Get into Character with these 1950s Film Personas
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Natalie is a Sydney-based content specialist who is a true creative at heart. She enjoys photography, fashion and reading classic literature.
Perfect your 50s party look all the way down to the way you walk with our selection of iconic 50s movie characters.
From 50s inspired movies, to films of the era, we’ve compiled all the essentials for you to achieve an authentic 50s persona for your event.
Sandy - Grease
Image Source: Pinterest
Where to Watch the Movie?: Stan, Disney+, Foxtel, Netflix.
Character Synopsis: Labelled too pure to be pink, Sandy is the innocent and sweet new girl at Rydell High.
Traits to Embody: Softly spoken, well-mannered, walk gracefully with a soft, feminine stride, giggles shyly.
How to Achieve the Look: 50s preppy style - think poodle skirts, blouses and cardigans. For hair, accessorise with ribbons, bows and flowers. Natural makeup look.
Catchphrase: “I'm hopelessly devoted to you.”
Rizzo - Grease
Image Source: Pinterest
Where to Watch the Movie?: Stan, Disney+, Foxtel, Netflix.
Character Synopsis: The unofficial leader of the Pink Ladies, Rizzo is bold and assured.
Traits to Embody: Walk with confidence, hand on hip, slight hip sway, flirtatious, quick-witted - always have a one-liner comment at the ready.
How to Achieve the Look: Curled pixie-cut hair. Form fitting shirts, shorts and pencil skirts. A good red lippy is a must.
Catchphrase: “Peachy keen, jellybean.”
Danny - Grease
Image Source: Pinterest
Where to Watch the Movie?: Stan, Disney+, Foxtel, Netflix.
Character Synopsis: The definition of a cool kid, Danny is confident and charismatic.
Traits to Embody: Walk with swagger, talk with an air of cool, half smiles and smirks, and always comb your hair.
How to Achieve the Look: All black and leather jackets. A cigarette prop for added cool factor. And don’t forget the hair gel.
Catchphrase: “That’s my name, don’t wear it out.”
The Girl - The Seven Year Itch
Image Source: Reddit
Where to Watch the Movie?: To purchase on Amazon Prime and Apple TV.
Character Synopsis: A former model and commercial actress, The Girl is the beautiful neighbour of the male protagonist.
Traits to Embody: Light, bubbly voice, playful and childlike bounce in your walk, subtle swap of hips, excellent posture, wide eyed innocence, beaming smile.
How to Achieve the Look: Monroe’s iconic platinum blonde curls. Red lipstick, a beauty mark and defined eyebrows. White halter neck dress. Check for wind gusts…
Catchphrase: “A stairway to nowhere! I think that's just elegant.”
Jo Stockton - Funny Face
Image Source: Pixels
Where to Watch the Movie?: SBS
Character Synopsis: Jo Stockton is a sales assistant at the local bookstore who becomes a high fashion model.
Traits to Embody: A practical and utilitarian walk, an intellectual, dry wit, articulate in the way you speak.
How to Achieve the Look: A black turtleneck, black pants or capris, along with black loafers or ballet flats. For hair, ponytails and updos. A minimal, no-makeup makeup look.
Catchphrase: “I suppose you think the neckline of a dress makes for world-shaking conversation?”
Don Lockwood - Singin’ in the Rain
Image Source: FT
Where to Watch the Movie?: HBO Max.
Character Synopsis: Don Lockwood is a successful silent film actor who is tasked with learning talkie pictures.
Traits to Embody: Walk with a spring in your step, quick on your feet, smooth talker and knows the right things to say, a natural entertainer, wide-toothed smile.
How to Achieve the Look: A simple slicked hairstyle with a middle part. Dress for gloomy weather with a raincoat and umbrella - just be sure to never open it, no matter how hard it's pouring.
Catchphrase: “I’m singing in the rain, just singing in the rain.”
Vince Everett - Jailhouse Rock
Image Source: Britannica
Where to Watch the Movie?: HBO Max.
Character Synopsis: Whilst in prison, Vince Everett learns the guitar and becomes a rock and roll star after his release.
Traits to Embody: Sharp footwork, fluid hip movements, a deep and seductive voice with a hint of arrogance, smouldering gaze.
How to Achieve the Look: A classic 50s pompadour hairstyle. Black and white striped shirt, black jacket and pants, and always carry a guitar.
Catchphrase: “Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.”
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Here’s a list of fabulous 50s movies and tv shows to watch or play in the background at your 50s themed party:
Roman Holiday
Rebel Without a Cause
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
An American in Paris
To Catch a Thief
Guys and Dolls
I Love Lucy
Father Knows Best
The Martin and Lewis Show
