The fashion world is ever-changing – trends come and go in the blink of an eye. But this season, designers are looking back in time to revive nostalgic style from decades past. Step into the world of vintage vibes and prepare to be transported to a time of classic elegance and chic styling. From puffed sleeves to classic denim cuts, we take a closer look at the revival of nostalgic fashion.
1. Stepping into a Bygone Era: A Look at Nostalgic Fashion Revivals
Nostalgia has been sweeping across the fashion industry as of late. In the era of Instagram, thrift stores, and stylistic evolution, there is an influx of nostalgia-inspired designs that evoke strong emotional connections with the past. Many of these fashion revivals are clothed in a vintage aesthetic, giving wearers a feeling of walking through a portal to the past.
- The ’90s Revival
- The Oversized Silhouette
- The Mid-Century Aesthetic
- The Glamorous ’20s-Inspired Pieces
The ’90s is a decade that has seen consistent revivals in the fashion industry. Baggy jeans, flannel shirts, oversized sweatshirts, plaid prints, as well as trends like bandanas, matching tracksuits, and bright colors are becoming popular once again. ’90s-inspired clothing has made its presence well-known on the runways of Chanel, Versace, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, as well as in popular street wear.
The oversized silhouette is another trademark of 2020-style nostalgia. Many fashion houses—such as Off-White, Marc Jacobs, and Prada—have embraced the oversized trend that makes statements with its ballooning silhouettes and relaxed attire. From oversized jeans paired with high-top sneakers, to loose-fitting trench coats with an umbrella thrown in, this trend takes us back to an era where comfort and style are in perfect harmony.
The mid-century aesthetic is also quite popular in the world of fashion today. Popularized in the 1950s, this decade features boxy shapes, full skirts, menswear-inspired pieces, and glamorous eveningwear. We can see nods to this era on the runway with flamboyant prints and silhouettes. It’s a look that isn’t typically seen on the streets, but is often found in the movies.
Glamorous ’20s-inspired pieces are also making their way back to the fashion world. We can see flapper dresses, feather boas, and beaded dresses referenced on the runway and worn by the style elite. These looks give us a taste of the glitz and glamour of that era, along with a sense of nostalgia and timelessness.
Fashion goes in cycles, and we can clearly see that nostalgia has become a major factor in the trendsetters’ wardrobe today. Whether it’s through the ’90s revival, the oversized silhouette, the mid-century aesthetic, or the glamorous ’20s-inspired pieces, fashion revivals have helped to revive a bit of the past for the style-savvy public.
2. The Old is New Again: How the Past has Inspired Today’s Fashions
Fashion is often a reflection of the times, as new trends often draw heavily on the past. From vintage prints and colors to classic cuts and materials, the old is often the foundation for the new.
Take the resurgence of 1970s style for example. Bell-bottoms have made a big comeback in both denim and trousers, with flared styles a favorite in the denim department. The oversized blazers of yesteryear have returned as well, alongside leisure-inspired polo shirts and trousers. Not to mention, ponchos, peasant blouses, straw hats, and the like have all seen a resurgence in both everyday fashion and formal gatherings.
It’s not just age-old 70s style we’re seeing either. Classic looks from decades and centuries past have made their way back into fashion too. Victorian necklines, 50s silhouettes, even fabrics, colors, and styles of bygone eras have all appeared in modern fashion.
The old-meets-new trend has also played out in accessories too. Bell-sleeved jumpers now appear with beaded necklaces made from recycled materials, while peasant blouse ensembles are often completed with modern sunglasses made from bamboo or recycled plastic. Even headwear such as beanies, bonnets, and berets have been given a modern twist.
Regardless, it’s clear that the fashion trend of present day is now rooted in the past. With classic references reinterpreted for a modern age, the old is no longer a thing of the past.
3. Remixing Retro: Strategies for Incorporating Vintage Vibes Into Your Look
The classic chic look of vintage fashion never seems to go out of style. Whether you love following the latest trends or prefer to keep it timelessly classic, you can always benefit from infusing your look with a touch of retro.
Reinvigorate your wardrobe with nostalgic touches from the past. A few simple strategies can be your key to unlocking the perfect vintage look.
Choose Timeless Staple Pieces
Timeless staples like leather jackets, plain tees, and jeans in simple cuts will remain fashionable through all eras. Pair these basics with vintage accessories to add a unique style to your look. Want to upgrade your outfit with a classic ‘50s vibe? Throw on a pair of circular spectacles and a vintage sunhat.
Go Monochrome
Draw inspiration from the classic fashion of bygone eras like the roaring 20s or mod style of the 60s. Monochrome outfits serve as the perfect base for injecting vintage vibes into your look. You can stay timelessly chic yet show off your modern fashion sensibilities with an all-black or all-white ensemble. Top off this look with something dapper like a fedora for a timeless yet cool look.
Find Outdated Treasures in Vintage Stores
When it comes to finding one-of-a-kind pieces, nothing beats a vintage clothing store. Explore racks and shelvess filled with timeless treasures from decades past. Treat yourself to some quality finds, such as patterned dress shirts, denim cutoffs, and other timeless staples. Don’t be afraid to mix modern pieces with retro items!
Scour Thrift Stores for Unique Finds
Hit up your local thrift stores for hidden gems. Chances are you’ll find a few one-of-a-kind items like bold floral dresses, retro sunglasses, and classic cropped knits. Take your time browsing in the clothing racks to find something truly special that stands out. Who knows – you may even find an overlooked treasure that makes your look instantly memorable.
4. Feeling Nostalgic: Balancing Timeless Trends and Current Styles
2020 is a time of change but that doesn’t mean you can’t pay homage to the past. Whether it’s fashion, music, or movie trends we can all relate to holding onto something that speaks to our nostalgias.
- Reviving retro vibes: When a lot of things in life seem to be uncertain, there is something tranquil about slipping into a style that reminds us of our past. Maybe you want to add a timeless touch to your wardrobe with items such as a leather jacket, classic blue jeans, or a white button down.
- Updating classics: Picking up pieces from times past and adding a contemporary spin to them can really help you create your own signature look. Try a denim jacket with a pair of jean shorts to give off an effortless 90s vibe or adding a trendy slogan t-shirt to a pleated midi skirt. Not only you will stand out, you will be embracing the latest trends.
- Mixing vintage and modern: If you want an eclectic look that is truly unique to you, don’t be afraid to experiment with combining timeless pieces and current styles. A ’60s inspired vintage dress can be made modern with the right accessories or an oversized blazer can be given a modern update when paired with a pair of chunky trainers.
- Gifting yourself with memories: Shaking up your wardrobe can help make you feel good, and it doesn’t have to require a big budget. Go online or head to your local thrift store to find some second-hand gems that you can turn into your very own signature pieces.
Retro rules the trendsetters’ world once again, but this time, don’t feel limited to what was once considered ‘cool’. It’s yours to experiment and create something to bring out your authentic self, while celebrating your favorite fashion moments from the past. Timeless styles shouldn’t be rarities; they should be celebrated, remade and appreciated.
The nostalgic fashion revival shows no signs of going away anytime soon, with vintage vibes continuing to be all the rage. After all, what could be better than tapping into the past for a totally unique way to express your individual style? Don’t be surprised to hear people say, “Hot off the runway, straight from the ’80s!
