In recent years, women’s fashion has witnessed a notable resurgence of traditionalism and an increased interest in stereotypical vestimentary definitions of femininity. This trend has revived styles reminiscent of the 1950s, with elements such as hourglass silhouettes, corsets, bows, long round skirts, and the normalization of formal attire making a strong comeback in 2025. While some may embrace these trends purely for their aesthetic reasons, the revival of 1950s inspired fashion raises important questions about the societal values they reflect and reinforce, as well as the intersection of fashion, politics, and identity in today’s world.

After the Second World War, there was a cultural shift as societies tried to rebuild and redefine themselves. This period saw a widespread desire for glamour and femininity in fashion, embodied by Christian Dior’s  “New Look” in 1947. This look celebrated a cinched waist while accentuating the bust and hips. The peplum waistline became a key design technique to achieve this hourglass silhouette.‎ These dresses also incorporated full skirts, designed with a nipped-in waist and a voluminous skirt that flared out dramatically, typically pleated, gathered, or layered with petticoats to add volume and lift.‎ 

Other designers channelled femininity and elegance during this period: Pierre Balmain became synonymous with the post-war spirit of empowerment, designing sheath dresses and tailored suits that epitomized the wardrobe of the 1950s woman. His work extended beyond couture, dressing iconic figures like Vivien Leigh and Brigitte Bardot, and even royalty, such as Queen Sirikit of Thailand. Similarly, Jacques Fath, known for his innovative use of materials and floral-inspired designs, dressed Hollywood stars like Rita Hayworth and Ava Gardner, building his reputation as a designer who blended whimsy with timeless elegance. Cristóbal Balenciaga redefined femininity with his impeccable tailoring and Spanish-inspired motifs, creating garments that celebrated the female form while exuding power and grace. Meanwhile, Maggy Rouff carved her niche with designs that emphasized ruffles, shirring, and bias cuts, offering a softer, more traditionally feminine counterpoint to the androgynous styles of her contemporaries.

As fashion is often revealing of societal shifts, it is worth considering whether the revival of 1950s inspired styles and femininity is connected to the rise of conservatism and right-wing political movements in the Western world, prompting questions about whether these trends are inherently tied to a return to traditional values. This correlation becomes particularly evident when examining the rebranding strategies of popular clothing brands that once used to sell partywear and bold designs, and have now adopted a preppy, modest, and less revealing line of clothing. Equally noteworthy is the rise of influencers who promote lifestyles centered around the “trad wife” (traditional wife) lifestyle. Influencers like Nara Smith, for example, who promotes and embodies a modern interpretation of the 1950s housewife who prioritizes domestic life, hyperfeminine fashion, and traditional gender roles. This type of influencers have gained substantial followings on social media, further amplifying the appeal of 1950s conservatism. Their content not only amplifies the appeal of 1950s inspired fashion but also reinforces the cultural narratives associated with it, reminiscent of 1950s advertising that portrayed women primarily as housewives.

While many adopt 1950s inspired fashion, others criticize this trend for ignoring the political undertones of this revival. It is certain that fashion remains a powerful medium through which cultural narratives are expressed and contested. The resurgence of 1950s inspired fashion is more than an aesthetic trend – it is a lens through which we can examine the evolving dynamics of gender, politics, and identity in the year 2025. As we navigate this revival, it is essential to critically engage with the values it promotes and consider how fashion can both reflect and shape the societies we live in.