"Vintage" fashion is defined as clothing that is between 20 and 100 years old. The term "vintage-inspired" fashion, then, is used to describe clothing that is representative of the era in which it was manufactured. It is becoming increasingly popular in this day and age to buy into the trends of the past, especially as top designers continue to reference them in their current catwalk shows.
Vintage-Inspired Looks
There are a number of different vintage-inspired looks that continue to come back into women's fashion as the seasons roll by. Why not mix and match them to find out what works best for you?
90s Casual Cool
Elements of the 1990s just keep on returning in the fashion world. From dungarees and pinafore dresses to double denim and crop tops, current casual wear reflects this era down to a T. Grunge style initially made popular by rock bands such as Nirvana and Blondie has also influenced effortless dressing through the introduction of oversized sweaters, plaid shirts, and ripped jeans.
If you want to get the look, it's all about layering to achieve a laid-back, thrown-on aesthetic. Simply put on a crop top under some dungarees and roll them up at the bottoms. Then finish off the outfit with a plaid shirt unbuttoned, beat-up Converse, and a colorful beanie hat.
80s Power Dressing
Another era that continues to be referenced in fashion is the 1980s. Dodgy haircuts aside, it's all about embracing androgyny to channel impactful masculine looks. Think: suit jackets and slim-leg pants, shirts with power shoulders, and pencil skirts.
You can easily rock this type of vintage-inspired fashion through a tailored pant suit, complete with a button-up shirt, court shoes, and some bold geek chic glasses. If you want to up the ante, don't just choose a safe neutral color palette. Make your outfit pop by opting for either a bright fuchsia or a multi-colored printed suit with a complementary shirt.
70s Bohemia
The 1970s is a fun era that is often referenced in fashion. From the "disco fever" looks consisting of flared jumpsuits and sequin dresses to the hippie-style aesthetic featuring folky prints and floaty dresses with bell sleeves, the motifs, shapes, and colors are all super playful and tie in together nicely.
To get the look, wear a paisley print top with long bell sleeves over a ruched maxi skirt, strappy sandals, and a flower power headband for a casual summer event. Alternatively, opt for a statement sequin jumpsuit with platform boots for an evening or smart casual occasion.
60s Pop Art
The "pop art" movement from the 1960s era can be seen in fashion presently through loud-and-proud kitsch prints, such as polka dots, checks, stripes, and splashes of vivid color. Modern silhouettes from this decade thanks to icons such as Mary Quant and Twiggy are also given a nod through miniskirts, minidresses, and knee-high boots with block heels.
For a youthful and artistic ensemble, team a white polka dot button-up shirt in a sunshine yellow hue with a black miniskirt and white knee-high boots. To add a touch of masculinity, swap the shirt for a block hue and the skirt for black and white check tailored trousers.
50s Femininity
Another type of vintage-inspired fashion that is heavily referenced throughout current trends is the feminine shapes and silhouettes of the 1950s. It's all about A-line full midi skirts, cute fur-trimmed coats, and romantic ruffled blouses.
Get the look by teaming an A-line full midi skirt that comes below the knee with a Peter Pan collared blouse and flats with a kitten heel. Then, finish off this polished and pristine aesthetic with a string of pearls around your neck and immaculately curled hair.
Mix and Match Vintage-Inspired Fashion
Vintage-inspired fashion is constantly being given a contemporary twist by designers; however, the silhouettes, motifs, and staples remain the same. The best way to get to know vintage-inspired style and what works for you is by experimenting with different looks and pieces. It's certainly worth doing and having fun with, as you never know when vintage fashion might just come back around.
