The Fifties Americana look is a fun 'off-duty' style that manages to retain elegance and femininity; think three -quarter length trousers and cropped jumpers, cinched waists and A-line skirts. Influenced by films such as 'The Help, and 'My week with Marilyn', the Spring/Summer 2012 catwalks were full of US-inspired nostalgia. Prada's collection was a fiery tribute to the 1950's American automobile industry, while Karen Walker and Rochas gave a significant nod to the 1950s, Mad Men-style housewife. Seek out Cadillac motifs and swing skirts, frivolous prints and cat's eye sunglasses.
Here are the five best pieces to work with.
The sunglasses This covetable round-frame design of the 'Leonard', from New York's Illesteva matches yellow with tortoiseshell acetate for instant retro appeal. Dh733, Illesteva
The ring Bold is best when it comes to cocktail rings, which is why Kenneth Jay Lane's 22-karat gold-plated version, with oversized coral resin and crystal trim is a firm favourite. Dh677, Kenneth Jay Lane THE CLUTCH Never underestimate the easy allure of the clutch. This is design at its best- a contemporary take on a modern classic. Dh15,610, Chanel
The shoe Flamboyant, unique and eccentric- fantasy shoes are fast gaining momentum, and who other than Prada would design a shoe based on the Golden Era of automobile design? In this instance the 1959 Cadillac. Dhxxx, Prada
The scarf The intricate pattern and sprinkle of polka dots gives this scarf gives a very whimiscial feel, and with its clean, simple lines it this is an instant summer classic. Dh1570, Hermes