What Jewelry Was Popular in the 1950s? Iconic Trends Explained

Missing the glittering times of the 1950s? Well, that decade was way more than swing dresses and rock 'n' roll. It had its golden era for dazzling jewelry trends. But what were these trends?

The 1950s were epitome classy and glamorous: big statement necklaces, elegant brooches, and pearl strands as common as the day is long. They mirrored post-war optimism.

Think of classic designs by Hollywood icons Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. The elements of glitz and glamour were all around. But they are not forgotten. These trends still seem to reflect in today's design influences.

Eager to explore the same particulars? Let's plunge into the world of 1950s jewelry and its iconic charm.

Pearls as a Staple

In the 50s, pearls were more than just jewelry. They represented elegance and beauty. Women loved pearls because they never went out of style. They wore them with all kinds of clothes – from simple suits to fabulous evening gowns.

Wearing one string of pearls showed you had daytime style. Lots of women wore them with pretty tops or smart tea dresses. But if there was a party? You’d see lots of guests in multiple strands, looking expensive and well-dressed.

Film stars such as Audrey Hepburn helped make pearls a must-have accessory.Fans will remember her long necklace from Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

And it wasn’t only people in Hollywood who liked them. Famous women, including Jacqueline Kennedy, wore pearls, too – showing that they were great for many occasions.

It didn’t matter if you were getting married or simply going to a barbecue. Pearl jewelry will always help you look your best.

Styling Tip for Today

No need to worry. Pearls are still in style – just as much now as back in the day! Take a minimalist approach for everyday wear by teaming a single strand with either a clean white shirt or a midi dress.

When evening rolls around, ramp up your look by layering pieces of different lengths. Or consider opting for a 52-inch pearl necklace. These statement pieces work a treat with off-the-shoulder gowns or jumpsuits.

For those who like something edgier, why not mix classic pearls with modern jewelry? Gold chains or pendants that have sharp angles? Or wear a baroque bangle?

Today’s trendsetters will love wearing shimmery studs alongside an ear cuff designed for pierced lobs. It creates a cool new silhouette. Don't be afraid to experiment!

Diamond and Gemstone Jewelry

Diamonds were definitely women's best friends in the 1950s. Glimmering diamond engagement rings become the eternal symbol of love. They were designed in a traditional round or marquise cut.

These diamond-studded cocktail rings took over to become the wear for evening parties. They personified the glamour and sophistication of the time.

Meanwhile, the colored gemstones-rubies, emeralds, and sapphires-took center stage in turn. Framed in ever-more elaborate settings, they shone bright with optimism, capturing post-war prosperity.

They were not just the favorites of civilians. Hollywood royalty also cherished these colorful treasures. Take Elizabeth Taylor, for instance. She indeed had some pretty impressive pieces in her jewelry collection that were perfect examples of the trend.

Styling Tip for Today

Add some sparkle with a '50s-inspired accent in a modern gemstone jewel. The juxtaposition of a diamond cocktail ring against a chic monochrome outfit creates a stunning focal point.

Otherwise, wear delicate sapphire necklace or ruby earrings to add colour to your fashion. For that killer evening look, wear different kinds of stone rings together. Alternatively, stack dainty gemstone bangles next to plain diamond ones.

The trick is finding the right balance. Let one piece really pop and the remaining accessories tasteful, yet subtle.

Gold and Silver Metals

The 1950s was characterized as a "golden" period- and for good reason. Yellow gold held sway in the world of jewelry, capturing the mood and prosperity of the time.

Taking cues from contemporary art movements, jewelers created abstract motifs. They flowed like nature or followed geometric patterns. Pieces like bracelets, big necklaces, and cuffs were de rigueur, giving every outfit a touch of elegance plus warmth.

Platinum, along with white gold, also hogged the limelight. At weddings, brides especially opted for jewelry in these cool tones that complemented diamonds. So well, in fact, that overall, you got an effortlessly chic look.

After dark, platinum jewelry set off by gems or pearls offered women intricate yet refined designs that screamed sophistication (not literally!).

And don’t forget daytime jewels. Hollywood icons such as Grace Kelly and royalty figures such as England’s Queen Elizabeth II wore both types of metal. They prove their value beyond doubt, be it everyday clothing or high fashion evening wear.

Styling Tip for Today

Timeless gold and silver can be given a 1950s vibe with a modern twist to bring the look into the 21st century. To look chic during the day, wear several delicate yellow-gold necklaces over a plain dress or blouse.

For just a hint of old-school glamour, add some textured gold hoop earrings. For evening wear, choose white gold or platinum jewelry. A bracelet featuring lots of diamonds or a neat choker made from white gold looks great with formal clothes.

Don’t worry about only wearing one color of metal. Stacking rings or bangles made from yellow, white, and rose gold gives your look an edge – and a cool kind of elegance.

Fashion Trends and Influence

In the 1950s, jewelry mirrored the era’s refined and womanly fashion trends. The prevailing style was for well-cut dresses, fitted blouses, and nipped-in waists. So, rather than making their own bold statement, accessories were there to accentuate chic silhouettes.

A must-have item in any wardrobe at this time would be a brooch. These were often fastened to lapels or perhaps at the waist to highlight an hourglass figure. 

For something with a little everyday sparkle but not too OTT, you might choose small pendants hanging from fine chains.

Charm bracelets had a moment, and it’s easy to see why. They allowed for some individual expression while still being fun. That travel memento or tiny heart said something about you – as did each milestone symbol.

When it came to earrings, however, there was nothing understated going on. Clip-on earrings became all the rage. They featured bold floral patterns and geometric designs that framed women’s faces in distinctive ways.

Celebrities from Marilyn Monroe to Grace Kelly had fallen head over heels for Hollywood’s newest accessory. On-screen or off, the two silver screen goddesses could be seen wearing them. And regular women wanted to look glamorous and sophisticated too!

Styling Tip for Today

If you want to give a nod to 1950s jewelry fashions with a modern twist, consider wearing an old-fashioned brooch on a fitted dress or blazer. 

You can also wear a charm bracelet to add personality and levity to your outfit. And if some of the charms are new, that’s even better!

Clip-on earrings are making a comeback. But if you would rather wear something contemporary, find big floral or geometric studs so your look is retro-cool. These versatile pieces go with everything.

Costume Jewelry Boom

During the 1950s, costume jewelry became popular as an affordable way for women everywhere to imitate Hollywood style. This type of jewelry had previously been worn mostly by wealthy people.

Now, anyone can buy sparkly accessories at reasonable prices. Rhinestones, acrylics, and fake pearls made it possible for women to wear jewelry that looked costly. And they didn't have to spend a lot of money.

Costume jewelry was designed to be noticed. Big rhinestone necklaces, wide bracelets, and colorful earrings jazzed up the tailored dresses. The latter was so popular at the time.

Film stars, including Marilyn Monroe, helped boost the trend for wearing glamorous yet cheap jewelry. They flashed pieces that ordinary women could own, too.

But these jewels were not only attractive. They also allowed their wearers to have fun. Women could choose from a range of colors, sizes, shapes, and styles to go with different outfits and moods.

Some companies became famous for making affordable pieces that resembled high-end jewelry. Trifari and Coro were two such firms. Today, their products are collectible items in their own right.

A necklace covered in rhinestones might be worn on a dinner date, while plastic bangles were an option for daytime wear. This was how costume jewels brought everyday glamour into women’s lives across the Western world.

Styling Tip for Today

Costume jewelry is a great way to take your outfit up a notch! Try wearing bright plastic bangles with patterns in the daytime. Or jazz up a plain t-shirt at night with an attention-grabbing necklace.

Speaking of evenings, why not go for old-style rhinestone studs or one of those really wide, sparkly chokers? They can make even the most modern clothes look retro-glamorous.

And don’t think you have to save your best “real” jewelry for another occasion altogether. Mixing expensive things with fun, cheap ones is totally now. Plus, it lets everybody see just how awesomely different you are from them.

Conclusion

The jewelry styles from the 1950s emphasized grace, style, and individuality. These were ideals that took hold as people worldwide recovered from World War II.

From forever pearls to glittering diamonds, multi-hued gemstones, and big costume baubles. These accessories continue inspiring today’s fashion-forward women.

Do you love clean-lined looks? What about quirky pieces that really stand out? Either way, adding a little '50s magic to your wardrobe can help jazz up everyday outfits. Why don’t you try it?