Tuesday, August 02, 2011

1955 Playwear

 Designers like Claire McCardell, Clare Potter, Tom Brigance and Carolyn Schnurer did wonders for  the American sportswear market as they embraced the casual styles that women wanted for weekends and holidays.  Why not take a cue from these 1955 photos and take your vacation wardrobe up a notch?

Above, Claire McCardell cotton pique pullover top in orange and hot pink worn over matching pink bloomers.  Sold for $28 in 1955 (about $236 in today's dollar.)

Classic white duck pants are rolled at the ankle and paired with a navy jersey top.  Both pieces by Glen of Michigan.  Sold for $18 in 1955 (about $152 in today's dollar.)

Jane Irwill takes black and white checked jersey and cuts it on the bias to change the pattern into diamond shapes.  The boat neck jersey and shorts are timeless classics.  Sold for $7 in 1955 (about $59 in today's dollar.)

 A cotton blouson top in navy and white dots and dash print is paired with navy and white cotton ticking shorts.  Bright yellow tassels accent the drawstring.  Both pieces by Georgia Kay.  Sold for $18 in 1955 (about $152 in today's dollar.)

A white duck romper with the surprise look of a man-tailored shirt by Claire McCardell.  Oh, that Claire....she was a genius!  Sold for $27 in 1955 (about $227 in today's dollar.)