Top: Shein c/o Skirt: H&M Bag: Tory Burch Lipstick: Hourglass Shoes: Aldo
Through the decades we have seen just about every fashion trend imaginable. High collars, shoulder pads, gogo boots, fringe, and full bodied skirts have all had their time in the sun in the world of fashion. But just because certain items are dubbed as iconic pieces from a specific era, doesn’t mean you can’t rock the look in our modern time.
In an age where the more skin you show the better, I think it can often make more of a statement when you go against the grain. As the saying goes, “leave something to the imagination!” Afterall, the style icons of previous years made their name in fashion because of their bravery in sporting items that were different for their time.
My husband often says that I was born in the wrong era. Sipping champagne in a fully beaded sequins dress on a Wednesday definitely wouldn’t make me mad. But the reality is that times have changed; however, we can still bring back our favorite elements from decades past with these easy tips!
1940s
Look for items that had a strong shoulder. Dresses and tops should taper at the waist, emphasizing your shape. Skirts should be a-aline. Shoes were oxford style with thick block heels. Look to these ladies for inspiration: Ava Gardner, Lucille Ball, and Katharine Hepburn.
1950s
This era is one of the most well known in the history for fashion. Huge movies like Rear Window, Singin’ in the Rain, Vertigo, Dial M for Murder, and many others came out and set the stage for on and off screen style. Both pencil and full bodied tea length skirts had their moment. Other popular bottoms were cigarette pants and high waisted wide leg pants. Look to Grace Kelly, Marilyn Monroe, and Elizabeth Taylor for some iconic 1950s style examples.
1960s
Casual style was the new couture in this decade. Skirts got shorter, shift dresses were popular, and bold patterns and prints were everywhere. Think polka dots, bright yellow, color blocking, and big round sunglasses. If you love bright and colorful style, look to the 6os for your daily outfit inspriation. For a more modest icon, look to Jackie Kennedy. If you prefer a more dramatic or even sexy look, Bridgitte Bardot is your girl.
1970s
Items that mimic this time period are easy to spot. Bell bottom jeans, mini skirts, wrap dresses and maxi dresses are all statement pieces of the decade that you can easily incorporate into your look. Look for fringe, suede, and floral fabrics to complete your vibe. These ladies are definitely memorable icons of the time: Twiggy, Farrah Fawcett, and Diane Von Furstenburg.
The key to mastering a more vintage look and not looking like you are wearing your Halloween costume is to choose 1-2 items maximum. I remember a girl at my college who dressed like she was from the 1950s every day of her life. We are talking red lips, pin up hair, and full skirts every day. I love that she admired the era and clearly wanted to mimic it. But the issue was it was too much as a whole. Keep it simple. Say you want to go for a 7os inspired look, stick to fringe and round sunnies one day and then bell bottom pants the next. Less is more when it comes to vintage.
If you could step into a time machine and travel to another era what would it be? I’d love to read you thoughts! I’m torn between the 1920s and 1950s. Thanks for reading. Stop back soon!