Our society tends to run on a 20-year Nostalgia cycle, but some of the attraction and appeal of specific decades never really go away. In the 1970s, twenty years after the 1950s, the '50s were oh-so-popular in certain groups but they still hold thrall over us today. What do you think of when you think of the ’50s, nearly 70 years ago now? If you’re like most people you think of bobbysocks, poodle skirts, and images like those in the Happy Days TV show with the “Fonz” Fonzarelli in his jeans and leather jacket. Do you remember the catchphrases of Mr. Cool? Here are three that no one can forget: “Aaay!” “Whoa!” and “Sit on it!”. This beloved show aired from 1974 into 1984
A big nod to the 1950s is the movie Grease with John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John! Between Grease and Happy Days, it seemed like a simpler time, but isn’t backward reflection usually?
Oh, and let’s not forget the slang you don’t hear much anymore that was a big part of the 1950s like Chrome Plated for when someone got really dressed up or Beat Feet when someone runs away very fast. Then there’s Cruisin’ for a Brusin’ when you’re looking for trouble! Copacetic, meaning everything’s alright. “Raz my Berries” when you’re really impressed and “You Dig?” when confirming someone understands you! Did you know the word “Kibosh” was made popular in the 1950’s meaning to stop something? There’s no denying the 1950s were a unique time unto their own!
Today, group costumes are the closest we can come to recapturing that bygone era in group themed costumed parties. So, brush up on your 1950 quotable expressions and get ready to go to the Hop! There’s so much fun to be had dressing up as a group costume effort to bring to life a golden era like the mid-1900’s!