From Library Journal
Often depicted as the era of bad taste, the 1950s usually evokes little more than poodle skirts and kidney-shaped tables in terms of style. However, as Marsh (also editor of the latest annual Miller's Collectibles Price Guide) points out, it was one of the most important periods in design history. It was the decade that brought high fashion to the masses, the clean look of Scandinavian design, and the expanded use of plastics and synthetic fibers. The results of these (and other) innovations are well illustrated in this book by photos of typical household items and appliances, clothing, costume accessories, toys, and games. References to popular design motifs and a time line of important events help to define attitudes and tastes of the time. Included are background information and current prices for the items. Although this work has British origins, prices are in American dollars. The final section, in which the author attempts to discuss the impact of films and pop music on design, is too brief. Nonetheless, this book would be an interesting and useful addition for all decorative arts collections.?Margarete Gross, Chicago P.L.Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.

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