Why Are They called Poodle Skirts? Circle skirts first appeared in Harper�s Bazaar in 1949. These skirts got their name from the way they are made � they are literally a large circle of fabric with a hole cut out for the waist. Less expensive skirts were made using two pieces of fabric sewn together with two seams.

These circle skirts were made from many types of fabrics and often were quilted, hand-painted, embroidered or appliquéd. The circle skirt most often associated with the 1950�s is the poodle skirt. Poodle skirts were usually made from wool felt and were decorated with appliqués, embroidery, beading and/or spangles.

These first felt poodle skirts were appliquéd with poodles, hence their name. Later on, they were decorated with many other designs such as Cray fish or artist�s palettes. Teenagers especially liked poodle skirts with lavish appliqués, sequins and other decorations, and wore them to school as well as to parties.

Women in the 50�s always wore dresses or skirts. Most wore circle skirts that were plain. Circle skirts were sold in inexpensive clothing stores as well as in the high end stores. During the day, most women wore plain circle skirts.

Poodle skirts never caught on with the adult crowd, but were worn extensively by teenagers. Felt was inexpensive and easy to sew. Girls could have fun with the appliqués, adding a silvery telephone or black record surrounded by the words �See ya later, alligator.�