WORK the Hollywood filmstar look with vintage style.

Chic, stylish and oh so very sexy, those 1950s movie stars knew how to work their wardrobe for maximum impact wherever they went.

If you can’t get enough of Marilyn Monroe, Jane Russell or Grace Kelly, then read on to find out how to recreate the high impact look that helped keep them firmly in the limelight.

Flaunt that waist: Forget anything that skims, flops or drapes! Closely fitted and tightly contoured, 1950s are firmly focused on the waistline. Jackets and knits are short, dresses feature multiple tucks and darts for a figure hugging silhouette and when it comes to separates, a tucked in blouse is essential.

Drop the hemline: Remember Vivienne in “A Streetcar Named Desire”? Or Marilyn in that dress in “Some like it hot”? The skirts on those dames ended below the knees, in stark contrast to the mini trend of later decades. Not only does a midi skirt conceal a knobbly knee, it also offers a hint of intrigue that is enormously alluring.

Hats are an absolute essential: Feminine, sophisticated and an essential staple of any 1950s outfit, a hat can make or break a vintage ensemble. Team with a matching bag and heels for classic coordination or use a contrasting colour to provide some visual interest to a monochrome coat or dress.

A suitably striking headpiece is a must have evening staple, or rock a hot contemporary look by teaming a retro hat with a modern dress or separates.

1950s movie actresses managed to look their best no matter what they were doing.

Emulate their look with genuine vintage clothing, which showcases the best of the era wonderfully well. Whether you opt for a beautiful ball gown or splash out on separates, teaming retro garments to achieve that glamorous appeal that characterised a bygone age, vintage clothing can utterly transform your wardrobe.

Put up your hair, slip on that vintage dress and get ready to epitomise the elegance and irresistible attraction that characterised the leading actresses of the 1950s.

Emma Brown is the owner of My Vintage, The Circus, Darwen
Telephone: 01254 774701  Website: www.myvintage.co.uk