Fans of vintage fashion, whatever decade they love, are often daunted by transitioning into wearing vintage fashion in their everyday lives. I mean, where do you start? What colours do you wear? Will it be suitable for work? Now, if you work on a building site and have to wear your high-vis and a hard hat, you may struggle to get your desired look. However, vintage fashion can make for a smart and professional office look. My advice, keep it simple, stick to neutral colours and you can’t go wrong. One thing to remember is that you don’t have to rush out and re-vamp your wardrobe straight away. Most people build up their vintage wardrobes over time, making sure to buy more authentic pieces and not contribute to fast fashion; after all, the famous 40s saying was ‘make do and mend’.
Here's a list of my top ten vintage fashion staples for women (men’s staples are to follow):
1. Lightweight Knits.
These garments are breezy enough to be worn in summer as well as winter, especially if you get a short sleeved one. They can also be used as a great layering piece if you’re wanting to wear a shirt with a collar underneath. Pair your knit with a skirt or some smart tailored trousers and you’re onto a winner.
Jean Dawney, Housewife Magazine.
2. Simple pearl or beaded jewellery.
You don’t have to spring for real pearls (although you can often find real vintage pearls for sale at reasonable prices on Etsy stores such as my own and on Ebay), however, a simple pearl necklace or pair of earrings makes for an especially elegant finishing touch to your vintage outfit. Similarly, if you don’t like the look of white jewellery, you can get simple and dainty beaded necklaces, bracelets and earrings for very reasonable prices. Either way, both types of jewellery are timeless.
May Vogue, 1957.
Necklace Available in my Etsy shop.
3. Pencil skirts.
There’s a reason why pencil skirts are still considered to be fashionable today, they look so elegant and are flattering at any size! They’re particularly appropriate for 40s and 50s looks, but make sure to purchase a tailored skirt as opposed to an elasticated jersey material for a more authentic and elegant look. These skirts are often a steal to buy and can be purchased in multiple different colours. I would suggest a black, grey and burgundy as three fantastic staple colours.
Lilli Ann Fashion
4. A statement coat.
There’s two options I would suggest here for the staple vintage look, either a long tailored wool (or faux wool) coat, or a faux fur coat. I went for a Harrods vintage faux fur coat which I found for £30 on Ebay; it’s the warmest coat I own, was an absolute bargain and was made to last. The faux fur coats tend to be oversized and feel like you’re being given a big, cozy hug. The wool coats tend to give you a more tailored look. Either way, during winter the coat you wear is generally the only thing people will see, so it makes your vintage look!
Deux Nouveautes.
Dorian Leigh in a wool coat.
5. Seamed stockings.
Dita von Teese, I’m sure, would be proud of anyone rocking their seamed stockings. These garments can instantly lift a simple black dress into an elegant and sexy look. Personally, I’ve found that these stockings, which are usually more expensive, last a lot longer and are a hell of a lot more comfortable than normal and modern tights.
Marilyn Monroe wearing seamed stockings.
6. Shirtwaist dresses.
These dresses are probably one of the most easily recognised fashion pieces of the twentieth century. Not only are these dresses practical, but they’re also comfortable. Throw on your seamed stockings and your statement coat and you’ll have a fantastic office or evening look.
Article from a 50s women's magazine.
7. A-line skirts.
Such skirts are usually fitted at the waist and then gradually flare out from there (although not massively) and usually finish at the knee, although they can come further down the leg if desired. They were especially popular during the 40s, and are a comfortable and practical element of the vintage wardrobe.
Vogue 1952.
8. A signature purse.
This important accessory can make or break your outfit. Modern day purses are generally huge (how better to carry around our busy lives?), however, twentieth century purses, especially those from earlier on in the century, tended to be a tad daintier and less practical. Finish your outfit off with a carry purse or a smart shoulder bag. If you go for a medium sized bag it will still look classy whilst also being big enough to carry your money, cards, makeup and keys (and anything else you like to take with you).
Article from a vintage magazine.
9. Swing trousers.
You didn’t think I’d leave out a pair of trousers, did you? Whilst dresses and skirts are beautiful, sometimes you need something a little more practical (and warm). Swing trousers tend to be fitted at the waist and then flare out the further down the legs they get. The popularity of these trousers started in the 40s and 50s, but they grew into the famous flares which graced the latter half of the twentieth century.
Katherine Hepburn wearing swing trousers.
10. Hats.
Unfortunately, unless you’re going to the races, hats have gone rather out of style. If you don’t want to work up the courage to include a hat in your daily look, you could always switch it for a bandanna/ headband, or a beret if you’re wanting a hat that’s a bit more socially acceptable in today’s mundane world. Don’t worry, you can always break out the fascinator for weddings and Christenings!
Mary Carlisle wearing a beret.
I hope that this article and information helps to get you started with vintage fashion. It’s really not that difficult once you’ve got your staples and doesn’t need to be expensive either! Make sure to check out my own shop here https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/SwabyCollections, you might just find something you’ve been looking for.
Please comment, share with your fellow vintage enthusiasts and let me know if there’s anything specific you want me to write about. To share this article, use the share buttons below. You can also use the social media buttons at the top and bottom of this page to visit my pages. If you want to keep up to date with my listings and discounts, then make sure to sign up for my mailing list and follow my store (https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/SwabyCollections) on Etsy.
Comentários