When it comes to fashion, there’s nothing quite like the nostalgia of incorporating retro trends into modern looks. Think flared jeans sewn together with metallic ribbons or checked blazers paired with bold-print pants. It’s a subtle yet stylish way to make a statement and express your inner fashionista. If you want to learn how to bring old trends into new looks, then read on for our top tips on how to incorporate retro fashion trends into modern looks.
1. Embrace the Trend: An Introduction to Retro Fashion
It’s no secret that retro fashion styles are having a moment this year. But why? For starters, wearing a retro motif instantly adds a touch of personality and nostalgia to any outfit. Plus, retro apparel tends to be very affordable given the plethora of vintage and second-hand items available. If you’re looking to give your style a bit of an upgrade, here’s a quick guide to getting you started with retro fashion:
- Look for elements that were popular from past eras. Pop culture icons, bright patterns, and overalls are great to incorporate into a retro look.
- The easiest way to go retro is by using pieces that are deliberately vintage. Visit thrift stores or estate sales to search for items that have strong retro vibes.
- Pair classic retro pieces with contemporary ones. Mixing modern pieces with vintage ones gives you an edgy, trendsetting look. For example, an old-fashioned tweed blazer can be paired with a pair of high-waisted jeans.
- Layers can bring any outfit to the next level. Choose pieces with similar colors to pull together the retro look. Think leather jackets, sheer scarves, and wide-brimmed hats.
These tips help you to confidently recreate vintage-inspired looks with clothes that fit your personality and style. Retro fashion is not only trendy, but also affordable and timeless. With a little effort, you can create a wardrobe full of unique, one-of-a-kind outfits full of character and vibrancy.
2. A Throwback to the Past: Mining Retro Styles
Mining past wears for styling purposes isn’t anything new. What may come as news to some, however, is that it’s now to the point of becoming trendy and almost inescapable on fashion runways everywhere. Retro styles are taking the catwalks by storm, and these vintage aesthetics may just be the next “it” thing for all couture lovers.
Few can deny the charm vintage pieces possess — after all, who isn’t a fan of exhuming the past’s greatest hits every now and then? As it turns out, quite a few! With this newfound surge of attention, many fashion designers and labels are finding clever and inviting ways to recycle some of their favourite fashions from the past couple of centuries, aiming to recapture our collective nostalgia.
Aesthetics from past decades are now part and parcel of the commercial side of the fashion industry, and there’s been both a conscious and unconscious attempt to recreate looks from the past. It’s understandable then that somebody looking for a breath of fresh air will probably find more inspiration by taking a glimpse into the past than navigating today’s overflowing collections.
The recent revival of these comfortable, pre-loved clothes and accessories has certainly been one of fashion’s biggest u-turns. With each revolutionary and nostalgic trend that graces the runway, these retro classics will be sure to delight even the most modern of fashion mavens.
- Styling with retro fashion has become trendy
- Recycling styles from the past couple of centuries
- Aesthetics from past decades a part of fashion industry
- Clothes and accessories taken from the past
3. Taking It Up a Notch: Incorporating Retro Pieces into a Modern Look
Mix things up and keep an open mind when it comes to fashion. Reimagine pre-existing outfits with thoughtful pieces from different eras. Stray from cookie-cutter trends and break convention in order to create your own unique style.
To inspire a modern and retro look, start by picking your key focal element and layer around it. Textured items such as velvet, corduroy and lace will add depth to the look. When playing with color, be sure to pair like colors together for maximum contrast and edge.
Try out the following techniques to mix retro and modern pieces for a truly eye-catching style:
- Pair different types of denim together. Mix fitted mom jeans with vintage, distress denim and match them with a classic t-shirt or an unexpected blouse.
- Mix retro prints. Polynesian and Hawaiian prints have seen a huge resurgence this season. Add an element of nostalgia to your look by pairing cheerful prints with unexpected colors.
- Embrace velvet. This season, velvet is everywhere. Complete a modern look by layering a velvet dress over a modern jacket with bold details.
Embark on a creative fashion journey and bring a renewed energy to your wardrobe. It may take some trial and error before nailing down a look, but the effortless elegance and confidence that comes with it makes it all worthwhile.
4. Colorings of Time: Mastering Color Combinations with Retro Pieces
As fashion trends come and go, it’s the truly timeless pieces that stand the test of time. Capturing the unique look of retro-style outfits is an art form best achieved by experimenting with color combinations. Here are our top tips for mastering color combos with retro pieces for bold, stylish looks.
- Mix Patterns and Solids: Start off with a patterned piece – such as gingham, polka dot, or striped – as the primary focus of your outfit. Then, combine it with a solid-colored piece to make the pattern pop. Make sure to vary textures to add depth.
- Accent with Primary Colors: To add a punch of color, try coloring one piece in the bright and classic shades of red, blue, and yellow. Use complementary colors that are opposite one another on the color wheel for maximum impact.
- Subtly Match Colors with Neutral: For a more subtle, timeless look, choose a neutral piece and pair it with colors that subtly coordinate. No need to match them perfectly; a slight blend of colors should work perfectly.
Incorporating timeless pieces with vintage-inspired details, like collars and buttons, also makes all the difference. Whether you’re going for a bold, daring look or a subtle yet chic one, experimenting with color combinations is key to creating styles that stand out.
A great place to start, and plenty of inspiration to find, is online. Browse around for looks that speak to you, and start wearing your unique look with confidence.
5. A Show of Style: Figuring Out How to Wear Retro Pieces With Modern Styles
Adopting Revisited Styles
It’s no wonder that the revival of retro looks is on the rise; they all have something unique to offer. After all, who doesn’t love a cool vintage piece? From leather jackets to distressed denim, there is something for everyone. But how do you wear these vintage pieces and still look modern?
The key to wearing vintage and still looking fabulous is to combine retro and modern styles. You can add a vintage piece, such as a bomber jacket, with a modern outfit. Choose pieces that have been given a lot of thought–think bold colors, patterns, and textures. Balance old and new to create a vibrant look.
How to Create Visual Balance
You can give your outfit a personalized touch by using vintage accessories. Think ruffled scarves, brooches, and berets. Balance the look by offsetting the vintage pieces with modern accessories. Sleek and stylish pumps, bags, and jewelry are the perfect accompaniment to vintage pieces.
Vintage fashion shouldn’t be intimidating. With these tips, you can create a look that pays homage to the past while remaining fashion-forward. Here are some tips to keep in mind when combining vintage and modern looks:
- Mix and match vintage and modern pieces for a more dynamic look.
- Pay attention to texture, color, and pattern when choosing pieces.
- Utilize vintage accessories to complete the look.
- Create balance by offsetting vintage pieces with modern accessories.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is to be comfortable with what you wear. Mixing and matching takes some practice, but with time you’ll be able to create flattering looks that suit your style. So, don’t be afraid to embrace the beauty of vintage fashion!
We’ve gone through some of the best ways to add a modern twist to retro fashion trends. Remember, the key is to stay true to your personal style and be confident. Nothing is out of bounds when it comes to creating a look that oozes effortless cool! Now go forth and hit the streets in your retro-inspired attire, shining with the risk-taking spirit of the past!