What to Wear

Gentlemen

A gentleman will always look debonair wearing a blazer, turn-up flannels, accompanied by a cravat, a Panama or Homburg hat and don’t forget a touch of Brylcreem, of course. A rolled-up umbrella, cigarette holder or eye-glass will finish off a top-class and sophisticated look that even Cary Grant or Terry Thomas would admire.

A country gentleman might wear a sports jacket, trousers and braces, with check shirt, tweed hat or flat cap, and a woven tie. Accessories could include a pipe, binoculars in leather case and a shooting stick for that ‘James Herriott’ look.

Perhaps you might prefer a mechanic’s white cloth overall (with charcoal for oil stains), leather boots, and accompanied by a flat cap, leather belt and clockwork stopwatches; alternatively, be a ‘rebel’ and dress as a Mod or Rocker!

A man in uniform is always a pleasant sight for the ladies, so why not wear an Army or RAF uniform from the period.

Source: http://www.goodwood.co.uk/site/content/revival/Getting-the-Look_Gentlemen.aspx

Ladies

For that sophisticated couture look, epitomised by Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn, try wearing a voluminous dress clinched with wide belt, slender high heels, glamorous hat with matching sleek gloves, and seamed nylon stockings.  Striking make-up with polished ‘de rigeur’ look, dark eyeliner, false lashes and bright red lipstick is essential to complete this immaculately groomed look.

If the classical style of the English country garden is more appealing, how about a floral summer frock or twin set and pearls and matching tweed suit, accompanied by a ‘church’ hat, fox fur, small handbag and gloves to match.  A little bit of rouge wouldn’t go amiss either – Miss Marple and her friends would doubtless approve.

For a more daring, casual look, try a flared skirt with petticoat, topped with a brightly coloured jumper.  Or maybe a pair of trousers or capri pants and short-sleeved blouse, with pumps or deck shoes, and bright scarf knotted ‘cowboy’ fashion at the neck.  Dark sunglasses and vibrant red lipstick were also an iconic fashion of the era – think ‘Marilyn Monroe’.

For that post WWII era, why not try a uniform, always a smart and neat alternative?  Be a WREN, land girl, police woman or nurse for the day!

Source: http://www.goodwood.co.uk/site/content/revival/Getting-the-Look_Ladies.aspx

Need an outfit?

The New Zealand Festival of Motor Racing recommends a visit to Gracey's Costume Hire in Pukekohe (website www.graceys.co.nz).