There are some things we love about the 1950s—midcentury furniture design and the period’s full-skirted, ladylike fashions, for example. Things we appreciate a little bit less? The comically cringe-worthy dating culture and the way women were instructed to behave in order to attract a partner. Yes, in this case, “old-fashioned” is an epic understatement for just how ridiculous the advice in ladies journals of the time was. Read on for some 100% authentic “wisdom” women of the period were treated to, and breath a sigh of relief that times, they are a-changin’.
But one of the most surprising discoveries from taking a nostalgic look at the 1950s involves the strict “rules” of courtship. Back then, rules like “never drop your silverware on a first date” weren’t seen as overly strict — they were just the norm.
Don’t sit in awkward positions and never look bored. Be alert, and if you must chew gum, do it silently, mouth closed.
MEN DON’T LIKE girls who borrow their handkerchief and smudge them with lipstick. Makeup in privacy, not where he sees you.
BE READY to go when your date arrives; don’t keep him waiting. Greet him with a smile!
IF YOU NEED a brassiere, wear one. Don’t tug at your girdle, and be careful your stockings are not wrinkled
