The 1950s were an era of major social, economic, and political change. For women, the decade marked a significant shift in both societal roles and fashion. Women in the 1950s began moving into the workforce in larger numbers, and this brought about the need for a new type of clothing: workwear. The fashion of this time reflected both the traditional ideals of femininity and the increasing independence of women in the workplace.

In this article, we’ll explore the 195 women's workwear of the 1950s, highlighting the styles, fabrics, and trends that defined the era’s functional yet fashionable attire. From office settings to factory floors, women’s workwear in the 1950s was a blend of practicality and style.

The Rise of Women in the Workforce

The 1950s saw a shift in women’s roles within the workforce. After World War II, women who had previously been in the home or had participated in wartime industries started returning to traditional office roles, as well as new opportunities in the workforce. With this shift came a demand for workwear that was both professional and practical.

Unlike the wartime years, when women had to wear uniforms or coveralls in the workplace, the 1950s fashion for women in work settings was more refined and feminine. The clothing needed to be functional enough for women to do their jobs efficiently, yet stylish enough to fit in with the societal expectations of femininity. As a result, workwear for women in the 1950s evolved to include elements of the classic, elegant styles of the time.

Key Elements of 1950s Women's Workwear

Pencil Skirts and Fitted Blouses

One of the most iconic styles of 1950s women's workwear was the combination of pencil skirts and fitted blouses. The pencil skirt, characterized by its slim, straight cut, was an essential garment for women in professional settings. The style allowed for ease of movement while maintaining a chic, tailored appearance. Paired with a blouse that featured a modest neckline and often had details like bows, pleats, or puffed sleeves, this outfit became a popular choice for women working in offices, schools, and retail settings.

These pencil skirts were often made from wool, tweed, or silk, offering both comfort and durability for long hours spent at desks or in meetings. The fitted blouse, meanwhile, often used fabrics such as cotton or satin, offering a balance of comfort and elegance.

Dresses for the Office

Another staple of 1950s women’s workwear was the office dress. Dresses were seen as more practical than skirts and blouses, offering a more streamlined and professional look. These dresses often featured A-line silhouettes, with waistlines that were cinched with belts, creating an hourglass shape that was fashionable during the time. Dresses were designed to be worn in formal office settings, yet many were versatile enough to transition into after-work social events.

Materials like wool, cotton, and nylon were commonly used for these dresses, providing comfort and structure for everyday wear. Accessories like pearls, scarves, and gloves were frequently paired with these dresses to enhance the sophisticated look. Women working in corporate offices or administrative roles often opted for these types of dresses as they balanced style with professionalism.

Suits for Professional Settings

For women who worked in business or corporate settings, suits were a must-have in their work wardrobe. These suits often consisted of a tailored jacket and skirt (or sometimes trousers), creating a sharp and professional appearance. The suit was a symbol of power and professionalism, making it ideal for women in managerial or executive roles.

During the 1950s, these suits were typically made of wool, tweed, or gabardine fabric, which provided durability for daily use. The fitted jackets, often featuring peplum waistlines and narrow lapels, enhanced the feminine shape while maintaining a powerful look. Skirts were often knee-length or slightly below the knee, ensuring the outfit adhered to the era's modest standards.

Aprons and Work Dresses for Factory Work

For women who worked in more physically demanding roles, such as in factories or on assembly lines, work dresses and aprons were commonly worn. These were designed to be durable, easy to clean, and practical. The dresses were typically made of cotton or denim, materials that could withstand the rough conditions of factory work.

Aprons were worn over dresses to protect the clothing underneath, especially for women working in kitchens or other labor-intensive environments. The 1950s apron often had practical features like large pockets, ideal for carrying tools or other work-related items. Although practical, these work dresses and aprons still adhered to the modest and feminine standards of the time, with pleats, bows, and other embellishments often added.

Footwear: Comfortable Yet Stylish

Footwear in the 1950s was an important part of women's workwear. In professional settings, low-heeled shoes or flats were popular, as they were both practical and stylish. These shoes were often made from leather or suede, with classic designs like oxfords, pumps, or ballet flats.

For women working in more physical environments, such as factories, sturdy boots or sneakers were common choices. These shoes were designed to provide support and comfort for long hours on one's feet.

Influential Fashion Icons of the 1950s

The 1950s were also marked by the rise of fashion icons who influenced what women wore, both in their personal lives and in the workplace. One of the most influential figures during this time was Jackie Kennedy, whose elegant, understated style became synonymous with professionalism and grace. Her choice of tailored suits, simple dresses, and pearls shaped the fashion landscape for women in the 1950s, especially those in professional settings.

Another key figure was Grace Kelly, the actress-turned-princess, whose sophisticated, feminine style was emulated by women across the world. Her choices in workwear, particularly for public appearances and events, set the tone for the professional woman’s wardrobe of the time.

The Legacy of 1950s Women's Workwear

The 1950s women's workwear had a lasting impact on fashion in the workplace. The combination of feminine, tailored styles with practical, durable fabrics paved the way for the professional clothing we see today. The idea that workwear could be both functional and stylish set the tone for the evolving role of women in the workforce.

Today, we still see elements of 1950s workwear in modern office attire. The pencil skirt, tailored jacket, and classic office dress remain staple pieces in many women’s wardrobes. Although workplace attire has become more relaxed in some industries, the influence of the 1950s workwear styles remains clear.

Conclusion

In the 1950s, women’s workwear was about more than just looking good—it was about balancing function and femininity in a rapidly changing world. As women stepped into the workforce in increasing numbers, the demand for clothing that was both professional and practical led to the development of distinctive workwear styles. Whether it was the pencil skirt and blouse combo for office work, the tailored suit for corporate roles, or the work dresses and aprons for factory settings, the fashion of the 1950s reflected the strength, resilience, and elegance of women in the workforce.