1950
Dior's "Vertical" collection introduces the sheath.

Claire McCardell continues to design her simple, functional, American fashions.

1952
In an attempt to restrict unauthorized knock-offs, The French government rules that couture designs can be copyrighted for the duration of one fashion season.

1954
Chanel re-opens her couture house with her first collection since 1939.

1955
Dior's "A-Line" (Spring) and "Y-Line" (Fall) collections.

Mary Quant's boutique, Bazaar, opens on the King's Road, London.

Chanel introduces her diamond-quilted handbag with interlocking-C clasp.

Publication of Sloan Wilson's The Man in the Grey Flannel Suit

1957
Death of Christian Dior; his successor is the 21-year-old Yves Saint Laurent, who launches the "Trapeze" line with his first collection the following year.

Balenciaga introduces the chemise, dubbed "the sack" in the U.S.

Hubert de Givenchy designs Audrey Hepburn's wardrobe in Funny Face, a Hollywood romantic comedy set in the fashion world.