Goth style encompasses a lot of different eras, from Victorian to modern, and even medieval times, but one classic fashion item that really lends itself to goth glamor is the 1950s dress. With this season’s return to ‘50s elegance with accessories like pillbox hats and long opera gloves, it’s only logical to embrace the whole shebang. Find some vintage inspiration with these 1950s dresses.
ModCloth Dresses
If you’re a fan of vintage style, you’ve probably heard of ModCloth. They offer pants, skirts, and tops in a variety of cute vintage-inspired styles from the 20s to the 70s (and some 90s throwbacks that make yours truly feel like the Crypt Keeper), but they’re best known for their dresses. ModCloth offers a solid balance of unique styles and affordability, making them perennially popular among vintage girlies.
This black sleeveless dress ($89) features a sleek belt and a fit-and-flare silhouette for a timeless look. Or, you could try this dark plaid dress ($90) in plum and violet with a cute peter pan collar for a similar vibe with a pixieish twist.
For a more formal look, this black a-line dress ($89) with a deep v neckline has a layer of dainty polka dot tulle that will make you want to twirl and twirl (and it also comes in seashell pink). Another evening option is this full-skirted black dress ($110) with long, fitted lace sleeves that would look ravishing with a string of pearls. This one ($120) comes in deep blue or dark burgundy velvet, with a luminous texture and a flowy silhouette with short flutter sleeves.
Inject some color into your life in this delicate pink midi dress ($100) with red and pink Swiss dots, a bow necktie, and a bright red patent leather belt. This fiery red 50s-inspired summer dress ($76) has a sweetheart neckline, intricate eyelet overlay, and sturdy shoulder straps. Transition into autumn with this red and black plaid dress ($99) with three-quarter length sleeves and a flattering flared skirt. Or you could go for this spicy red number ($76) with black polka dots, the perfect rockabilly dress for dancing the night away.
Can’t get enough plaid? This belted swing dress ($90) in red and black plaid features a turned down black collar and a sweetheart neckline and handy side pockets. Add a sparkly crystal brooch or earrings and it’s the perfect festive holiday party dress. For a more muted plaid, this navy dress ($109) with subtle red and green plaid and red buttons up the front is a good everyday option that’s easy to dress up or down.
Fit and Flare Dresses
The fit-and-flare silhouette is universally flattering, instantly giving you a flirty, feminine shape with a lot of style. It slims the waist and creates a full shape around the hips and legs, drawing the eye to the fitted bodice and creating an eye-catching contrast. The wide skirts in these types of dresses are also comfortable enough for all-day wear, with plenty of room for pockets–which explains why a fit-and-flare dress belongs in every bombshell’s closet.
This soft pink dress ($76) with a flocked black velour pattern of roses and thorns is the perfect blend of sugar and spice. The corset-inspired bodice gives it a cute, flattering shape–pair it with black tights and accessories for a dark edge. If you want an all-black ensemble, try this black shirtdress ($76) with eye-catching white snake embroidery on for size. For another black and white look, this black dress ($68) has delicate white piping on the front to elevate an otherwise plain black dress.
This cute black dress ($74) with silver buttons up the front and puff sleeves can easily be dressed up or down depending on what shoes you wear with it. For a dress in this season’s smash hit burgundy color, this one ($98) from Unique Vintage with subtle bows on the side pockets is a winner–and you can even add a matching crinoline for extra volume.
For more formal occasions, this off the shoulder party dress ($110) has a ravishing purple and black floral velvet pattern, and it comes in inclusive sizes from XS-5X. If you’re looking for something to pair with this year’s opulent opera gloves, this is an excellent contender.
Check out our selection of goth-friendly fit and flare dresses for even more options.
Wiggle Dresses
Nothing says femme fatale like the hip-hugging pencil silhouette of a 50s wiggle dress. Pair it with a veiled hat and you’ll be tormenting private eyes and getting in too deep with criminal conspiracies in no time (or at least look the part). A pair of stockings with back seams will complete the look and really show off those gams.
Highlight your curves with this tailored lacy black velvet wiggle dress ($198) that also comes in deep blue, green, dark red, and deep purple. You’ll swoon for the neckline on this black made-to-order dress ($166) that also comes in a rainbow of vintage-inspired colors. For an office-friendly version of this dress style, this white and black checked dress ($88) is very demure (and dare we say, mindful).
A more casual, rockabilly take on this style is this belted teal off the shoulder dress ($82) that’s made to measure for a perfect fit. Or, if you’re on the hunt for the ultimate LBD, this gorgeously simple black dress ($112) is modeled on Audrey Hepburn’s famous Breakfast at Tiffany’s dress–pair it with a wide brimmed hat for a classic silhouette–or go for a long cigarette holder for a nod to one of cinema’s great leading ladies. In general, these dresses really make accessories like hats, sunglasses, and gloves pop because of their slim, simple shape, so wear them when you want to spotlight your latest finds.
Swing Dresses
A swing dress in cotton or chiffon is the perfect casual piece that can take you from the office to a night on the town–after all, they’re made for dancing. With flattering a-line shapes and a multitude of patterns, these jaunty swing dresses are ready to take a page from The Cramps and tear this damn place up, little mama.
This corset-inspired black midi dress ($62) has a sweetheart neckline and wide shoulder straps for all-day comfort. We love the jacquard fabric texture and subtle details–and the pockets.
Make a statement in this belted velvet swing dress ($218) from La Femme en Noir. It comes in deep oxblood, black, midnight blue, dark forest green, and plum, and its plunging neckline is edged with black lace for a delightfully vampy touch. Another fun and quirky dress from this brand is this lace-up bodice swing dress ($168) inspired by Bram Stoker’s Dracula. It has a red and white print on a black background featuring wolves, roses, and bleeding crosses with swirling filigree.
For a daytime look, try this belted button-up dress ($79) with a gorgeous full skirt with plenty of movement. It comes in beige, black, red, brown, green, or white for a multitude of different looks. Tuck a silk scarf under the collar for a pop of color. Or, for a fancier take on this silhouette, this one in bright red lace ($138) is an inspired choice for holiday parties, dancing, cocktails, and nights of dark romance.
Plus Size 1950s Dresses
This ravishing evening gown ($230) in crimson stretch velvet with a mermaid hem comes in sizes up to 4X. The long sleeves make it perfect for staying warm at holiday parties. For a more casual option with a bit of witchy flair, this a-line midi dress ($198) features delicate blush netting in an abstract cobweb pattern over a layer of comfy black cotton. With convenient front pockets and delicate buttons up the front, you’ll want to make every day Halloween. For another adorable plus size goth dress option, try this black fit-and-flare dress ($78) with cute white bats, a bat wing peter pan collar, and dainty cap sleeves. It comes in sizes up to 5X, and it would look equally at home with sneakers, boots, or vintage style pumps.
For great quality and craftsmanship, try the Katie dress ($110+) with a flattering ruched shelf bust and a-line skirt in sizes up to 5X. It comes in a huge variety of colors and patterns to choose from, so you might even want to pick up more than one if you like the style. Or, for a dark cottagecore aesthetic, this dress ($168) in a beautiful black and beige toile pattern is just the dark yet feminine piece to add to your wardrobe.
Cottagecore Dresses
There’s an element of fantasy to wearing 1950s dresses. They hearken back to an era of timeless glamor we can admire from afar, even if we wouldn’t want to be zapped back into the past that created them. Cottagecore is a similar thing; it’s fun to embrace fanciful dreams of living barefoot on a farm and traipsing through the garden. Combine these two fashion aesthetics and you’ll be in a daydream paradise.
This dreamy dress with a flared skirt ($45) comes in a pretty pink rose print on an ivory or mint background for when you want to transform every room you enter into a rose garden. Pair it with a black velvet choker and gloves for a delightfully dark contrast, or play up the delicate details with a strand of pearls.
Get quirky with a dark cottagecore dress like this floral black midi dress ($76) with a subtle raven skull pattern, a sweetheart neckline, and puff sleeves. Or, get a haunted doll silhouette with this adorably dark puff-sleeve dress ($94) in a black plaid print.
This casual ruffled linen dress ($99) comes in an array of colors from emerald to black to burgundy, and an amazing selection of beautiful earth tones. You’ll love the natural, breathable fabric and delicate wooden buttons, not to mention the deep pockets and removable waist tie. This one is perfect for frolicking in a field or strolling the farmer’s market.
Vintage 50’s Dresses
Nothing beats the real deal. Get your hands on a genuine vintage dress and you’ll marvel at the fabric quality, decorative details, and stitching. These dresses are made to last, so if you invest in one, it’s sure to stand the test of time with proper care.
There are a staggering number of 1950s vintage dresses for sale on Etsy, often for under $100 and in mint condition. Finding the right size can be a problem, as it’s rare to find any larger than a size L. Fortunately, lots of sellers make made-to-measure 50s replica dresses, so you can still find vintage style with inclusive sizing. These handmade items will also be generally much better quality than what you’ll find off the rack.
How to Style a 1950s Dress
How Much Authenticity Should You Embrace?
The first thing to decide when you’re styling a 1950s dress is how authentically vintage you want to go when it comes to things like shoes, hosiery, makeup, and accessories.
Some vintage fashionistas insist on authenticity down to wearing girdles, gartered stockings, slips, and padded “bullet bras” to get that 1950s shape. Of course, it depends on the type of clothes you’re wearing. It doesn’t really matter what you wear under a flared skirt made of thick material or with a crinoline underneath, but for a skintight wiggle dress you might actually want that “cinched” look you’ll get from wearing a girdle. (If that sounds a little too daunting, control top pantyhose should also do the trick.) As far as slips go, they’re a good idea for dresses made of chiffon, lightweight muslin, or other transparent materials, but not necessary for most outfits. A slip can be nice for adding an extra layer in cold weather, though.
If looking the part of a 50s starlet from head to toe isn’t your main priority, just style your dress with your everyday shoes and jewelry for a more low-key look. These dresses are pretty versatile, so you don’t need to go full Grace Kelly to make them work.
Shoes
The shoes you wear often determine whether your outfit is casual or dressy. A pair of Converse high tops with a belted swing dress makes for an outfit you could run errands or head to the playground in, while the same dress with a pair of pumps is dressy enough for cocktails and evening dates. This season’s popular t-strap pumps ($94) are a versatile choice that would go with a lot of 50s dresses.
For a shoe that toes the line (sorry) between casual and formal, saddle shoes are the perfect choice for a 50s aesthetic. If you haven’t worn them since grade school, give these cute low-heeled mustard ones ($108) from Unique Vintage a look (they also come in black and taupe). Almond-toe pumps with low heels or ballet flats are also a solid choice–try finding some flats ($42) in this year’s smokin’ hot leopard print for a sassy spin on neutrals.
Stockings
Stockings and tights put the finishing touch on your look and add a bit of styling that determines how the outfit “reads.” For example, black fishnets ($7) are always going to goth up whatever you wear them with. If you want to keep the 50s look on point, go for subtle fishnets with small holes. Patterned tights will up the quirky factor of your outfit–especially if your dress also has a pattern. Of course, you can always go bare-legged for a casual, carefree look–especially in summer.
Stockings with back seams or plain stockings ($10) add an authentically vintage quality to a 1950s outfit. They’re often sold by specialty retailers to be worn with a garter belt or girdle. (I would avoid the thigh high stockings with elasticized/rubbery tops since they’re uncomfortable at best and two minutes from falling down your leg at worst.) Cuban heel stockings ($14), which have back seams and reinforced heels and toes, were also commonly worn at the time for their durability and distinctive look. You can also get pantyhose ($13) with this design if you’d rather not deal with garter belts.
To extend the life of your hosiery, hand wash and hang dry your stockings right after each wearing.
Accessories
The great thing about 50s style is it opens the door to SO. MANY. ACCESSORIES. From hats and gloves to brooches and pearls, and even capes and fur stoles, this era was a wonderland of fabulous accessories. Cat eye sunglasses ($16) are a go-to example of a 50s accessory with evergreen appeal and lots of attitude. Wear them with a bold red lip and a square silk scarf for an instant serve that would match any 1950s outfit. A statement glasses chain ($10) will keep your shades in place and add a dash of 50s style as well.
Jewelry
When most people think of 1950s jewelry, a dainty string of pearls ($34+) is the first thing that springs to mind. While it’s true that versatile, classic pearls ruled the decade, there are so many other fun options. Plastic bakelite and enamel costume jewelry really took off during this era, and you can still find some vintage or replica earrings and necklaces with colorful beads or interesting shapes, as well as big plastic bangles. Crystal and rhinestones were also popular for beaded necklaces or glittering brooches.
Speaking of brooches, this is their time to shine. You can instantly give a focal point to a dress, cardigan, or blazer by adding a vintage-style pin in a contrasting color. If you do decide to wear one, it’s best to avoid very showy necklaces because they tend to compete with each other and look “busy.” Another fun idea could be wearing a cluster of brooches on the front of your jacket and even throwing in some band pins for a little punk rock flair.
If you’d rather give your 50s dresses a modern twist, contrast them with an edgy black choker or some layered necklaces ($18). If your dress has a peter pan collar, a cute collar pin ($21) is another way to put a 21st-century spin on your vintage look.
If you shop for vintage 50s jewelry, you’ll find that clip-on earrings were popular since ear piercing was a bit less prevalent, but if you have pierced ears it’s probably best to avoid them as they can get a bit uncomfortable.
Hats
With statement pillbox hats sweeping this year’s high fashion runways from Prada to The Row, it’s an excellent time to return to 50s glamor. Fortunately, you don’t need to pay designer prices to get captivating style. Vintage pillbox hats retail on sites like Etsy for around $40, and you can probably find them for less if you luck out at a thrift or consignment store. These hats are delicate, so make sure there are no dents, bald spots in the velvet, or crushed netting before you buy. Alternatively, you could have one made to order for around $150, or check out inexpensive hats ($29) on Amazon.
Other hats that would look great with a 50s dress include berets ($32) and fascinators.
Gloves
Long leather gloves ($193) are this winter’s hottest accessory, adding a touch of formality and gothic drama to any outfit, and they’re especially suited to 1950s clothing. Pair them with a sleeveless wiggle dress for a showstopping combo.
For another vintage look, short black lace gloves go with virtually any 50s ensemble and add a delicate yet gothic look. Satin or tulle opera gloves are perfect with a vampy evening gown for formal occasions. Check out this collection of black lace gloves for some dark yet delicate options.
This list of 1950s dresses and styling tips should get you on your way to exploring this fascinating era of vintage fashion. Whether your style is dark and gothic or airy and feminine, there’s a look here to suit your taste. The fun thing about adopting vintage styles is putting your own unique spin on them, so don’t be afraid to experiment! With so many 50s-inspired accessories hitting the runways, now is the perfect time to bring these glamorous styles back from the dead.