In the 1950s, office girls’ fashion in New York was heavily influenced by the post-war era’s conservative and elegant style. The decade marked a return to femininity and refinement after the austerity of World War II, and women in the workplace sought to project a polished and professional image. Office attire during this period was characterized by structured silhouettes, tailored dresses, and modest yet sophisticated designs.

One of the iconic styles of the 1950s was the hourglass silhouette, achieved through nipped-in waists and full skirts. Women often wore fitted blouses or tops tucked into high-waisted pencil skirts or A-line skirts, accentuating their curves while maintaining an air of formality. The “New Look,” introduced by French designer Christian Dior in 1947, became highly influential in office fashion, emphasizing feminine elegance with its full skirts and soft shoulders.

Dresses were a popular choice for office girls in the 1950s, reflecting the desire for a polished and put-together look. Sheath dresses, typically knee-length and well-tailored, were a staple in office wear, offering a sophisticated and streamlined appearance. These dresses often featured modest necklines and sleeves, exuding professionalism and appropriateness for the workplace.

Blazers and suit jackets were essential components of office attire during the 1950s. Women paired tailored blazers with pencil skirts or A-line skirts to create a smart and refined ensemble. The use of suiting pieces added a sense of authority and seriousness to office girls’ fashion, aligning with the prevailing business culture of the era.

Accessories played a vital role in completing the office girls’ look in the 1950s. Pearl necklaces, delicate brooches, and gloves were popular choices, adding a touch of elegance and femininity. Women also adorned their outfits with coordinating handbags and stylish pumps, emphasizing a sense of sophistication and attention to detail.

Hairstyles during the 1950s were often characterized by well-coiffed, polished looks. Women frequently wore their hair in classic styles such as the “pageboy,” the “poodle cut,” or the “French twist.” These hairstyles exuded a sense of elegance and refinement, complementing the overall office girls’ fashion aesthetic.

Makeup in the 1950s emphasized a fresh and natural appearance. Soft, rosy cheeks, defined eyebrows, and classic red lips were popular choices. The focus was on enhancing natural beauty while maintaining a professional and presentable look.

In the workplace, adhering to a dress code was essential, and office girls were expected to dress appropriately and professionally at all times. This adherence to a conservative and polished style reflected the societal norms of the era, where women’s roles were often limited to clerical or administrative positions.

Office girls’ fashion in New York during the 1950s embraced a conservative yet elegant style. The era celebrated femininity, refinement, and professionalism, with tailored dresses, structured suits, and sophisticated accessories forming the foundation of office attire. The emphasis on a polished and put-together appearance reflected the cultural norms of the time, and the influence of 1950s office fashion continues to be felt in modern professional dressing.