Vintage style clothing is all the rage, with celebrities and fashion lovers flocking to its coveted aesthetic. From iconic dresses to vintage accessories, it’s the perfect way to stand out from a crowd and look effortlessly stylish. Whether you’re a pixie-haired pin-up girl or a full-figured lady, you can find a style to suit you from this bygone era.
Vintage pieces tend to hold up much better than many fast fashion items of today – the materials are usually a lot thicker and the stitching is more durable. Plus, the “make do and mend” mentality of years ago means that most vintage clothes will actually improve with age, adding a beautiful patina.
The best part about vintage clothing is that it’s often super affordable – especially if you choose to shop second-hand! However, it’s still important to ask yourself a few questions before committing to a piece.
Does it fit?
It’s a good idea to know your own measurements before you head into a vintage store, or you could end up with a dress that either doesn’t fit an embarrassing waste of time or needs some major tailoring. Take a piece of sewing tape or fabric measuring tape with you, and measure your bust, waist and hips in a loose fitting dress. This will help you determine what size to look for when shopping online.
Depending on the era of the dress, there’s also a chance that it might not have a tag or any sort of sizing information. This is because in eras past, most women were home sewers, and they would custom make their clothes for a more personalized fit. It’s also possible that the sizing has changed over the years, due to what’s known as vanity sizing.
The best way to wear a vintage dress is to let it be the focal point of your outfit. It’s best to keep the rest of your clothing fairly neutral, so as not to overshadow it. If you want to add a splash of color, then opt for a bold accessory such as a vintage Hermes scarf or a 1970s inspired pair of bell-bottom jeans.
It’s also a great idea to mix and match your vintage vintage style clothing for women clothing. You can pair a 1950s sleeveless blouse with a contemporary silk button-down shirt, or you can even throw in some modern denim shorts for contrast. If you’re looking for a more casual vibe, try pairing a floral vintage dress with your favorite pair of sneakers. The possibilities are endless!