Poodle skirts and soda fountains will give your 1950s prom an authentic feel.
The 1950s is an iconic era in the United States that arguably asserted the teenager as a distinct trendsetting group. From rock 'n' roll to soda shops, teenagers of the 1950s were electing a separate style and culture from their parents' generation. Get into the spirit of lighthearted rebellion of the mid-twentieth century by choosing a 1950s-themed prom for your high school.
Sock Hop
Forget uncomfortable footwear and choose a "Sock-Hop" theme for the next prom.
Sock hops were usually held in the high school gym, so this theme will be accessible to prom committees with a budget. Upon arrival, everyone must remove their shoes and dance the night away in socks only. Provide a place at the entrance to store the shoes. To make the event authentic, hire a DJ or live band to play classic rock 'n' roll.
Soda Shop
In the 1950s, all the cool kids hung out at the soda shop after school. Invite your whole school to hang out and turn your prom into a soda-shop affair. Rent a dance floor that is black and white checkered and supply seating made of red vinyl. Burgers, fries, hot dogs, sundaes and soda should appear on the menu. Again, rock 'n' roll from the 1950s best rounds out this theme. Instruct your DJ to come with a list of available 1950s songs to create a human jukebox.
1950s Costume Party
The 1950s were more than just poodle skirts.
If you want to groove to modern music and create an ambiance with a contemporary d cor, you still can carry out a 1950s prom theme. Instead of focusing on big-ticket items such as decorations, let individuals decide if they want to give their prom a 1950s vibe. Suggest 1950s attire on the prom invitation. Remember, 1950s attire is not strictly relegated to poodle skirts, though these are fun, too. Organza dresses with many-layered petticoats and capped sleeves were a popular design for ladies. Pair with cat-eye glasses for an accessorized look. For the gentleman, suggest a leather jacket in lieu of the traditional blazer. Your prom can be simultaneously ultra-modern and retro-chic.
Musicals
The 1950s were the golden age for musicals; have the prom committee vote on a favorite 1950s musical and decorate accordingly. 1951's "An American in Paris" will provide a romantic setting with a faux Eiffel Tower and Seine river walk. Cater the night with popular French foods, including crepes and pastries galore. Or, the committee may choose "Singin' in the Rain," another popular musical starring Gene Kelly. Substitute rain with twinkling lights, and include a city street (the drama department can help contract a set) to add to the ambiance. At the beginning and end of the night, the DJ can play songs from the musicals to get prom-goers in the mood.
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