The allure of vintage fashion has captivated many, with its timeless charm and nostalgia-inducing appeal. The past five decades have witnessed the evolution of fashion trends, with the 50s, 60s, and so on, remaining a source of inspiration for today’s fashion enthusiasts. The enduring popularity of pleated skirts and flared knee-length dresses is a testament to their elegance and versatility.
As you stroll through the streets of major cities like New York or Los Angeles, you’re likely to spot women who draw inspiration from classic styles. Prints such as polka dots and gingham are instantly recognizable due to their familiarity and nostalgic value. Our comprehensive guide will demystify vintage dressing, providing you with the tools to create a precise vintage wardrobe.
We’ll delve into the best clothing items, share styling tips, and reveal secrets that will make shopping for vintage clothes a breeze. This self-explanatory guide will cover the basics of vintage dressing, including what it is, how to do it, and provide a plethora of outfit ideas, celebrity inspirations, and fashion advice on accessories, shoes, hairstyles, and makeup.
What is Vintage Dressing?
While vintage fashion often draws inspiration from past eras, such as the 1990s or even earlier decades like the 1920s, it’s essential to understand that genuine vintage pieces must be at least two decades old. This means that finding authentic clothing items from the 1950s, for instance, can be a challenge. To make up for this scarcity, many people choose to blend vintage pieces with modern attire. It’s crucial not to confuse vintage fashion with retro styles, as they have distinct differences.
The primary distinction lies in their origin: vintage refers to authentic items created during an older era, whereas retro is about modern creations that emulate a bygone era.
How Do You Dress Vintage?
A staple in vintage fashion is a short-sleeved blouse paired with a knee-length skirt. However, to create a fusion of vintage and modern trends, variations have been made to this classic combination. From the fitted blouses and pencil skirts of the 1950s to the capri pants and midi dresses of the 1970s, there are numerous styles to draw inspiration from. When shopping for vintage clothing, it’s essential to have a keen eye to spot authentic pieces.
Vintage fashion encompasses a wide range of styles, from bold patterns to plain chiffon, ripped denim jeans to tartan dresses. With so many options available, the possibilities are endless. To master the art of vintage dressing, start by defining the era you want to emulate. Each decade has its distinct style, and it’s crucial not to mix and match elements. Look for leading fashion icons of that era, such as Marilyn Monroe in the 1950s, for inspiration.
Watching movies and shows from your chosen era can also provide valuable fashion tips. For example, Regencycore Fashion enthusiasts may find inspiration in period dramas like Pride and Prejudice or Bridgerton. Don’t forget to pay attention to details, such as makeup, shoes, and accessories, which should coordinate with your outfit and be consistent with the era you’re aiming for.
Vintage Outfit Ideas for Girls
23 – Knee-Length Puffed Skirt
In the 1950s and 1960s, knee-length puffed skirts were all the rage. Chances are your mothers or aunts reminisce about their fondness for these styles. If you’ve ever been drawn to those iconic designs, it’s entirely possible to incorporate them into your modern wardrobe. One way to do so is by pairing a knee-length puffed skirt in a soft pastel hue with a bold contrasting top – much like the striking black and white animal print blouse tucked discreetly inside this vintage-inspired look.
22 – Styling Vintage Dresses
Dresses are often the most effective way to achieve a vintage look due to their elegant design and ease of styling. In contrast, retro or gypsy trousers can create a modern appearance that may not be in line with your desired aesthetic. When it comes to dresses, knee-length and floor-length options are particularly well-suited for capturing a truly vintage essence, evoking styles from the 1920s Charleston era through the 1950s rockabilly movement.
These lengths can be paired with various sartorial techniques such as pleats, A-line silhouettes, and asymmetrical designs. When it comes to necklines for vintage dresses and blouses, sweetheart, halter-neck, and boat-neck shapes are popular choices that cater to a range of shoulder shapes. Adding lace detailing is also a great way to elevate your look, as this luxurious fabric can add a touch of sophistication to any garment.
Lace can be incorporated into necklines, cuffs, hemlines, or even entire blouses and tops, but it’s generally best to match the color of the lace to that of the garment for a cohesive appearance. However, this rule can be broken when aiming for a bold, vintage rockabilly look, which often features bright colors and patterns like tartan and polka dots. The 1950s vintage style is characterized by knee-length hemlines, fitted silhouettes, and a focus on accentuating the waistline.
To achieve this look, accessorize your dresses and tops with belts to highlight your curves and narrow waist. When styling bold, contrasting colors can be used to add visual interest to your outfit. For the 1950s vintage style, I recommend focusing on primary hues like red, white, black, yellow, and blue.
21 – How to Rock Vintage Attire in Summers
Summer is the perfect time to indulge in vintage fashion, with a wide range of colors and styles at your disposal. One way to achieve a vintage look is by donning a plaid patterned shirt, which can be styled in various ways. For a crop top-inspired look, button up the top and tie a knot at the end. Alternatively, tuck the shirt into your denim shorts for a more relaxed vibe. Pair this with denim shorts and black leather ankle boots for a chic ensemble.
For a retro-chic romper look, consider pairing a sleeveless t-shirt or printed blouse with a denim onesie. For added flair, wear a striped crop top or fitted black and white shirt over the romper. Complete the outfit with a brown leather long-strap messenger bag and brown shades. Another vintage-inspired look involves combining high-waisted denim shorts with a floral print blouse for a BOHO-chic vibe.
Match your top with a light floral pattern featuring pastel flowers, and accessorize with sunglasses and a cowboy hat in a soft neutral shade that coordinates with the colors in your top. For teenage girls, button-down printed dresses are a timeless vintage option that can be worn to school or social gatherings. Pair these dresses with sneakers for a casual look or block-heel sandals for a more dressed-up occasion. Add some peach blush and glossy lips to freshen up your complexion.
20 – Monochromatic Vintage Ensembles
A monochromatic polka-dot ensemble may seem like an unconventional choice, but when executed thoughtfully, the result can be truly stunning. Imagine pairing a high-quality midi skirt in a subtle polka-dot print with a cozy fleece top and statement-making red sandals. Alternatively, you could opt for a sheer polka dot dress that adds a touch of elegance to any outfit.
19 – Capped Sleeve Dresses
Step into a timeless era by embracing pleated cap sleeves and monotonous prints reminiscent of the 1950s. A pastel-hued midi dress serves as the perfect foundation, elevated by bold red heels and lipstick for a look that’s sure to shine during the sun-kissed seasons of spring and summer.
18 – Bold Floral Prints
The trend of floral prints shows no signs of slowing down in the fashion world. In fact, their unique charm ensures they’ll remain a staple for years to come. Pair them with complementary floral heels or wedges for an added touch of whimsy and playfulness.
17 – 40’s Style Swing Dress
Elevate your look by pairing a swing dress with a chic bob cut featuring finger waves. To complete the outfit, opt for wedge sandals that will elongate your legs and create a harmonious contrast with the flowy dress.
16 – Two Piece Matching Set
Celebrities Trying Vintage Trends
Celebrities have long been known to draw inspiration from bygone eras, and vintage trends are no exception. Among the many stars who’ve paid homage to yesteryear’s styles, we can’t help but highlight a few of our favorites. Take Katie Holmes, for instance, who recently channeled her inner flapper on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Her 1920s-inspired ensemble consisted of black tights, a fringe skirt, an oversized black blazer, and the perfect finishing touch: a sleek, pulled-back braid.
Not to be outdone, Miley Cyrus also got in on the vintage action, wearing a metallic hooded gown from Yves Saint Laurent’s fall 1991 collection for her ‘flowers’ music video. And then there’s Bella Hadid, whose extensive collection of vintage handbags is always perfectly in sync with her outfit choices. Case in point: her effortless accessorizing with one of these bags during a Milan outing.
Vintage Accessories
15 – Brooches
The Victorian era’s resurgence in popularity has brought with it the revival of brooches as a staple accessory. No longer reserved solely for dresses, these stylish pieces have also gained traction as a chic accent for long coats, allowing individuals to effortlessly elevate their look.
14 – Padded Headbands
Throughout history, padded or puffy headbands have made appearances in various styles, from Regencycore’s elegant flair to 1990s grunge and even modern fashion. When paired with a thoughtful outfit, they can add a touch of sophistication and whimsy. For a deeper dive into the trend, be sure to explore our comprehensive post on Puffy Headband Trend.
13 – 1950’s Bandana Style
Elevate your style with a touch of bohemian flair! Add a dash of whimsy to your look by incorporating silk bandanas in playful polka dot and chequered prints into your hairstyle. Tie them around messy buns or experiment with different styling techniques to create unique, eye-catching looks. For inspiration, check out these innovative bandanna hairstyle ideas that will take your style to the next level.
Vintage Shoes
12 – 1930’s Oxford Dancing Shoes
11 – 1940’s Velvet Mary Janes
10 – 1950’s Inspired Rockabilly Heels
9 – T-Bar Heels
Vintage Hairstyles
Vintage hairstyles are deeply rooted in their respective eras. The Pin-Up look is characterized by its impeccable grooming and refined elegance, requiring precise pinning to achieve the desired effect. While a full fringe is acceptable, it’s relatively rare to see vintage ladies with loose, flowing locks. To elevate any vintage hairstyle, consider incorporating bows, feathers, or simple hair slides. It’s crucial to ensure that your style aligns with the era you’re aiming to emulate.
For instance, a 1950s-inspired look might incorporate a hairband or bandana, while simpler flower clips can also effectively capture the essence of this bygone era.
8 – 30s Inspired Hairstyles
In the 1930s, a new wave of hairstyling swept the nation – literally. Classic finger waves and simple hair clips became all the rage, characterized by precise definition and hold provided by strong sprays. Meanwhile, eyebrow grooming took an extreme turn with the rise of plucking to achieve extremely thin brows, adding to the overall feminine allure.
As the era progressed, a sense of neutrality began to emerge, influencing makeup trends towards cream, ivory, and natural tones that blended seamlessly into the overall look.
7 – Pin-Up Vintage Hairstyles
To achieve Marilyn Monroe’s iconic pin-up hairstyle, you’ll need just two essential tools: a curling iron and strong-hold hair spray. This timeless look requires minimal effort but maximum impact, making it perfect for anyone seeking to channel the Hollywood glamour of yesteryear.
6 – 1930’s Finger Wave Style
Step into a bygone era with the luxe finger wave hairstyle, reminiscent of a classic 20th-century look. Perfectly suited for vintage-themed celebrations like parties and weddings, this stylish ‘do will transport you to a time when glamour reigned supreme.
5 – Dita Von Teese Style
Achieve a stylish, curly look for your short bob by implementing a simple yet effective styling technique. Start by using hot tools or rollers to create loose waves, allowing your natural texture to shine through. Next, apply a lightweight holding mousse to set the curls in place and prevent them from falling flat throughout the day.
Vintage Makeup
4 – 1920’s Charleston Makeup
As the Roaring Twenties unfolded, the art of makeup started to gain traction. During this era, individuals were still in the process of perfecting their beauty routines, with a focus on bold, striking looks. One iconic style that gained widespread popularity during this time was the dramatic black smokey eye, which became an instant hit.
3 – 1930’s Makeup
In the 1930s, makeup trends focused on creating a radiant, rosy glow on the cheeks. The perfect flush was achieved by applying peach or pink blushes liberally across the cheekbones. For a truly vintage look, try pairing this bold blush with a striking stroke of black eyeliner applied along the lower lash line.
2 – 1940’s Vintage Makeup
During the iconic era of the 1940s, makeup trends focused on enhancing natural features with subtle yet striking techniques. The key to achieving a flawless 1940s-inspired look was mastering the art of contouring and bold lip colors while keeping eye makeup understated. To create this timeless aesthetic, start by defining your brows with precise strokes, making them appear thicker than before.
Next, use shading techniques to accentuate your cheekbones, creating a subtle definition that adds depth to your facial structure. For added drama, apply false eyelashes to draw attention to your eyes. Finally, complete the look with a vibrant red lip color that instantly transports you back in time.
1 – 1950’s Rockabilly Makeup
The iconic 1950s makeup aesthetic is characterized by bold, winged eyeliner. To achieve this retro look, pair thick eyeliner with neatly trimmed eyebrows. If you’re not ready to commit to trimming your brows, simply conceal and foundation them to create a more streamlined appearance. Next, apply a vibrant, orangish-red lip shade and enhance it with a plumping gloss like Too Faced’s Lip Injection for added dimension.
FAQs
Q. Where to shop for vintage clothes?
When on the hunt for authentic vintage treasures, thrift markets are often the go-to spot. However, spotting genuine vintage pieces requires a keen eye. For those seeking specific brands that specialize in vintage clothing, there are several notable options to consider.
Online marketplaces like TheRealReal excel at sourcing high-quality second-hand clothing. On the West Coast, JohnyWas is a popular choice for women’s modern vintage wear.
Meanwhile, Patagonia Worn Wear stands out for its impressive selection of repaired and restored vintage jackets.
For those with a taste for luxury, What Goes Around Comes Around is the perfect destination for coveted brands like Chanel and Gucci. These reputable brands offer curated collections of high-end vintage items.
Q. Which clothing items are essential for creating a vintage look?
To achieve a nostalgic flair in your wardrobe, consider combining high-waisted denim pants or distressed shorts with printed blouses boasting ruffled sleeves for a whimsical touch. Classic bell-bottoms can also be incorporated into your ensemble, while oversized checkered blazers add a dash of sophistication. By mixing and matching these vintage-inspired pieces, you’ll create a unique look that’s reminiscent of bygone eras.
Q. How expensive is it to create a vintage look?
When assessing the cost of vintage attire, multiple factors come into play. Chief among these is the rarity of the outfit itself, as well-established fashion houses like Gucci and Louis Vuitton tend to command a premium for their iconic designs. Online marketplaces and brick-and-mortar stores alike can impact pricing, with the former often favoring a more affordable approach due to lower overhead costs. Additionally, high-end brands like Mr.
Freedom and Biba typically carry a higher price tag, even for relatively simple pieces. For those on a budget, thrift stores offer an attractive alternative, providing a treasure trove of designer items at a fraction of the original cost. While it may require a bit more time and effort, the payoff can be significant in terms of value and savings.
Q. Why do fashionistas prefer vintage clothing over mainstream trends?
The vintage clothing phenomenon has taken the fashion world by storm over the past decade, captivating the attention of style enthusiasts and social media influencers worldwide. Its popularity stems from its ability to add a touch of uniqueness to one’s wardrobe, making it a staple in modern fashion trends. Fashionistas typically blend durable and timeless vintage prints with contemporary oversized silhouettes, such as pants and jackets.
The longevity of vintage tees and jeans makes them an attractive option, coupled with their affordable price point, further solidifying vintage’s status as the ‘buzzword’ of high-end fashion.
