What to Wear to a Sock Hop
Sock hops came of age in the 1950s in the United States. A sock hop was a high school or college dance that featured then-current music, fashions and dances. Most sock hops were hosted on the basketball gym floor, so shoes were not allowed--hence why teenagers were dancing around in their socks.
Men's Attire
Before deciding what to wear to a sock hop, men should decide which type of 1950s character they would like to portray. A greaser can dress like the character Danny Zuko in "Grease" and wear a white T-shirt, cuffed blue jeans and a black leather motorcycle jacket. Greasers also wear elaborately combed longer hair, often in the style of James Dean. The goal of the greaser is to appear slightly dangerous, like a rebel.
Preps are another character men can portray. A prep traditionally wears button-down shirts, pressed pants, penny loafers, blazers and narrow ties. His hair is neat and cut short, sometimes in a flattop buzz.
Jocks are neatly dressed like preps but often wear their varsity letter sweaters or jackets everywhere.
For a more non-conformist look, men can dress up like a beat poet in a black turtleneck, skinny jeans and thick, black glasses.
Women's Attire
Women have several fashion options when it comes to deciding what to wear to a sock hop.
To look like a prep's girl, women can wear a poodle skirt or other full skirt over a taffeta crinoline to make the skirt puff out and appear full. A sweater set or a blouse with a Peter Pan collar as well as a pair of saddle shoes will complete this look.
To look more like a greaser's girl, women can wear more fitted, pencil skirts, as well as sweaters that are more fitted. Cat eye glasses, beehive hairdos, and a chiffon scarf tied around the neck complete this look.
For a fun look, women can put on a pair of roller skates and dress in a drive-in carhop's uniform; don't forget to chew a piece of pink bubblegum.
Celebrity Attire
There are several celebrities from the 1950s whom men and women can dress up as for a sock hop. Men can dress like celebrities such as the young Elvis or James Dean. Women can dress like the famous blond siren, Marilyn Monroe, or like a glamorous and sophisticated movie star such as Elizabeth Taylor or Audrey Hepburn.
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