1950s Popular Culture

The 1950s was the decade of change and transition, the world had largely recovered from World War II and the tensions of the Cold War were rising. In the 1950s, Australia underwent an economic boom, it was the era of full employment, high standards of living, good family values and the ‘suburban dream’ lifestyle.

During the 1950s the idea of a ‘teenager’ was formed. It soon became apparent that a new stage in life besides childhood and adulthood existed. Adolescents were displaying certain traits and were given a freedom that was unknown to previous generations. This promoted new ideas, perspectives, and attitudes that become known as Popular Culture.

Popular Culture or also know ‘Pop culture’ has impacted the lives of many people from

It gives people a new platform to express themselves. In the 1950’s, the fashion world was at its highest, there was no longer a shortage of fabric due to the war and the shadow of The Great Depression was lifted. A new evolution of fashion had started, women started wearing pencil dresses, stocking, polka dots, gloves and hats. Many Australian women drew their fashion inspiration from magazines such as Vogue. During this time the fashion industry was greatly influenced by overseas trends and superstars such as American movie star Marilyn Monroe and British actress Audrey Hepburn. A famous dress during this time was called the "halter dresses”, it was the white dress wore by Marilyn Monroe designed by Travilla which became a fashion icon. Another dress that was trending was the "pencil dress”. This particular dress emphasised the female form with an open neck, cinched waist and narrow hip. 1950s fashion was a transition from the conservatism, restraint and formality of the 1940s, to a freer and more informal style. Throughout this decade, both male and females became more fashion conscious. Teenagers were the driving force behind fashion in the 1950s. Up until this time, clothing trends had largely been set by fashion houses that catered to the adult

This was the first time in history that the Olympic Games were held in the Southern Hemisphere as well as outside of Europe and North America. All the sporting events were held within Australia expect the equestrian event due to Australia’s heavy quarantine regulations. In the1596 Melbourne Olympics a new tradition was born, inspired by John Wing, all athletes from different nations were allowed to parade together at the closing ceremony, instead of only their national teams, as a symbol of world unity. The Melbourne Olympics were the also the first to be aired on television live to a public audience. Stations TCN 9, HSV 7 and ABN 2 all aired the Olympics, although the precise arrangements for rights to televise particular events were not confirmed until three days beforehand. Australian involvement in international contests and promotion of the sport as a global event has helped introduce Australia as a sporting nation which is reflected in the popular culture