Retro chic fashion is currently very popular, but it doesn’t have to come across as something from a different era. The most successful combinations take over recognizable features from earlier times and pair them with items that are up-to-date, comfortable, and simple to wear. Examples include fitted cardigans, high-waisted jeans, midi skirts, loafers, structured handbags, and simple prints which immediately add more character to an outfit.
It is possible to draw inspiration from the 1950s, the 1960s, the 1970s, the 1980s, or even the 1990s without adopting the entire vintage style; just one item with a retro touch can totally alter the atmosphere of a straightforward outfit.
https://www.instagram.com/dollyanddotty/
High-Waisted Jeans With a Fitted Top
One way of achieving a retro chic look is by wearing high-waisted jeans; select jeans that are straight-leg, slightly flared, or relaxed and match them with a fitted knit top, a tucked-in blouse, or a simple crew-neck sweater.
A belt featuring a prominent buckle can give the entire outfit a more vintage appearance. To complete it, choose loafers, ankle boots, or plain sneakers according to how casual you would like the style to be.
Cardigans With Midi Skirts
The combination of a fitted cardigan with a midi skirt has that clear retro look without appearing out of date. When choosing a cardigan, look for ones that have small buttons, a ribbed texture, or are slightly cropped.
A midi skirt in a pleated, A-line, or softly tailored style works particularly well; you can stick to simple colors such as cream, brown, black, burgundy or a subdued green or add a small floral or checked pattern.
To give your look a refined finish, choose ballet flats or loafers along with a structured handbag.
Retro Chic Outfits With Polka Dots
Polka dots are a simple method of adding a vintage look to your clothing, and a black-and-white polka dot blouse can be worn with high-waisted trousers, jeans, or a midi skirt.
If you want something more striking, then have a dotted dress with a well-defined waist and a traditional neckline; low heels, Mary Jane shoes, and a small handbag will make the ensemble seem very inspired by the 1950s without going overboard.
Wide-Leg Trousers and a Simple Blouse
Wide-leg trousers have been linked to a number of different fashion periods, which is why they are surprisingly easy to style; a pair with a high waist goes well with a blouse that is tucked in or with a fitted knit.
You should try on trousers that are chocolate brown, camel, navy, grey, or black; a blouse with a pointed collar can provide an additional retro feature, and simple jewelry ensures the ensemble doesn’t appear too themed.
1970s-Inspired Denim Looks
The 1970s are an excellent source of inspiration when it comes to achieving a casual retro look. Items such as flared jeans, denim jackets, suede-style jackets, printed blouses, and platform shoes all belong comfortably within this style.
It is not necessary to mix all the elements at the same time. For example, flared jeans with a fitted sweater and ankle boots could be sufficient. Another simple combination is a denim jacket worn over a printed blouse and this looks very retro.
Mini Skirts With Knee-High Boots
If you want an outfit that has the style of the 1960s, then match a mini skirt with either a fitted sweater or a simple blouse. Knee-high boots will give it shape and make the look seem more purposeful.
A-line skirts are very useful in achieving this style since they give the whole look a distinct vintage touch while at the same time appearing modern. The rest of the outfit should be kept fairly simple so that the shape of the dress stays the main feature.
Vintage-Inspired Dresses
A dress with a retro touch can carry out most of the styling for you; look for features such as a clear waist, a sweetheart neckline, puff sleeves, collars, small prints, or an A-line shape.
Floral dresses will give you a more delicate vintage appearance, whereas geometric prints have a stronger association with the 1960s. You can wear simple flat shoes during the day or choose low heels for a more formal look.
Retro Chic Outfits With Blazers
A well-structured blazer is more than enough to add a vintage touch to a simple outfit; you should choose one with a slightly loose fit, broad shoulders, plaid patterns, or a double-breasted design.
Wear it with straight-leg jeans, a T-shirt tucked in, and loafers; alternatively, you could choose a blazer with wide-leg trousers and a fitted knit top. This combination has a polished look yet remains relaxed.
The Accessories Make a Difference
A modern outfit can be given a much more retro look through the use of accessories. Useful accessories include cat-eye sunglasses, silk scarves, leather belts, loafers, Mary Jane shoes, headbands, and structured handbags.
You might also give vintage-style jewelry a try; for example, small hoop earrings, pearl accents, thick bracelets, or a simple watch can provide an extra touch without making the whole outfit seem overwhelming.
The simplest way of putting together retro chic clothes is to combine styles from different decades rather than attempting to replicate a single particular period. For example, you could match a flared denim item in the style of the 1970s with a current sweater, or wear a cardigan that has a vintage appearance with modern trousers. This kind of combination makes the outfit interesting and gives retro fashion a natural look rather than making it seem overly thought out.
