The era of mid-century cocktail parties in the United States was a uniquely glamorous time. It was a time during which women made bold fashion statements, drinks were mixed to perfection, and entertaining in one’s home was taken to a fabulous new level.
It’s easy to understand the appeal of cocktail parties in the 1950s and early 1960s. These were years of relative happiness and prosperity for many Americans. World War II was over, the Vietnam War was not impacting as many Americans as it did in later years, and the economy was more prosperous than it had been in the 1930s and 40s. The rationing of the World War II era was over, and Americans were free to embrace more lavish social activities.
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And for those of us who love to dress up in beautiful clothes and jewelry, the cocktail party apparel and accessories from the mid-century era are something to swoon over.
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In addition, the music was smooth, soulful, and fun.
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So when did cocktail party culture originate? It is said to date back to the 1920s. In fact, the first cocktail party on record is said to be one that took place in St. Louis in 1917 (the site of that party, a mansion, is still standing today, and serves as the local Archbishop’s residence).
1950s cocktail party culture gave birth to the little black dress that we know today. V-back, knee-length dresses were in vogue, as were gorgeous strapless satin frocks:
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As shown in the picture above, elbow-length gloves sometimes made an appearance at the more formal cocktail parties, as did bold jewelry in the form of pearls and colorful baubles. We still use the term “cocktail jewelry” today to refer to semi-precious rings, bracelets, and necklaces that are often bold and colorful.
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And don’t forget about the hats and the handbags! Accessories like these were just as important of a component of ladies’ fashion statements as their dresses were:
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When the late 1960s and 1970s arrived, that era brought with it more casual clothing and more casual choices in entertaining and beverages. Young people became more inclined to kick back around a bonfire with a can of beer than to be dressed to the nines, enjoying a hand-mixed cocktail and an elegant atmosphere.
The good news is, those of us who crave the refined sophistication, beautiful fashion, amazing drinks, and gorgeous glassware and decor of the 1950s and 60s can still capture that glamour and recreate the mid-century cocktail party with a few fun twists to make it mid-century modern.
Be sure to check back next week, when we will give you the recipes for some delicious cocktail party food!
Until next time,
Kathie
Retro Party Central 