You may already know: the vintage clothing style is making a comeback! And that’s great news, because this return to basics revives the pleasure of dressing in pretty pieces found in thrift stores or second-hand e-shops. But be careful not to confuse everything: what are we really talking about when we talk about a “ vintage outfit ” or a “ retro clothing style “? As always, the idea is not to blindly follow a fashion, but to draw inspiration from these clothing trends to assert your personality and flatter your figure. I’ll explain how to do it in this article, and I’ll give you several tips and examples for a vintage look that suits YOU!
What is vintage style?
Vintage clothing style is a style of clothing that corresponds to what was worn in the past, between the 1930s and the 2000s.
In fact, the word ” vintage ” is used to describe a relatively old era, before the 2000s. Applied to the world of fashion, this means that a feminine clothing style is vintage when it is inspired by the legendary clothes and accessories of this period in history.
So we go back in time, beyond several decades, in order to bring back to the forefront vintage clothing that we loved to see, but especially to wear! Some pieces have become legendary, such as the vintage dresses of Coco Chanel, Marilyn Monroe or Mondrian.
But one of the major arguments in favor of vintage fashion is that it helps fight against fast fashion . Giving a second life to very beautiful clothes that we wore a few years ago means limiting our environmental impact and giving up textiles that are mass-produced in deplorable social and economic conditions.
Vintage clothing style can help you begin a transition to slow fashion .
What is the difference between retro and vintage?
The terms “ vintage style ” and “ retro style ” are very often confused, regardless of the field concerned: art, interior design, fashion, etc.
However, there is a difference between the two when it comes to the way of dressing. For some, the “ retro clothing style ” refers to the period between the 30s and the 50s. Everything that follows is therefore similar to vintage fashion , up to the 90s, or even 2000s. However, by extension, we generally use the adjective “ vintage ” for the entire period concerned.
Another explanation: a ” retro garment ” is considered to be a modern reproduction of a vintage textile. Conversely, a true vintage garment was made before the 2000s. We must be able to certify its authenticity.
Finally, you will certainly hear about neo-vintage clothing style . This is a look that updates the old school design of certain outfits with more modern elements.
What are the different vintage clothing styles?
Between the 1930s and the 2000s, almost every decade saw the emergence of a new clothing fashion . I’m going to review these different clothing styles considered vintage so that you can identify those that can inspire you for your everyday look.
You probably already have a few key pieces in your wardrobe, so no need to buy new! Thanks to them, you will be able to create a vintage clothing look that reflects you, with a sustainable wardrobe that highlights you. Goal: to feel beautiful, good in your skin and unique.
Classic clothing fashion of the 30s and 40s
The key words for women’s clothing looks in the 1930s and 1940s? Classicism and elegance. Women were still in their role as devoted wives and mothers, so these conservative ideas were reflected in the type of clothing they wore.
The cuts are refined, the colors remain quite dark and the dresses go down to mid-calf. The women wear straight skirts, tweed pants (a fairly thick textile material), felt hats, scarves tied into turbans as well as fairly formal suits.
Despite this semblance of austere appearance, there is still a bit of fantasy in this retro look. It is the era of the bayadere pattern, but especially of the iconic “ shocking pink ” launched in 1937 by Elsa Schiaparelli. Now, it is a very good idea to wear fuchsia pink , because this clothing color has multiple energetic virtues!
The rockabilly clothing style of the 50s-60s
Second vintage clothing style : the rockabilly and pin-up look , typical of the 1950s and 1960s.
Women’s emancipation is growing. Outfits are much more feminine, while remaining chic and elegant. The Peter Pan collar blouse, the corolla dress and the pencil skirt are among the great classics of ready-to-wear at this time.
In terms of patterns, we wear pretty striped or polka dot blouses, sometimes with frills and beautiful necklines for a touch of femininity.
70s Clothing Style
A fun and colorful style : this is how we could define the vintage clothing look of the 1970s!
If this decade inspires you, you will be able to twist your look with legendary pieces: elephant leg pants, flare jeans, a floral shirt, a sequined top, a suede skirt or a suede jacket.
You can also let loose on prints! Floral, ethnic, psychedelic or tie & dye patterns are typical of the fifties .
80s Clothing Style
Make way for the vintage clothing style of the 80s . We continue on the momentum with a relaxed , colorful , or even totally eccentric look. And there is something for everyone: from the most chic to the most casual clothing fashion .
To dress like in the eighties , you can dig into your wardrobe and select a pair of ripped jeans, high-waisted pants or a black jacket like a perfecto for example. Another must-have : the flashy blue, yellow or green crop top. Let’s take advantage of this craze for vintage style to sport colorful and radiant outfits!
What’s really great about this era is that white sneakers rub shoulders with pumps. Each woman adopts a look that suits her and enhances her body shape: bohemian, grunge, elegant or casual.
90s Clothing Style
We end with the 90s clothing style , very influenced by pop culture. In order to bring a nineties touch to your outfit, here are some examples of vintage clothing : mom jeans, a pleated tartan mini skirt, a round neck bodysuit, a satin lace camisole, a crop top with a logo or graphic print, a cotton hooded sweatshirt, a bomber jacket, a sequined skirt or an oversized denim jacket.
Why not try the total denim look with a denim skirt ? You also have the option of bringing denim overalls up to date by wearing them over a timeless piece that you may already have in your wardrobe, the white short-sleeved t-shirt.
Finally, you can create your own vintage clothing style with a few details that recall the 1990s: a neon scrunchie, a colorful shirt tied at the waist or platform shoes.
Where to buy vintage clothes?
To buy authentic vintage clothing and accessories , you have several options:
- scouring garage sales;
- go to flea markets and second-hand shops;
- explore online second-hand clothing platforms.
- auctions.
- don’t miss the “vintage markets” like the one in Lyon.
Do you prefer to opt for vintage clothing sales sites ? Take a look at the best online thrift stores that I have selected for you. They are an excellent alternative to Vinted ! There is a lot of choice and the offer is very qualitative.
