
As the vintage style and fashion icon Coco Chanel says: Fashion changes, style remains. To which we say, preach sister! It’s true that trends come and go and unfortunately, some haunt us forever. It’s safe to say that anything made of crushed velvet was an inherently BAD choice. But what can we do? Trends and fads will always come and go.
In a world where fashion is fickle and people are always looking to sport the next big designer or trendy accessory, it’s important to not only look to current trends but also explore the style of the past. For this, vintage inspired clothing is the way to go. The term vintage usually refers to garments from or inspired by the 1920s, although people do use it to describe anything old — up through the 1980s. Whether you find the vintage fashion of Downton Abbey (set in 1900’s Great Britain) romantic or you’re inspired by the Art Deco style of the roaring 20’s, you can weave vintage items into your wardrobe and find a style that is not only unique, but also lasting. Here are 15 ideas for vintage inspired clothes that belong in your closet right now.
-
Bralette.
We welcome any chance to go back to a time when women’s undergarments were simple, romantic, and comfortable. They weren’t all about form, support, coverage and cleavage. The vintage style bralette is equal parts sweet and sophisticated. Note: It’s not for the big-busted.
-
Gauntlet
Gauntlet refers to a style of gloves that have a long loose cuff that extends over the forearm. In medieval times knights and soldiers wore gauntlets to cover their armor and these gloves later became a fashion statement for women in the 1920’s and 1930’s. Let your inner Game of Thrones freak out with this one.
-
Capelet
Capes and capelets were big in the 1930’s instead of proper coats, so that women could keep warm without distracting from their outfits. Do they do the job as well as a leather jacket or trench? Not exactly, but you will definitely stand out.
-
Surcoat
The surcoat is a type of long cloak that both men and women wore over their clothing in the 13th and 14th centuries — a perfect vintage style addition to your wardrobe if you’re a fan of layering.
-
Slip
If given the choice between wearing an uncomfortable thong, super-binding Spanx to hide underwear lines, or to wear a slip underneath your clothes, what would you choose? Remind us, when and why did slips become an undergarment reserved for old ladies?
-
Seamed Tights
Yes, there is something about stockings that just makes you picture your grandma. But seamed tights are equal parts elegant, classy, a little sassy and a lot fun. Plus you can wear them to work or for a night out on the town.
-
Pomander Pendant Necklace
In the Middle Ages pomanders were worn, not just as style pieces, but to ward off bad smells. We might not need these baubles for the same reason as years before (thank you hygiene), but there is something timeless yet modern about a pendant necklace, and the sweet smelling perfume is definitely a perk.
-
Daytime Hat
Bad hair days happen all too often — especially during the summer or if you happen to live in a climate where humidity and frizz can ruin your day. Invest in a chic, minimalist hat that can serve as an extension of your outfit and also tame (slash hide) your unruly tresses.
-
Muff
Because sometimes your hands get cold and gloves are just not nearly stylish enough.
-
Silk Parasol
There is no denying that these days sun tanning is out and sun protection is in. You know what’s more stylish than SPF 100? A brightly colored silk parasol to twirl as you protect your skin from harsh UV rays.
-
Pocket Watch
Smithsonian.com calls the pocket watch, “the first wearable tech game changer”. A pocket watch is equal parts functional and cool. You’ll never be late and you’ll turn your timepiece into an interesting conversation starter.
-
Corset
When it comes to vintage style clothes, who doesn’t love any trend that accentuates a woman’s curves? That’s not to say it’s the most comfortable undergarment to add to your wardrobe, but it is certainly a faster and easier way to slim your figure than a drastic diet.
-
Caftan
In recent years people have started sporting caftans at the beach or pool, but who wouldn’t want to wear a breezy, flowing and most importantly, comfortable gown to work or to the grocery store? We’d be lying if we said we didn’t always want to wear a caftan. Always.
-
Kimono
There is something extremely elegant and special about a traditional Japanese kimono with its beautiful silk fabrics, vibrant colors and clean lines. Typically worn by Japanese women for special occasions, Kimono-inspired fashion became popular in the 1920’s. This is one of our favorites pieces of vintage inspired clothing.
-
Wide-Leg Pants
Wouldn’t it be nice if stylish pants were a little more comfortable than skinny jeans? Vintage style wide-leg trousers e from the 60’s and 70’s breathe instant life (and comfort) into a wardrobe currently dominated by pants that cut off your circulation if you happen to eat a little too much pasta.