The 1950s, was a time of poodle skirts and sock hops, greaser jackets and Elvis on the radio. It was a decade brimming with cultural and social change, reflected in the vibrant fashion, electrifying music, and iconic design elements. But how do you capture that past era for a truly unforgettable party? The answer lies in the details. Get ready to crank up the tunes, because with the right 1950s props, your party is guaranteed to be a blast from the past.
Essential Decorations
Diner Delights
Transport your guests to a classic diner with fun and nostalgic 50s party props at your gathering. A real or decorative jukebox instantly sets the scene as the party’s heart. Surround it with chrome bar stools for guests to perch on and soak up the atmosphere. A black and white checkered pattern on a tablecloth or a rug, adds a playful touch and evokes the iconic diner aesthetic. Complete the diner vibe with pops of colour from neon signs.
Housewife Chic
Embrace the 50s housewife aesthetic with some delightful decorations. Pastel tablecloths with polka dots or floral patterns bring a touch of sweetness and femininity to your party space. Layer on the vintage vibes with doilies and table runners for a truly authentic look. Decorate with vintage kitchen appliances, even if they’re just decorative, for a touch of kitsch that perfectly captures the era. Finally, add a playful and colourful touch with glass vases filled with pink flamingos or fluffy feather boas.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Ready
Get your guests ready to rock and roll with some musical decorations. Acoustic or electric guitars, displayed casually around the space, create an air of musicality and set the mood for dancing. Records and a record player, even if not functional, add a touch of authenticity and provide a visual reminder of the era’s soundtrack. Hang vibrant sock hop banner decorations to set the party mood and complete the scene with iconic portraits of Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe on the walls. These legendary figures will instantly transport your guests back to the golden age of rock and roll.
Accessorise Your Guests
For the Leading Ladies
Embrace the spirit of the 50s with iconic fashion for your female guests. Poodle skirts in vibrant colours are a must-have. These playful skirts come in a rainbow of hues and are guaranteed to turn heads and get the party started. To channel your inner 50s fashionista, opt for a polka-dot dress or blouse. Accessorise with pearls, a classic touch that adds a touch of elegance. Complete the look with a pair of stylish cat-eye sunglasses. These bold frames add instant glamour and capture the essence of the era. Top off your outfit with a playful headband or a scarf tied around your hair for a touch of vintage charm. Finally, finish the look with kitten heels or saddle shoes for a comfortable and stylish touch that complements your outfit.
Classic Looks for the Guys
The fellas can transform into cool dudes with a few key pieces. Encourage the guys to slick back their hair for a classic “greaser” look. A timeless leather jacket paired with a crisp white t-shirt is a winning combination that captures the rebellious spirit of the era. Top it off with a pair of Wayfarer sunglasses for a touch of mystery and effortless cool. Blue jeans or slacks are great choices for the bottom half. Bowling shirts, with their bold patterns and relaxed fit, are another fun option that adds a touch of vintage flair. With these costume ideas, your guests will be ready to rock and roll the night away, looking every bit the part of 50s icons.
Don’t Forget the Fun
Once you’ve set the scene with decorations and your guests are rocking their 50s attire, it’s time to get the party rolling with some classic fun.
- Game On – Dust off those board games from your childhood or borrow from friends and family. Classic games like Scrabble, Pictionary, or Monopoly are perfect for friendly competition and laughter. They’ll bring back nostalgic memories for some and introduce a taste of the era for others.
- Hula Hoop Mania – Hula hoops were a huge craze in the 50s, and they’re guaranteed to be a hit at your party too! Provide a variety of hoops in different sizes and colours, and let the good times roll (or rather, spin!).
- Capture the Memories – Set up a photo booth with fun 50s photo booth props to capture the night’s memories. Think vintage hats, oversised glasses, signs with 50s slang like “groovy” and “rad,” and anything else that screams 1950s. Fun 50s cardboard cutouts will also be fitting and will make for a silly picture to look back on. Guests will love snapping pictures and taking home a souvenir of this blast from the past.
It’s All About the Vibe
The right 50s party props can transform your party space, transporting your guests to another time and setting the mood for an unforgettable celebration. From diner delights to rock and roll essentials, from feminine polka dots to classic greaser style for your guests, these details all work together to create a truly immersive 50s experience.
But remember, the most important ingredient is fun. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your personal touches. So, dust off those vintage finds, dig out the poodle skirts, and get ready to throw a 50s party that your guests will be raving about for years to come. With a little imagination and these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a memorable bash that captures the spirit of this iconic decade.
Australian Flow 