Following the success of Dior’s “new look”, cinched waists and full skirts dominated fashion in the early 1950s. While keeping this idea, women’s wear began to evolve into a less sophisticated shape, using a less full skirt and more feminine features. Fashion began to reflect more on the domestic role women take in household. Corsets began to make a comeback for smaller waists in a-line dresses. Peter-pan collars were often seen on casual a-line dresses and poodle skirts became popular amongst younger girls.

Chanel, Dior, and Balenciaga simultaneously introduced a new suit-like silhouette to fashion. This style was meant to be a stark contrast to the new look, a straight cut suit with a more form fitting shape.

the cocktail dress came into prominence in the 1950s. A-line dresses that were something in between casual and evening wear, with the full skirt and length of day wear and often the embellishment of evening wear. 

Chansonette bras (bullet bras) were widely popular and worn by women such as Marilyn Monroe.