1950s vs. 1970s Skirt Styles: Which One Truly Speaks to You?

When you stand in front of your closet on a busy morning, it’s not just about “what to wear.” It’s about how you want to feel. Do you want the crisp confidence of a sharply tailored pencil skirt, or do you crave the effortless swing of a skirt that moves with you? At Rihoas, we’ve spent seasons studying those classic shapes and re‑imagining them with fabrics and fits that work for today.

Let’s walk through two iconic decades that shaped women’s style in very different ways—and see which one might feel like home to you.

Why These Eras Still Matter

The 1950s were all about structure. Designers carved out a silhouette that celebrated the waist, polished every seam, and created that unmistakable hourglass look. Slip into one of these skirts and you immediately feel composed, almost like you’ve stepped onto a movie set from a black‑and‑white classic.

Fast forward twenty years, and the 1970s rewrote the rules. Suddenly skirts didn’t have to hold you in—they could move, breathe, and say something about your personality. A suede A‑line in a warm earth tone, a denim midi that skims the legs… these pieces invite you to play, to bend the rules, to walk into a creative studio and feel right at home.

It’s not just history—it’s a choice between two moods.

The 1950s Mood: Sharp, Graceful, Assured

I often reach for a 1950s‑inspired pencil skirt on days when I need that extra sense of order. There’s something about the way it hugs the waist and skims the hips that instantly straightens your posture. You’re not just wearing a skirt—you’re making a statement that you value detail and intention.

What to try:

  • A high‑waist pencil skirt in deep navy or charcoal, matched with a tucked silk blouse. It’s a look that handles client meetings and late‑afternoon catch‑ups equally well.

  • A full circle skirt with a fitted knit top. Add a slim belt, and suddenly a regular Thursday feels like a special occasion.

These skirts don’t shout for attention. They whisper elegance.

Coffee Ruched Pencil Midi Skirt
Women's Woven Polyester Skirt Bottoms - RIHOAS

The Argyle Cardigan And Mini Skirt Set

The 1970s Mood: Relaxed, Creative, Alive

On the other hand, there are days when I want my outfit to feel like an exhale. That’s when I pull on a 1970s A‑line. There’s space to move, to cross your legs easily at your desk, to dash out for coffee without feeling restricted.

What to try:

  • A tan corduroy A‑line with a cream turtleneck—soft textures that feel as good as they look.

  • A denim midi with a cropped blazer, mixing the casual with something more structured.

These pieces bring a quiet confidence, like you know who you are and you don’t need rigid lines to prove it.

The Floral Slit High Waisted A-line Skirt

The Vintage Floral Split Side Skirt Black Bottoms - RIHOAS

 

Choosing What’s Right for You

Think about your week. Are there days when you want that polished, cinematic feel? A 1950s cut will give you that focus. Do you work in an environment where you can experiment, where comfort and self‑expression matter just as much as formality? Then the 1970s pieces might feel like a breath of fresh air.

Of course, you don’t have to choose one forever. Some of my favorite outfits blend the two—like pairing a flowing A‑line with a sharply tailored jacket. It’s about building a wardrobe that feels like you.

Ready to Find Your Piece?

Take a look at our Rihoas Skirt. Each skirt is designed with today’s fabrics, but with a deep respect for these timeless silhouettes. Whether you want to walk into the office feeling sleek and structured or step out feeling free and effortless, there’s a style waiting to tell your story.

Sometimes the right skirt doesn’t just change your outfit—it changes your whole day.

Juli 15, 2025 — Rihoas1David