• Add an authentic touch to a faux USO show by providing your entertainer with a classic 1950s microphone.back to the 50s - retro image by iMAGINE from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>
  
  Drag races, drive-ins, poodle skirts, and crew cuts. The good, clean American fun of the 1950s has provided party themes since the decade ended. As the decade when the American teenager became a demographic to be reckoned with, it's no wonder typical '50s parties tend toward teen staples of the decade portrayed in "American Graffiti," "Happy Days" and "Grease." Party planners looking to avoid the typical can consider a 1950s party theme that focuses on other events of the decade.
  
  

Sadie Hawkins Sock Hop

• Inspired by the 1930s cartoon strip, "Li'l Abner," Sadie Hawkins dances became the rage on high school and college campuses in the 1950s. A twist on the typical Sock Hop, the Sadie Hawkins Dance was the only occasion at which girls were required to ask guys to the dance, as asking for a date was considered forward at the time. Play some classic Elvis rock, request guests to come attired in crinolines and rolled up jeans, and require shoe removal before the dancing begins just like they used to in order to protect the gymnasium floor for a classic 1950s party.
  
  

Pumps and Pearls Party

• The stereotype of the typical American housewife was born from the image portrayed by happy homemakers on classic television shows like "Leave it to Beaver," "Father Knows Best" and "I Love Lucy." Pay homage to this bygone era of high heels, hors d'oeuvres, aprons and pearls with an afternoon tea or formal dinner. Hit your local thrift store to pick up a couple of cookbooks from the 1950s as most include classic party planning tips as well as period-appropriate recipes.
  
  

USO meets M*A*S*H

• While the television series may have been filmed in the 1970s, M*A*S*H is based on the Korean War which occurred in the early 1950s. Put up a little camouflage, play a little big band music and serve a plethora of martinis to guests in uniform for a classic M*A*S*H affair. For military-themed '50s parties with a bit more formality, stage a USO camp show with a Bob Hope, Marilyn Monroe or Debbie Reynolds impersonator to perform and ask guests to don formal dress uniforms.