From the ’50s inspired poodle skirts to the ’90s grunge look, fashion is constantly revisiting retro for new inspiration. From the runway to the fashion hallways, fashion’s love affair with nostalgic trends never seems to fade. Modern trends are taking a trip back to the past, recycled and re-imagined for the future. Now more than ever, retro is in demand. Join us as we explore the stories of fashion’s love affair with the past!
1. A Retro Revival – Fashion’s Eternal Love for Nostalgia
Fashion’s relationship with nostalgia is not a new concept. From silhouettes influenced by 1940s dresses to the 90s revival of television cult classics, the industry loves to navigate the style archives for modern takes on vintage looks. So it comes as no surprise that a 2020 wardrobe should also be stacked with 70s inspired pieces – mirrored disc earrings, a mini checked-blazer or high-waisted jeans, to highlight just a few.
This season, the sentiment extends way beyond apparel and transcends into the realm of home fashion, automotive design, and fabrication of everyday objects. For example, mid-century kitchenware and quirky tableware for Autumn serve up warm colour palettes that are eye-catching and modern. Home décor also harks back to another era with revival lighting fixtures and classic sofas and chairs.
What stands out now in the fashion landscape is a unique clash between past and present. Bold stripes mix with embroidery and even quirky trinkets that once adorned grandmother’s wardrobe. Retro sensibilities are then materialised into more wearable palettes with a mix of luxury and subtle novelty. Here’s how this revival can serve as an inspiration:
- Classic Checks: From micro sizes to oversized patterns, checks have defined the fashion landscape for many seasons. A go-to for Autumn, the contemporary pieces are rendered in shades of blues, greens, and browns. To add extra personality, opt for an unexpected colour or make a subtle statement with an accessory like a braided belt.
- Mix and Match: When it comes to this look, the amalgamation of novelty and sophistication is key to creating an authentic outfit. Pair a modern mini dress with polished brogues and add a classic touch with a net-buckled bag for an ensemble of the retro revival.
- Pop of Colour: It’s not just the shape that can recreate a retro look, but also the colour palette. Hot pinks, baby blues and sunny yellow provide an instant play of poise and a vibrant splash of chicness.
The takeaway – don’t reserve nostalgia just for a special occasion. The wardrobe classics of yesteryear can become style favourites with the re-introduction of pops of colour, bold checks and mix-and-match pieces.
2. From Classic to Cutting-Edge: How Retro Styles are Redefined
Classic trends may never go out of style for good, but they often have to be reinvented in order to fit into modern wardrobe. Many labels have successfully reinterpreted retro styles, proving that past decades still have a place in the current fashion scene.
Here are some of the most iconic retro looks that have been modernized recently.
- Vintage Florals. Pretty frills and flowery motifs are making a return as ultra-feminine dress and skirt ensembles, as well as summer-friendly floral print shorts and crop tops.
- 50s-Inspired silhouette. Think high-waist jeans, fit-and-flare dresses, and full midi skirts. Even full skirts are getting a facelift with unexpected asymmetrical hemlines and bold hues.
- Sporty vibes. Cycling trousers and retro-style tracksuits are seen in bright, acid hues – a far cry from the muted versions we know from the 80s!
Thanks to the creative energy of fashion designers and streetwear labels, retro looks are hardly a thing of the past. In fact, you’d hardly recognize the modern versions of these looks now since they’ve been reimagined in innovative and unexpected ways.
For those with an eye for style, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to rocking a vintage look. With a combination of creative twists and modern silhouettes, retro styles can be redefined for the present day.
3. Rekindling Retro Romance: How the Old Becomes the New Again
As we develop and embrace the new technologies of the future, the more appreciation we tend to have for the cultural past. Music, movies, trends, literature, and fashion – all of these can re-emerge and be reborn into the modern world. So why not love?
Weaving in a tango from a bygone era, retro romance is either rekindling relationships that were once suspended in time, or reigniting that familiar flame with someone else. Taking the popular of yesteryear, here is how the old can become the new again:
- See the Strength in Nostalgia – Many couples have already been together in the past. Perhaps it was in past relationship, a previous tryst, or a youthful first love. Revisiting the past can help forge a sense of comfort and understanding, bringing stories and experiences to the present day.
- Playing by the Rules – While keen on recapturing the past, it’s important to note what worked the first time was probably an even mix of shared understanding and mutual respect – so that’s likely what will work this time.
- Redefining the Commitment – Retro romance can re-establish that intimate bond, like a re-release of good old feelings. Just remember that if you are taking a walk down memory lane, it’s good to be clear of the expectations of a happily ever after.
There are many ways to make the old feel new again, and rekindling retro romance is a testament to the fact that love doesn’t have an expiration date. Seize the moment, revive the past – and enjoy every happy beat – as the music of the past finds its way into the future.
4. The Nostalgic Impact of Retro Trends: Both Old and New Outlooks in Fashion
Fashion trends always come and go in cycles, which means that what is ‘in’ one season is often out the next. The days of mom jeans and shoulder pads may have come and gone, but today, there is a new outlook on fashion which draws heavily on past garments and styles – retro fashion. Retro fashion is back in a big way and it’s here to stay, from poodle skirts to bell bottoms.
While retro fashion can be thought of as nostalgic, it certainly isn’t backwards. The retro styles of today look ahead, taking the best of old fashion elements and infusing them with a modern twist. The trend is even pushing boundaries, as fashion-forward people all over the world combine vintage pieces with contemporary silhouettes and accessories to make some truly unique looks.
The beauty of retro fashion lies in its ability to bring back the familiar while also looking to the future. Whether you’re a fan of vintage items or simply like to incorporate some classic elements into your wardrobe, this trend will keep you looking fresh and stylish. There are plenty of ways to take part in the retro revolution – here are some of our favorites:
- Turtlenecks: Get your Mr. Rodgers on with a turtleneck sweater for a classic look that never goes out of style.
- High-waisted Jeans: Very popular in the late 70s and early 80s, these jeans are making a major comeback.
- Retro T-Shirts: Nothing says classic like a retro t-shirt. The best part? You don’t need to sacrifice comfort for style.
- Silky Blouses: These blouses look great tucked in, paired with jeans, and make any outfit instantly timeless.
Retro fashion is here to stay, so why not embrace it? No matter what your style is, you’re sure to find something to love with this trend. From the 90s or the 20s, retro fashion has something for everyone.
So, there you have it: a look into fashion’s past revealed the secret to its present. With nostalgic trends coming back in full swing, the fashion industry is sure to go on for years and decades reworking and reinventing these classic looks to fit our ever-evolving times. Like love, fashion’s embrace of the past will never completely go away.
