Shop the trend: '50s lady

Photo credit: Jonathan Saunders

The retro lady

We can’t help but fill our closets with our favorite trends this spring. Our current obsession? The new take on the classic ‘50s lady. We saw this oh-so-wearable trend on the runways of Raf Simons, Prada and one of our favorite London-based designers, Jonathan Saunders. Join us as we show you two different ways to shop this covetable trend.

The new '50s

Create your own updated version of January Jones’ Mad Men look by shopping for structured dresses, full skirts, boxy jackets and graphic prints for that ladylike look. To feel ultimately pretty, incorporate variations of pink into your ensemble, especially in a lace cap sleeve dress for the ultimate feminine statement.

The best part about stealing this trend is that every woman can look universally flattering in a '50s style A-line dress or skirt because the silhouette hides any problem areas in the upper legs. If you are a little more petite, try a skirt that hits above the knee to elongate your legs. If you’re taller, one to the knee or just past the knee will give you the total Marilyn Monroe-glam look.

Topshop Sleeveless Lace Dress $96, Sam Edelman Yelena Ankle-Strap Sandal $140,
BCBGMAXAZRIA Croco Leather Clutch $160, Alex and Ani Expandable Wire Bangles $78,
Ralph by Ralph Lauren Cateye Sunglasses $89

Classic '50s with a twist

When we think of the 1950s, Lucille Ball in polka dots immediately comes to mind. Who doesn’t want to embody the iconic funny girl? A black and white option above the knee and closer to the body will give this classic trend a new modern twist. Plus, it’s unbelievably sexy. (Just make sure the dots aren’t large enough to make you look like a bullseye.)

The right accessories will also instantly perfect this look. Classic peep-toe pumps, a chain bag and oversize sunglasses basically scream '50s glamour. If you are opting for a black and white neutral dress, try a colored shoe in red or purple for that pop of color.

Suzi Chin Maria Polka Dot Dress $158, 80s Purple Round Vintage Sunglasses $12,
Forever 21 Lace Trimmed Earrings $5, Kate Spade Grand Street Kaley Bag $318,
Coye Nokes Mia Peep-Toe Heels $295

More spring trends

Shop the trend: Pastels
How will you wear your spring 2012 accessories?
10 Ways to wear the color of 2012: Tangerine Tango