Working out your fashion style will help you select vintage pieces that you can easily incorporate into your wardrobe. When shopping for vintage, consider what you already own and how well each vintage piece will fit into your current wardrobe. Try looking at different styles on Pinterest and fashion blogs to help you identify what style elements match your aesthetic. This can give you ideas about what to look for when you are shopping for vintage pieces.
For example, while fashion trends come and go, a classic vintage black shift dress, a statement-making vintage leopard swing coat, or a silk floral or neutral-shade tie-neck blouse will always be in style. [4] X Research source Vintage t-shirts, denim or leather jackets, and hats are classics that you can incorporate into your wardrobe. [5] X Expert Source Kalee HewlettFashion Stylist Expert Interview. 23 April 2019.
If you find a vintage piece that no longer has a tag, there are a few tricks you can use to assess the quality. The easiest way is to feel the fabric by rubbing it gently between your pointer finger and thumb. If the material feels sturdy yet soft to the touch, it is likely of higher quality. [6] X Research source You can also compare the material with items that do have a tag to determine if they are the same material. Check carefully for stains, tears, or missing parts, as these can indicate that an item is of lower quality.
The 1910s, for example, brought about the trench coat and lace-up boots. This era generally mixes well with the wide brimmed hats of the 1930s or rocker tees from the 1990s. To prevent clashing, however, avoid mixing 1910s vintage pieces with a 1920s beaded flapper dress or a 1980s neon tunic. [9] X Research source Some decades, such as the 1940s and 50s, produced many now-classic styles in neutral tones. These styles, including 1940s cigarette pants and 1950s leather jackets, tend to mix well with each other, as well as many styles from various other eras. A 1950s leather jacket, for example, can look great with 1960s bell bottom jeans or a 1970s flowy, floral dress. [10] X Research source
For a work-appropriate look, wear a vintage jacket or coat, such as a 1910s camel trench or a 1950s leather jacket, over a simple modern sheath dress. [12] X Research source To show off unique, statement-making vintage pieces without overdoing, try styling 1960s bell-bottom jeans with a simple, neutral v-neck sweater, or a 1980s neon jacket over a clean white tank and your favorite denim.
For example, mix a 1990s rocker tee with a mid-20th century high-waist skirt for a perfectly imperfect, mismatched style. [14] X Research source If you are feeling adventurous, try a printed skirt, such as a floral or leopard print. For an easier look, complement a 1980s silk blouse with 19th or early 20th century statement jewelry, such as an ornate collar necklace or chandelier earrings. [15] X Research source Try styling a basic piece from one era with a statement piece from another, such as a 1960s little black dress with a 1980s sequined cardigan.
To make a statement in head-to-toe vintage, try a full-on 1960s outfit, such as a belted garden dress with a metal-frame handbag in a pastel hue. Complete the outfit with an era-appropriate wavy hairstyle. If you want to rock head-to-toe vintage without looking like you are wearing a costume, try a more timeless, simple outfit, such as a 1940s utility dress with low-heeled pumps. [16] X Research source
In many cases, modern hair and makeup styles are inspired by vintage looks, so it can be difficult to decide how to update your vintage outfit. When in doubt, test it out! You can always switch up your hair and makeup before leaving the house. While modern makeup and hair styling trends can instantly freshen up your vintage outfit, classic styling is always a safe bet. For example, a classic nude lipstick is timelessly chic and goes well with any vintage look.
If your vintage pieces make a big statement, try adding more neutral accessories, such as a simple nude pump shoe or chic gold hoop earrings.
For example, you can instantly elevate an otherwise mundane modern outfit by adding a 1930s beaded clutch or a 1980s statement necklace. To add a level of sophistication, try accessorizing your modern outfit with a 1970s minimalist cape or a classic houndstooth print scarf. [20] X Research source
