they already spend on your wardrobe. Perhaps try to alleviate their fear by explaining you'll pay for it from your own budget and learn to alter charity store clothes too. If it's not budget issues, ask them to explain what their concern is. This fashion is (mostly) modest, fun and sweet, what's not to like?

They were, but less frequently. Hoop earrings became more mainstream in Europe and North America in the 80s. In the 50s, smaller hoops were worn and drop earrings were the most popular hoop earrings at this time.