There is something so magical about vintage fashion; and the magnetism that they bring to an outfit. People want to learn how they can wear vintage clothes; without looking like they are wearing a Halloween costume; or cosplaying vintage outfits from the past. With its increasing popularity; people are determined to learn what vintage eras authentically speak to their personal style.
Consistent Vintage Shopping/Thrifting & Experimenting With Vintage Styles
The more you vintage and thrift shop, your eye for vintage fashion will strengthen overtime; along with your preferences. The most important tip here is to experiment with these vintage styles; so that you can discover what your style meshes the best with. In addition, experimenting with vintage styles will also give you insight on what specific styles you like in a particular era. You may discover that you prefer 70s blazers, 90s high-waisted jeans or 80s bomber jackets. For example, I find myself leaning towards styles from the 70s, 80s and 90s. At the same time, I love Y2k mini skirts, ruffle tops and sexy bodycon dresses; but I also love 60s sunglasses.
Experimenting allows you to create your own vintage style recipe. You learn what styles jive and compliment your style the best; or what you aspire for your style to be. The more you experiment you will easily learn about the variety of silhouettes in each era; and what is ideal for your body and style.
Mixing & Matching Different Styles From Different Eras Together
Once you know what vintage styles you love; now you can practice mixing and matching these different eras together. The juxtaposition of vintage eras will always create iconic outfits; that are out of the box and one of a kind. An example of this would be a 70s halter top; with 90s loose fitting shorts. Start off small; and as you perfect this skill challenge yourself to get increasingly daring with the outfits that you innovate.
Understanding The Colors or Prints That Speak To Your Style
The cool thing about vintage fashion is that every era has a variation in color palettes. For example, the 70s saw a celebration of vibrant natural color hues and tones; while the 80s were all about eclectic, neon and bold color palettes. It’s important to understand what colors compliment your style; and your skin tone the best.
Knowing The Attributes That You Already Like About Your Own Personal Style
What do you love the most about your style? Do you love how laidback it is? Do you love the bold bright colors that you wear? Do you enjoy mixing prints? Do you love wearing baggy and oversized styles? Do you love how glamorous your style is? Getting clear on what you love about your style; will align you to the vintage eras that speak to it. Someone that loves wearing oversized styles; and baggy jeans may enjoy exploring styles from the 90s; and gaining fashion inspiration from that era.
Pop Culture
Pop culture can have a tremendous influence on the vintage fashion eras that people love and gravitate to. Hilary Banks from The Fresh Prince Of Belair; and Fran Fine from the Nanny both have styles that transcend the test of time; and are still being discussed in modern day.
In addition, think about your favorite musicians, music videos, movies, or timeframes that make you feel positive nostalgia. Currently, Y2k is extremely popular in the fashion industry due to generations-z’s infatuation with the era. They are fascinated by the music, the movies, and the fashion trends from an era that they were babies in; and that era has a great influence on what they wear.
Ask yourself this question; what pop-culture moments resonate with you, and inspire your vintage style choices?
