Prince Vincent of Denmark

At the table

Daily shopping with a payment book

Before widespread refrigeration and supermarkets, many families shopped daily for basic groceries using a small notebook to record purchases, which were paid for later at local specialty shops.

What people wore

The rise of women in pants

During the 1950s, teenage girls wearing tight-fitting, often checkered pants called slacks sparked outrage among the older generation. Jeans later became a unisex staple after their breakthrough in the 1960s.

Getting around

Bicycles and Horse-Drawn Travel in the 1950s

In the 1950s, many people still traveled locally by bicycle and horse-drawn vehicles like wagons. Private cars were rare, with most being pre-war models.

What it cost

Rising Food Prices 1950–1970

In 1950, a loaf of rye bread cost 1.17 kr. and a loaf of white bread cost 1.23 kr. By 1970, prices had risen to 2.50 kr. for rye bread and 1.04 kr. for a loaf of white bread, while butter increased from 6.70 kr. per pound in 1950 to 11.51 kr. in 1970.

Music

The Fanø dance tradition in Denmark

On the island of Fanø, a distinct tradition known as Fanø music and dance, including dances like sønderhoning and fannikedans, was performed throughout the 20th century using a set repertoire of about 120 melodies.

Daily life

Improving living standards in Danish homes

In the early 1950s, many families lived in small homes without a private lavatory, warm running water, or a bathroom. By 1970, housing standards had improved significantly, with 88% of homes having their own lavatory and 71% having a bathroom.