In recent years it seems like we've been transported back to the middle of the 20th century in terms of style. Some call it the Mad Men effect; there's no denying that the hit drama set in 1960s Manhattan has had a major influence on both clothing and interior design fashions. Whether women are wanting to emulate Joan Holloway and Betty Draper, or are subconsciously wishing to return to a period of economic prosperity (neatly sidestepping the rampant misogyny of the day!), there's no denying that the retro styles have come back in a big way.
What are the benefits of this? Well, the shape and cut of dresses and skirts from the era are certainly aesthetically pleasing. Both flared and pencil skirts, the two main silhouettes are universally flattering - and the shift dress, undeniably the quintessential style of the youths at the time - has maintained its popularity thanks to its simplicity and true innovation. Before this time women were discouraged from showing off their legs, but with the sexual revolution and second wave of feminism, the girls were ready to be in charge of their own bodies, and that included what they wore.
If you would like to join in with the trend but are worried it's on the out, brush away those concerns! At London Fashion Week, everybody's favourite punk grandmama Vivienne Westwood, showcased a collection that has been described as 'fifties housewives on acid ' - in the best sense, naturally! Perfectly fitted dresses, neat blouses twinned with pencil skirts, and retro swimwear paying homage to Marilyn Monroe were seen on the catwalk to much excitement. Westwood showed us that you can keep the classic shapes of the mid-century pieces, but update them in other ways - through colour, prints and accessories. Eccentric plaids, brave baroque and kooky berets were all in tow, confirming that for this dame of the world of fashion, it's still all about having a good time.
The better part about vintage style is that you do not have to splash out to jump in on the look. Yes, there are always folks pleased to max out their Visa card on the designer threads, there is, however, truly no requirement if you're more budget conscious. Thrift and Consignment stores are treasure troves of vintage clothing ; you won't always find something perfect so be ready to put in the time and visit them often.
Start to know the staff and tell them the kinds of pieces you like - if you get on well, they may even put things aside that they know you will appreciate. Scour eBay and etsy for bargains and play with the search terms incase things are misspelled or crucial details are omitted. Remember to keep an eye fixed on the high street as designer influences are appearing their quicker and quicker every year.
It has never been easier to find your perfect vintage dress so get to it and make your mates envious ; when they ask you where it's from, say 'It's Vintage ' with a smile and be safe in the certainty that they can't copy your superb look!
What are the benefits of this? Well, the shape and cut of dresses and skirts from the era are certainly aesthetically pleasing. Both flared and pencil skirts, the two main silhouettes are universally flattering - and the shift dress, undeniably the quintessential style of the youths at the time - has maintained its popularity thanks to its simplicity and true innovation. Before this time women were discouraged from showing off their legs, but with the sexual revolution and second wave of feminism, the girls were ready to be in charge of their own bodies, and that included what they wore.
If you would like to join in with the trend but are worried it's on the out, brush away those concerns! At London Fashion Week, everybody's favourite punk grandmama Vivienne Westwood, showcased a collection that has been described as 'fifties housewives on acid ' - in the best sense, naturally! Perfectly fitted dresses, neat blouses twinned with pencil skirts, and retro swimwear paying homage to Marilyn Monroe were seen on the catwalk to much excitement. Westwood showed us that you can keep the classic shapes of the mid-century pieces, but update them in other ways - through colour, prints and accessories. Eccentric plaids, brave baroque and kooky berets were all in tow, confirming that for this dame of the world of fashion, it's still all about having a good time.
The better part about vintage style is that you do not have to splash out to jump in on the look. Yes, there are always folks pleased to max out their Visa card on the designer threads, there is, however, truly no requirement if you're more budget conscious. Thrift and Consignment stores are treasure troves of vintage clothing ; you won't always find something perfect so be ready to put in the time and visit them often.
Start to know the staff and tell them the kinds of pieces you like - if you get on well, they may even put things aside that they know you will appreciate. Scour eBay and etsy for bargains and play with the search terms incase things are misspelled or crucial details are omitted. Remember to keep an eye fixed on the high street as designer influences are appearing their quicker and quicker every year.
It has never been easier to find your perfect vintage dress so get to it and make your mates envious ; when they ask you where it's from, say 'It's Vintage ' with a smile and be safe in the certainty that they can't copy your superb look!
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Research on the influence from mod clothing? Look no further than visit our store to read our articles on http://blog.sirenlondon.com/.
I'm loving all this Rockabilly dress ! I wish they made swimsuits now that looked like that It's been so hot here this weekend, I just want to lounge on the beach with a book too
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