A group of women are beginning to express a longing for a bygone era through the rising trend known as the “Trad Wife Lifestyle” — a subculture that romanticizes the visual and cultural elements of 1950s America.
The “Trad Wife” lifestyle, short for “Traditional Wives” represents a movement in which women embrace traditional gender roles within marriage and family dynamics, reflected in their fashion choices with a preference for vintage-inspired clothing, modest attire, and a focus on femininity and elegance. They often dress in retro fit-and-flare dresses and share vintage artwork depicting apron-clad housewives attending to domestic duties.
As appealing as it may seem, the term “Trad Wife” has elicited varied responses. While some view it as a regression to submissive roles, others see it as a modern manifestation of traditional values. This lifestyle differs from conventional stay-at-home motherhood by rejecting aspects of modern feminism, such as the emphasis on the “girl-boss trend” and the challenges of contemporary work environments.
@theasiafrances Trad wives is a thing and they have a whole side of tik tok. They even made it in FOX News (👀). I tagged some people talking about the educational piece of it! I cant tag #kcdavis but she educates on it as well #tradwives #traditional #tradwivesclub #submission #redpilltiktok #passportbros ♬ original sound – The Asia Frances
The emergence of Trad Wives has been likened to significant shifts in fashion or culinary trends, reminiscent of reviving classic styles with a modern flair, akin to updating makeup techniques from previous decades to align with current beauty standards. This trend has garnered attention and discussion, particularly concerning its nostalgic evocation of the 1950s and the controversies it carries.
Central to the Trad Wife lifestyle is the choice to prioritize family duties over pursuing a career outside the home, focusing on childcare, supporting their partner, and managing household responsibilities.
This lifestyle finds a platform for celebration on social media, where women share their experiences and highlight the positives of this traditional family-centric approach. However, this exposure has also ignited debates about the intersection of tradition, modernity, and feminism, eliciting both criticism and admiration from various viewpoints.
While debates about submission and simplicity continue to fuel controversy among critics of the trend, certain aspects remain consistent in the Trad Wife lifestyle, particularly its very unique fashion elements.
To embody the Trad Wife vibe, consider opting for dresses with silhouettes such as full skirts, cinched waists, and patterns like florals or polka dots reminiscent of mid-century fashion. Modesty is a fundamental aspect of Trad Wife fashion, with a focus on covering more skin through longer hemlines, higher necklines, and sleeves that offer ample coverage, presenting a dignified and elegant appearance.
The emphasis on a feminine silhouette is also paramount in Trad Wife fashion, achieved through tailored pieces like pencil skirts, fitted blouses, structured jackets, and waist-accentuating dresses for a polished look. Also, the trend’s homemaker aesthetics reflect a domestic and nurturing role, with attire suited for daily tasks at home such as aprons, house dresses, cozy cardigans, and practical yet stylish footwear.
“Trad Wives” prioritizes investing in timeless and high-quality clothing, including well-tailored coats, blazers, and quality knitwear, complemented by accessories like pearl jewelry, vintage handbags, and elegant scarves. Hairstyles and makeup align with classic and polished looks, featuring vintage-inspired waves, elegant updos, or natural styles that enhance their features with understated makeup highlighting natural beauty.
The incorporation of traditional attire or cultural elements adds a personal and meaningful touch to their style, showcasing the diversity within the “Trad Wife” community. Beyond being a fashion statement, the “Trad Wife” aesthetic represents a practical lifestyle choice that eschews fast fashion trends in favor of lasting pieces.
The popularity of the Trad Wife subculture continues to grow, evident in the over 300 million views on TikTok related to the topic. Some of these platforms serve as guides for those interested in adopting the lifestyle, emphasizing themes like being a supportive spouse and channeling ultimate femininity through “Trad Wife” fashion.
Photo Credit/Pexels.com Checklist for “Trad Wife” fashion
Here’s a breakdown of the essential elements to keep in mind when creating an outfit to channel the Trad Wife aesthetic:
- Vintage-inspired dresses with full skirts or A-line silhouettes.
- Full-skirted dresses in floral prints or classic patterns like polka dots.
- A-line or pencil skirts that accentuate the waist.
- Midi or tea-length skirts.
- Blouses with higher necklines such as Peter Pan collars or modest V-necks.
- Fitted tops that enhance the silhouette without revealing too much.
- Feminine blouses with lace or ruffle details.
- Tailored blazers in neutral colors like navy, black, or beige.
- Trench coats or classic wool coats for a sophisticated outer layer.
- Vintage-inspired cardigans with buttons or delicate embroidery.
- Pearl necklaces, earrings, or bracelets.
- Vintage-inspired handbags such as structured satchels or frame bags.
- Scarves in silk or chiffon for a graceful accessory option.
- Low-heeled pumps, Vintage loafers, Oxford shoes, or Mary Jane shoes.
- Ballet flats with feminine details like bows or embellishments.
- Aprons with vintage or floral patterns.
- Cozy cardigans or robes for lounging at home.
- Classic hairstyles such as vintage waves, victory rolls, or elegant updos.
- Red lipstick for a touch of glamour and vintage-inspired flair.
Living the Trad Wife life is a fulfilling choice that brings purpose and joy to those who wholeheartedly practice it. It involves managing a traditional household, providing nurturing care, and embracing the values of this lifestyle.
While it’s not for everyone, those who choose it find a sense of belonging and fulfillment. With dedication, you can create a meaningful and enjoyable life as a Trad Wife. If you’re ready to start, now is the time to begin.
Photo: Hillshire Farm/Unsplash
