Misses XS-2XL Our Fifties’ Fit & Flair sewing pattern creates the typical dress shape so successful is has resurfaced decades later.  Aside from teenage fads like poodle skirts and saddle shoes, fashions of the 1950’s were remarkably clean, simple, and flattering. After the fabric-conserving war-time styles, skirts became longer and much fuller, beginning with Dior’s New Look in 1947. American designers were challenging Paris by producing well-made, affordable ready-to-wear collections which responded to women’s needs for femininity and practicality. Dolman sleeves, fitted waist, and a gored circular skirt compliment most figures now as then.