The Tradwife Aesthetic: A Guide to Step Back in Time
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try trad wife if you’re feeling…
traditional
retro
nostalgic
feminine
vintage
timeline & influencers
While the term "tradwife" has been around since the early 2000s, the aesthetic gained traction in the late 2010s, propelled by Instagram and TikTok
Media influences include the tormented housewife, Betty Draper, on A&Es “Mad Men” television show
2019-2023 saw a rise of social media tradwives such as fashion model Nara Smith, author and reluctant influencer, Alena Kate Pettitt, and those who heavily monetize the trend, Hannah Neelman and Estee Williams
2024 saw the tradwife label go beyond the movement into a fashion influence of its own, with major brands showcasing designs heavily influenced by 1950s and early 1960s styles
Tradwife Aesthetic Gift Guide
50’s inspired cocktail dresses (sleeveless boatneck swing cocktail dress, Amazon)
Classic cardigan sweaters (3/4 sleeve cherries embroidery cropped cardigan, Amazon)
Vintage style aprons (striped cotton retro apron, Amazon)
Polka dot headbands (rabbit ear bow headbands, Amazon)
Gingham print tops (YARN & INK vintage puff sleeve top, Amazon)
Pearl necklace & earrings (faux multi-strand set, Amazon)
Similar Trends
Looking for a distinct aesthetic that harks back to a bygone era? Therein lies the polarizing tradwife aesthetic. Steeped in controversy, the nostalgic microtrend became popularized by TikTok #tradwives and celebrates traditional gender roles, domesticity, and a romanticized vision of mid-20th-century homemaking. Amidst the chaos of the world, people turn to nostalgia as a means of solace, resulting in the trend's popularity, reflecting a yearning for what may seem simpler times.
The tradwife aesthetic heavily borrows from the idealized image of the 1950s American housewife, with her perfectly coiffed hair, immaculate homemaking skills, and unwavering commitment to domesticity. While the tradwife aesthetic has garnered a dedicated following, it has also sparked debates and criticisms due to its origins in the tradwife movement. Proponents view it as a celebration of traditional values and a rejection of modern societal pressures, while critics argue that it promotes regressive gender roles and an idealized, unrealistic vision of domesticity. Despite the controversy, brands such as Calvin Klein, Poppi and Aritzia jumped on the viral trend with their 2024 designs, and some brands chose to collaborate with tradwife influencers.
Appeal and controversy boost the tradwife aesthetic
Regardless of your take, the tradwife aesthetic has left its mark on fashion and lifestyle, appealing to those seeking comfort and familiarity. As discussions on gender roles and societal norms evolve, its future remains unclear. Regardless, this trend has reignited conversations about style, values, and expectations, reminding us that fashion carries deeper cultural and ideological meanings.
Tradwife fashion aesthetic evokes 1950s glamour with headscarves and vintage accessories | Unsplash
Tradwife Style Guide: Where Nostalgia Meets Femininity
Fashion:
1950s and early 1960s silhouettes: full skirts, cinched waists, and modest necklines. Vintage inspired cashmere sweater sets.
Traditional patterns: Floral prints, polka dots, gingham patterns, and vibrant colors such as bright yellow are common, often paired with pearls and other vintage-inspired accessories.
Hair:
Coiffed hair and updos: With a nod to the iconic looks of the mid-20th century, choose perfectly coiffed curls, victory rolls, and immaculate updos.
Vintage hair accessories: Accessorize with scarves, headbands, and vintage hair clips for a touch of nostalgia.
Makeup:
Not heavy, more polished: Keep it simple with makeup that keeps a natural yet polished look. Focus on rosy cheeks and a coat of mascara.
Bold lip colors: Bunk the muted makeup with bold lips coated in shades of red or pink.
Accessories:
Old-school charm: Choose pearls, brooches, and vintage-inspired handbags as staple accessories for the tradwife look.
Domestic touches: Go all-in on the aesthetic with aprons, often adorned with floral or gingham patterns. Aprons are not only functional (obviously, when cooking) but also serve as a nod to the domestic ideals of this aesthetic.
Nails:
Well-groomed: Neatly manicured nails are a hallmark of the tradwife aesthetic, with classic shades like red, pink, and coral being popular choices. For a fun touch of retro charm, add some polka dots.
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