The fashion industry is one area of the business world where trends come and go at a very rapid rate. If a trend doesn’t appeal to the fashionistas, or it doesn’t sell, then it dies out and is replaced by something else. However, there is a lot of substance to the retro trend, as it prompts people to look back at the classics that were popular in the past and bring their own spin on them. This is something that has been seen in different areas of marketing over the past decade, so many brands create new designs that are completely based on retro ones.
Fashion During The Decades
Fashion trends come and go, but there’s always something to be said for a classic, retro look. Clothing from past decades has a certain timeless quality to it that can’t be found in contemporary styles. Whether you’re channeling a ’50s pin-up girl or a ’70s hippie, retro fashion is all about having fun with your wardrobe.
The vintage that is trendy today is mostly from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
50s Fashion
The 1950s was a decade of significant change in fashion, as styles moved away from the conservative styles of the previous decade towards a more modern and youthful look.
- Hourglass Silhouette: The ideal body shape for women was the hourglass figure, with a cinched waist and full hips and bust. This was achieved through the use of corsets, girdles, and full skirts.
- Full Skirts: Women’s skirts were full and voluminous, often made of stiff materials such as taffeta or crinoline. These skirts were worn with petticoats to give them extra volume.
- Pencil Skirts: On the other hand, pencil skirts became increasingly popular during the 50s. These were fitted skirts that tapered towards the hem and were usually knee-length or just below.
- Capri Pants: Capri pants, also known as pedal pushers, were a popular style of pants for women in the 1950s. They were typically high-waisted and ended just below the knee.
- Leather Jackets: Leather jackets became a popular style for both men and women in the 1950s, thanks in part to the popularity of motorcycle culture.
- Bold Prints: Prints and patterns were a key feature of 50s fashion, with bold, eye-catching designs being particularly popular. Polka dots, stripes, and geometric prints were all commonly seen.
60s Fashion
The 1960s saw a major shift in fashion as a new generation of young people rejected the conservative styles of the past and embraced a more radical and daring look.
- Mini Skirts: The mini skirt was one of the most iconic fashion trends of the 60s. Short skirts that barely covered the thighs became a symbol of youthful rebellion and sexual liberation.
- Bold Colors and Patterns: 60s fashion was all about standing out, and bright colors and bold patterns were a key part of this. Psychedelic prints, paisleys, and tie-dye were all popular.
- Go-Go Boots: These high boots with a low heel and a rounded toe were a must-have item in the 60s. They were usually made of shiny vinyl or patent leather and came in a range of colors.
- Mod Style: The mod look was a key fashion trend in the 60s, characterized by sleek, simple lines and bold, graphic designs. Shift dresses, turtlenecks, and straight-leg trousers were all part of this style.
- Hippie Fashion: As the 60s progressed, a more bohemian and free-spirited style emerged. This included tie-dye t-shirts, bell-bottoms, and long, flowing skirts.
- Space-Age Fashion: The space race of the 60s inspired a futuristic fashion trend, with silver metallic fabrics, geometric shapes, and space-age motifs all featuring in clothing and accessories.
- Androgynous Fashion: The 60s also saw a blurring of gender lines in fashion, with women wearing pantsuits and men wearing longer hair and more colorful clothing.
70s Fashion
The 70s was a decade of great fashion. Bell bottoms, crop tops, and platform shoes were all the rage. Women wore their hair long and straight, or in big, bouncy curls. Men grew their hair out into afros and wore it with pride. Colorful patterns and prints were everywhere, and people weren’t afraid to mix and match. Clothing was fun and expressive, and people used fashion to express their personality. The 70s was a truly unique and fabulous decade for fashion.
- Disco Style: Disco culture was a major influence on fashion in the 70s, with flashy, sequined clothing and platform shoes becoming popular. Bell-bottom pants, jumpsuits, and shiny fabrics were also part of this trend.
- Boho Style: The bohemian style of the 60s continued into the 70s, with a focus on natural fabrics, earthy colors, and loose, flowing silhouettes. Fringe, embroidery, and crochet were also popular.
- Punk Style: The punk movement emerged in the mid-70s, characterized by ripped and distressed clothing, safety pins, and studded leather jackets.
- Wide-Leg Pants: Bell-bottom pants remained popular in the 70s, but wider-legged styles such as flares and palazzo pants also became fashionable.
- Maxi Dresses: Long, flowing dresses that swept the floor were a staple of 70s fashion. They were often made of lightweight fabrics such as cotton or chiffon, and featured bold prints and patterns.
- Bold Colors: The 70s was a decade of bold colors, with bright hues such as orange, yellow, and green being particularly popular. Color-blocking and mismatched patterns were also part of this trend.
- Safari Style: Safari-inspired clothing, featuring khaki, olive green, and animal prints, was a trend in the 70s. This included cargo pants, safari jackets, and even the occasional pith helmet.
80s Fashion
The 80s was a decade of big hair, loud colors, and outrageous fashion. Women wore shoulder pads and miniskirts, while men rocked mullets and acid-wash jeans. It was a time when fashion was fun and people weren’t afraid to experiment.
There were a few style icons of the 80s, including Madonna, who popularized the crop top and fishnet gloves, and Cyndi Lauper, who was known for her colorful style. People also looked to movie stars like Molly Ringwald and John Hughes films for fashion inspiration.
- Power Dressing: The 80s was a time when women were entering the workforce in greater numbers, and power dressing became a popular trend. This included tailored suits with shoulder pads, often in bold, bright colors.
- Aerobics Wear: The popularity of fitness and aerobics in the 80s led to a trend for brightly colored, skin-tight workout wear. This included leotards, leggings, and leg warmers.
- Neon Colors: Bright neon colors such as pink, green, and yellow were very popular in the 80s. These colors were often paired with contrasting colors for a bold, eye-catching look.
- Acid Washed Denim: Jeans were a staple of 80s fashion, but the acid-washed style was particularly popular. This involved washing denim with chemicals to create a worn, bleached effect.
- Big Hair: The 80s was known for its big, voluminous hair styles. Women would often use large amounts of hairspray and backcombing to create a towering hairdo.
- Leg Warmers: Leg warmers were not just for the gym in the 80s. They became a popular accessory, often worn over leggings or tights.
- Punk and New Wave: The punk and new wave movements continued to influence fashion in the 80s, with ripped clothing, leather jackets, and studded accessories all part of this trend.
90s Fashion
What comes to mind when you think of 90s fashion? If you were a teenager in the 90s, you might remember wearing baggy jeans, flannel shirts, and Doc Martens. If you were a bit older, you might remember the grunge look popularized by Nirvana and other Seattle-based bands. Either way, 90s fashion was all about being comfortable and expressing your individual style.
For girls, popular trends included crop tops, chokers, and slip dresses. For guys, it was all about oversized shirts, cargo pants, and backwards baseball caps. No matter what you were wearing, the key was to look effortless and cool.
The 90s were also a time of experimentation with new fashion trends. Some of these, like * packs and velcro sneakers, have made a comeback in recent years. Others, like acid wash jeans and platform shoes, are best left in the past.
Whether you loved or hated 90s fashion, there’s no denying that it was a defining decade for style.
One of the great things about retro fashion is that it can be incorporated into any style. Whether you’re a vintage enthusiast or simply looking to add a few retro-inspired pieces to your wardrobe, there’s no wrong way to do it. And with so many different decades to choose from, you’re sure to find a look that suits you.
So what are you waiting for? Get shopping for some retro fashion today!
1. Denim Jacket
There’s no denying that the denim jacket is retro. It’s a style that’s been around for decades, and it shows no signs of going out of fashion any time soon. The denim jacket is the perfect way to add a bit of edge to any outfit, and it can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a vintage-inspired look or something a little more modern, a denim jacket is a great choice.
2 .Leather
Leather jackets are a timeless style that never goes out of fashion. They are the perfect way to add a touch of edge to any outfit, and can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Leather jackets are also extremely versatile, as they can be worn with just about anything. Whether you’re looking for a classic black leather jacket or something a little more unique, there’s definitely a leather jacket out there to suit your style.
3. Wide-leg trousers
The wide leg trousers trend is definitely having a moment right now. But did you know that this style is actually a blast from the past? That’s right, these pants are straight out of the 1970s. And while they may have been considered dated then, they are definitely having a moment now.
4. Crochet Jumpers
These retro pieces are the perfect way to add a touch of style to any outfit, and they can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cosy winter jumper or a summery cover-up, a crochet jumper is the perfect option. With so many different colours, patterns and styles to choose from, there’s sure to be a crochet jumper to suit everyone. So get on trend and start shopping for your very own crochet jumper today.
5. Bright Colours
Retro fashion is all about bright, bold colours. Think neon pinks, electric blues, and canary yellow. Pairing these colours with retro patterns like polka dots or stripes creates a fun, playful look that’s perfect for a day at the beach or a night on the town.
6. Natural materials
Natural materials like denim and leather are often worn in the retro fashion. This is because these materials are rugged and have a timeless appeal. Denim jeans and leather jackets never go out of style and always look cool. Retro fashion is all about being unique and different, so wearing natural materials is a great way to stand out from the crowd.
7. Go Disco
Disco fashion is definitely retro. It was popular in the 1970s and has made a comeback in recent years. When thinking of disco fashion, you might think of sequins, platform shoes, and tight fitting clothes. This style is all about flashy and bold statements. If you want to stand out on the dance floor, disco fashion is the way to go!
8. Tie-dye clothing
Tie-dye is a retro fashion that has resurfaced in recent years. The technique involves dying fabric in a pattern of colors, typically using a spiral or swirl design. Tie-dye was originally popularized in the 1960s and 1970s, but it has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years.
Tie-dye is a fun and creative way to add some color to your wardrobe. It’s also a great way to show your personality. Whether you’re rocking a tie-dye t-shirt or a tie-dye dress, you’re sure to stand out in a crowd.
9. Tweed sets
Tweed sets are the perfect way to add a touch of retro style to your wardrobe. Made from woolen fabric, tweed sets were popular in the early 20th century and have been making a comeback in recent years. Whether you choose a classic two-piece set or a more modern jumpsuit, tweed is a great way to add some vintage flair to your look.
10. Cowboy boots
Cowboy boots are experiencing a resurgence in popularity as a vintage fashion item. While they never really went out of style in the American West, they are now becoming popular nationwide as a stylish and comfortable option for both men and women.
There are a few reasons for this renewed interest in cowboy boots. First, they are very comfortable. The low heel and wide toe box make them ideal for walking and for wearing all day long. Second, they are very versatile. They can be dressed up or down, and they look great with both jeans and skirts.
What is your favourite decade? Which fashion trend did you used to wear? Who’s your favourite retro celebrity?
