How To Immerse Yourself in 1950s Culture through the Big Screen

by Lewis Robinson

If you've developed a love for everything related to the 1950s, then you may be wondering how you can more fully immerse yourself in 1950s culture. These days, there are plenty of ways you can learn more about your favorite decade and become a 1950s expert. Read on to learn about a few of them.

Start With the History

You can begin by learning as much as possible about the history of the 1950s. There are abundant websites, books and articles to read. Start with some overview sources, perhaps a website that provides a timeline for the decade or a book that presents its primary events and trends. Pick out a couple topics for further research, a person who is especially appealing, perhaps, or a style of music or clothing. You might even check out the newly released 1950 census records to get an idea of how your own family members lived at that point in time. You can make a list of other subjects to explore, but don't try to read about everything at once. If you work systematically, you'll soon become a 1950s expert.

Watch the Movies

Another way to immerse yourself in 1950s culture is to watch many of the decade's movies. Look for a list of top 1950s movies online, and then work your way down. You might also watch in a particular genre, like mysteries or teen flicks, or you could center your choices around a particular actor or actress like James Stewart or Marilyn Monroe. As you watch, make note of the movies' themes, clothing and hairstyles, language, music and other elements that capture the heart of the 1950s.

Listen to the Music

Don't forget to listen to plenty of 1950s music, too. You can begin by looking for playlists online or on your favorite music streaming service. Then develop your own playlists of your favorite artists and songs. You could even listen your way through the Billboard top 100 list for the decade or search for individual weekly lists published during the 1950s. You should listen to popular songs, but also try to discover lesser-known gems across a variety of genres for a more complete musical experience.

Wear the Clothes

If you really want to make the 1950s your own, then wear the clothes of the decade. Old catalogs are the perfect source for 1950s fashion. Look for some in thrift stores, antique shops or even online. You can see fantastic examples of men's, women's and children's clothing, hats and shoes. Sometimes you may be able to find vintage clothing from the era. Otherwise, you can look for sewing patterns and have some reproductions made. You might select a particular style for yourself, or you could dip into a variety of styles, one for each of your moods.

Attend Events

Of course, you'll need a place to wear all that wonderful clothing. Look for 1950s themed events in your area. These may be everything from concerts to car shows. Watch for advertisements from museums or historical societies, and see if you can join a 1950s special interest group.

Throw a Party

If you can't find many events to attend, then throw one yourself. A 1950s party will be a big hit with your friends and relatives. Plan a 1950s menu from old cookbooks, and ask everyone to come in costume. Entertainment might be music and the dances of the decade, movies, trivia and 1950s party games. Your decorations should reflect the era, too, right down to your invitations, centerpieces and door prizes.

Decorate Your Home

Finally, make your home a 1950s retreat. Shop around for vintage furniture, and look at women's magazines from the era for decorating tips. If you don't want to redo your whole house, start with one room, and go all out with 1950s colors and designs. Try to stay authentic, though, rather than fall prey to stereotypes.

Your love of the 1950s can be an enjoyable hobby. So immerse yourself in the culture of the decade, and most of all, have fun.