Introduction
First of all let's know what exactly is meant by the term vintage fashion. Vintage fashion specifically refers to clothing and accessories that people used to put in past centuries with its primary focus being in the early 20th century but not later than the 1980s.”This vintage charge is getting a new meaning today as people start to wear it again.
History of vintage fashion
The 1930s and 1940s saw simple silhouettes all the rage. It is in 1950s that glamour returned with women wearing full skirts in nipped waists and structured suits becoming common piece in wardrobes; this period also marked the emergence of legendary fashion icons such as Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe. The 1960s were characterized by super short mini skirts, striking prints, and psychedelic patterns. In the 1970s, there was a more eclectic bohemian outlook characterized by flowing maxi dresses, fringe and bell-bottom jeans.
By the 1980s, fashion became more bold and extravagant, characterized by power suits, shoulder pads, and flashy accessories.
Read more— Explore the best of 80s fashion
 |
| Vintage fashion looks |
How to add Vintage fashion to Your Wardrobe?
Start by exploring thrift stores or online vintage shops for unique finds. Etsy, ThredUp,Depop, Beyond Retro are some of the online vintage shops. You can also buy vintage looking clothes from Amazon too.
Another option is to make by using upcycling technique and adding unique details such as embroidery or lace to old clothes, sew new items with fabric imitating the ancient designs, create unique accessories, as well as combine modern outfits with any kind of retro clothes. DIY vintage-inspired fashion demands some talent in clothing transformation. Old clothing is a treasure trove of forgotten styles waiting to be revived by those who possess a sense of style imbibed from an era long gone for themselves due to low cost involved in
Iconic Vintage Fashion Eras
1920s - The Roaring Twenties
During the 1920s, women felt more free and independent, and this was reflected in their clothing, like the famous flapper dress. These dresses had lower waistlines, looser shapes, and shorter lengths, which made it easier for women to move around and express themselves.
The 1920s marked the earliest period when key fashion personalities such as Coco Chanel and Josephine Baker started gracing the scene with fresh trends . Even in the current world, their unmatched sense of fashion and appealing personality continue to set trends in the fashion world. Moreover art deco that introduced straight lines, clean edges and simplicity; also used geometric patterns, richer hues offering luxurious appeal to fabrics and other clothing items played a great role in transforming clothing prior to this period to more glamorous lines and polished look.
 |
| 1920s flapper dress. Photo: getty images |
1950s - The Golden Age of Hollywood
In the 1950s, vintage clothing became very elegant and sophisticated and up to now, people still love it because of its classic styles such as full skirts, tight tops, and well-fitting suits that never seem to go out of style.
Women embraced a more feminine silhouette with cinched waists and voluminous skirts, epitomized by the iconic Dior New Look.Pastel colors, floral prints, and polka dots were popular choices for dresses, while men favored classic suits and sharp hairstyles.It was a time of classic charm and refined style that still inspires fashion today.
 |
| 1950s style |
1970s - The Bohemian Revolution
Self-expression and new styles made up the content of 1970s’ fashion. During that time period bell-bottom jeans were in vogue. The trend also saw an increase in people dressing up with platform shoes that came in various designs. Fabrics were characterized by being colorful and flowing freely especially polyester materials. In the case of women there was the bohemian look where one could opt for peasant blouses as well long flowing dresses whereas others went for flashy disco type dressing such as wearing jumpsuits along side other stupendous attires.
Men's fashion saw the rise of the leisure suit, which had wide lapels and pants that flared out at the bottom. Everyone loved to accessorize with floppy hats, big sunglasses, and eye-catching jewelry.
 |
| Women's 1970s outfit look |
Read more: Exploring the Iconic Style of 70s Fashion
Vintage fashion icons
Throughout history, many icons have influenced vintage fashion. Up to today, Audrey Hepburn still has this classically simple look that everyone stares in awe of. You know those pretty little black dresses right? Well, that was all her doing. Have you ever thought about Marilyn Monroe whose figure can be considered a perfect representation of beauty in movies from the 1950s onwards? Yes – it’s about those hips, killer clothes and that iconic red lipstick she used to wear all the time back then whenever she appeared on set or wherever she went.
And then there is Grace Kelly – both in real life as an actor she is the perfect princess.
She rocked tailored suits and pearls like nobody else, setting the bar high for elegance back in the '50s and beyond. How can we not talk about David Bowie when it comes to vintage fashion. He was the king of style transformation in vintage fashion. He didn’t deal with just clothes; rather, he was dedicated to turning vintage fashion into something artistic.
In addition, Bowie attempted to challenge and break all conventions when he sported daringly revolutionary vintage attires during and after the 1970s. He created an environment people could play around with in terms of wearing them without fear of being judged thus entirely altering our understanding about coolness or style.
 |
| Audrey Hepburn Photo:Instyle |
 |
| Marilyn Monroe Photo: Getty images |
Conclusion
In a nutshell, vintage fashion has this magical quality that just never gets old.
It has an ageless quality that appeals to everyone regardless of how old they are or where they come from. People of all ages or any background seem to be smitten by it’s beauty. I'd encourage readers to explore the realm of vintage fashion be it through visiting various boutiques, having used clothes items scope through internet based stores selling classic outfits or just exploring how best can one combine traditional or contemporary clothing so as to establish an exclusive personal fashion statement
You'll be amazed at the treasures you discover and the fascinating stories behind them!
Our vintage fashion adventure is over now. I hope it was something you enjoyed reading. I’m curious to know more about your experiences with this style of dressing; please leave me some comments on how you have been practicing it and any tips you may have or pieces that were your top picks for the look. Also make sure to follow me on Pinterest. Let's inspire each other to keep rocking that vintage style!
Thank you!!
Keep styling
Stay fabulous
