Here are a few tips on how to pull off retro fashion in 2021:
The term “retro” refers to anything that references the past, and we all know the fashion industry loves a good comeback. In fact, fashion stylist Heather Newberger says that clothing trends tend to go through 30-year cycles. For instance, we are now seeing a lot of denim popular in the 90s worn by the latest generation of fashionistas, and it’ll eventually reappear later down the line. So dressing retro is actually always in vogue.
Whether you have a closet to borrow retro items from or you’re working with modern pieces, here are a few tips on how to pull off retro fashion in 2021:
Mix and match colors and prints
The ‘80s were all about bright colors and loud prints, so don’t be afraid to match bright pants with an oversized shirt with a contrasting color. A loose black lace top with a bright mini skirt and neon tights is also an interesting ensemble. But, of course, if you don’t feel brave enough for a loud outfit, you can add some modern pieces instead. Our ‘Tulle at Any Age’ feature shows how you can pair the fabric with denim and patterned heels to dress it down.
Rock retro sneakers
Retro sneakers are classics, and because of how versatile they are, they’re easy to pair with any outfit. In particular, though, retro sneakers give off a laid-back sporty aesthetic. For example, Reebok’s skate-inspired Club C sneakers are a minimalistic pair with a white base and a few green highlights, making them perfect for a casual yet put-together look. Meanwhile, the Nike Daybreak sneakers provide a pop of color with orange and brown. Retro sneakers tend to have muted colors, neutral tones, or minimalistic designs so that you can rock them with any outfit.
Shop some Retro kicks below:
Consider interesting shapes
When thinking about outfit shape and retro-style designs, one image that comes to mind is bell-bottom jeans. In the ‘70s, especially, pants were also hip huggers and high-waisted. They also tended to have designs like embroidery, embellishments, and studs. But, of course, you can also go for some color, such as Alexander McQueen’s mid-rise flared pants or the Rebecca Vallance Amina high-rise flared crepe pants, as the ‘70s was also the time of glam rock and disco fashion. Meanwhile, the ‘50s were all about dresses with soft shapes and defined waists.
Shop some great flares I love below:
Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize
For ‘80s retro-Style, the chunkier and louder, the better. Go crazy with colored bangles, wear your large neon sunglasses, and clip on a pair of statement earrings. The ‘70s have more neutral and natural accessories, such as jewelry made of wood, shells, stones, and feathers. But if you’re going for the disco vibe, then think glitter and anything shiny that will go with your equally sparkly outfit. The ‘60s are a lot calmer with its flower headbands, gypsy scarves, and leather moccasins. Finally, for the ‘50s, use faux fur, gloves, and cat eye-shaped sunglasses.
Give your hair some life.
The common theme with ‘80s hairstyles was that they were big and used a lot of hairsprays. Allure has a list of styles that you might want to try if you’re feeling adventurous, from the simple Whale Spout ponytail to the more daring permed fe-mullet. The ‘70s hairstyles were either feathered and messy or parted in the middle. The ‘60s had the most relaxed hairstyles, with hair usually just hanging loose. In the ‘50s, it was all about looking proper. So you can either tightly curl your short hair or make a bouncy ponytail or do the curled and pinned hairstyle for long hair, as long as you put on a lot of hairspray afterward.
At the end of the day, there’s no right way to wear retro-style fashion. After all, fashion is all about self-expression, and pulling ideas from the previous decades adds your own dynamic spin to retro fashion.
Thank you for stopping by, I hope you enjoyed today’s read!
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I love this tutorial on how to be retro… it’s so coo to see 70’s inspired looks coming back around!
It was a fun topic to cover!