50s Poodle Skirt Costume
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The poodle skirt was the must-have look for teenage girls at 1950s sock hops, and it’s still the go-to costume for decades day, 50s parties and school dances. It’s cute, easy to make and pairs perfectly with a greaser for a couples costume.
What Makes It Work
The skirt is the star. A full felt circle skirt in pink, light blue or black, knee length, with a poodle appliqué near the hem and a chain or ribbon “leash” running up to the waist. Felt doesn’t fray, so you can cut one from a single piece with no hemming.
On top, a fitted white blouse or a short cardigan buttoned up, with a small neck scarf tied to the side.
Finish with a high ponytail tied with a ribbon or scarf, white bobby socks folded down, and black-and-white saddle shoes or white sneakers. Red lipstick and cat-eye liner for adults.
What People Get Wrong
A flat, limp skirt. A poodle skirt needs volume, so wear a tulle petticoat underneath. The other miss is forgetting the poodle and leash, which turns it into a plain circle skirt.
Buy It or Build It?
Poodle skirt sets with a scarf run $20 to $35. DIY takes about a yard and a half of felt, a felt poodle and some ribbon, under $15.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | What they carry | |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Costume kits, wigs and accessories | Shop on Amazon |
FAQ
How do I make a poodle skirt?
Cut a full circle skirt from felt, add an elastic waistband, glue on a felt poodle near the hem and run a ribbon leash up to the waist.
What do you wear with a poodle skirt?
A fitted blouse or cardigan, a neck scarf, a high ponytail, bobby socks and saddle shoes.
What couples costume goes with a poodle skirt?
A greaser in a white tee, cuffed jeans and a leather jacket.
How do I make a poodle skirt puffy?
Wear a tulle petticoat or crinoline underneath.
Next up: Greaser Costume
See Also
Free: The Last-Minute Costume Cheat Sheet
Ten costumes you can make tonight, mostly from your own closet. One page, printable, plus a short email before each costume season. No spam.