When Downton Abbey first aired in 2010, nobody had anticipated its phenomenal success. Not only did it make the jump across the pond to America, a
fifth series has just been announced, with plans to be aired next year.
The success of Downton has triggered an influx of period dramas. The BBC’s Call the Midwife, set in the 1950s, is another show with a historical setting that has received high acclaim. Such shows have had an influence on fashion, with many high-street stores stocking vintage-inspired pieces.
This handy guide will take you through all of the essential pieces needed to create a fabulous Downton-inspired look.
Lace dress
Unless you were in mourning, ladies tended to wear light-coloured clothing that enhanced their natural complexion. When choosing a dress, you should go for typically feminine styles. Lace, chiffon and embroidery will all work well.
Available from ASOS, this
cream midi lace dress would be an ideal choice for a traditional look. The midi-length and lace material are classically girly, while the wrap detail to the back adds a contemporary twist.
Footwear
Your whole Downton look can be ruined if you don’t have the appropriate footwear. Skyscraper heels that fill the high-streets simply won’t cut it in creating a traditional look.
Choose a court shoe with a small block heel. Try to avoid sandals as these weren’t widely seen as a fashionable shoe until the 1940s.
If you intend to wear your Downton-inspired look during the day, you should consider wearing a pair of
ballet shoes. Available from
Dancemania, the soft colours of these shoes will help to transform you into a classic English rose.
Necklace
During the period, jewellery remained simple and understated. A simple pearl necklace will help to add detail to your look, without straying from the theme. Real pearls can be expensive to buy, but you can get some really genuine-looking imitation ones, like
these from John Lewis.
Simple pearl earrings and an elegant up do will finish off the look perfectly.
Also, since my bathing suit no longer fits me, I found this beautiful retro-looking one at Target. Now, the front part does come down a little low for my taste, so I'll be buy a bandeau to wear underneath (since the suit is in a halter-style). Otherwise it is simply adorable and looks very 1950s. 
