Remember the little black dress that celebrated Audrey Hepburn's svelte feminine charm in Breakfast at Tiffany's? Or the billowing white dress that turned the spotlight on Marilyn Monroe's sensuous beauty in The Seven Year Itch? Therein lies the unique appeal of retro dresses – they not only dominated the fashion landscape from the 1920s to the 1980s but are also inspiring 21st-century fashionistas. Today, vintage vibes are permeating contemporary dresses to create an exclusive concoction of glamour, sophistication, impressive craftsmanship, and gorgeous detailing.
Modern retro dresses are a nod to the character and artistry of an era long gone yet dear to our hearts. Hence, it's no wonder that bold colours, psychedelic prints, and puff sleeves are making a confident comeback. Now, let's delve into the special aspects of vintage-style dresses, how to pick one, and the top ways to accessorise them.
Specialties of Retro Dresses
Top celebrities like Bella Hadid, Rihanna, and Kylie Jenner are driving the resurgence of retro dresses currently – why so? Here are the top reasons.
Timeless Shapes
Retro dresses accentuate natural curves and the beauty of the female form. They flatter what you like best about your body, often through hourglass and A-line cuts.
Top-Quality Fabrics
Vintage fashion uses velvet, satin, silk, and lace extensively. Hence, retro dresses look classy, whether you are attending a cocktail party, a corporate meeting, or an upscale brunch.
Elaborate embellishments
Whether they involve beads, sequins, embroidery, buttons, pearls, or lacework, vintage-style dresses are easily identifiable by their intricate embellishments. These lend an exclusive character to every dress, differentiating it from mass-produced pieces.
Nostalgia
Vintage vibes in contemporary dresses honour the cultural movements, unique styles, and cherished memories of yesteryears. They remind us of a time when life was simple yet teeming with quaint charm.
Versatility
The retro dresses online are combined with modern sensibilities to survive changing trends. You can not only make a stylish statement in them for many years, but also transition easily from day to night and from formal to casual events.
Choosing a Retro Dress
There are multiple factors to consider when picking a dress that resonates with your personality, style, body, as well as the occasion and time of day.
Fit
A-line, flared, and skater dresses help you achieve an hourglass look, as they feature a fitted top and flouncy skirt. Bodycon, wrap, slim, and skinny styles flatter toned figures beautifully. For a casual look, a boxy, oversized, or relaxed fit is more suitable. Front-drape dresses can conceal problem areas like the midsection.
Length
Short dresses are great for shopping sprees, casual dates, or friendly meetups. If you want something for a party, semi-casual event, or traditional occasion, pick up a midi or long dress.
Neckline
V-necks flatter all bodies and create the illusion of extra height. Halter necks, boat necks, strappy, and strapless options are great for flaunting toned shoulders and backs. Plunging necklines and off-shoulder designs make a sultry statement.
Sleeves
Sleeveless dresses or those with bell, cap, or puff sleeves, look amazing on women with toned arms. Half, quarter, and full sleeves are more apt for formal occasions.
Fabric
During summer, retro dresses made of linen, cotton, crepe, georgette, or chiffon keep you comfortable while making a classy statement. When the temperature dips, opt for silk, satin, velvet, viscose, or rayon. Heading to an upscale event? Pick a dress in satin, silk, velvet, lace, or georgette.
Colour
Neutrals like beige, white, grey, and black are apt for formal events, while jewel tones like red, green, blue, and purple add life to festive or fun occasions in the evenings. If you want something soothing and full of vintage appeal, choose pastel shades of pink, yellow, green, or blue.
Pattern
Vintage-style dresses come in a mind-blowing array of patterns. Up for something truly retro? Polka dots, stripes, checks, embroidered, paisley, or floral will do the trick. Printed dresses are especially appropriate for casual occasions. For a simple or formal look, go with solids or choose colour-block. Sequinned dresses are best for evening parties.
Picking Accessories for Retro Dresses
Striking a balance between old-world charm and modernity is the key to accessorising retro dresses. Here are some helpful tips.
Hats and Scarves
A simple, broad-brimmed hat can enhance your retro dress's appeal on a sunny day. A straw, white, or black one will keep things simple yet chic. A scarf can also add definition to a vintage dress. If the dress is in a solid colour, a printed scarf can add visual interest, and vice versa. In cool weather, pair party dresses with silk or satin shawls.
Shoes
Stilettoes, block heels, and kitten heels not only pair nicely with retro dresses but also add to your height. If you prefer comfort, consider ballet flats. In terms of colour, match the shoes with your dress if you like. However, a nude, tan, or taupe shade is versatile and contemporary.
Jewellery
For a casual or daytime event, pair your retro dress with hoop earrings or drop earrings. For evening occasions or parties, choose chandelier earrings set with pearls or stones. Pearl necklaces, chokers, and artistic stone pendants are perfect for adorning your neck. You can also liven up a simple retro dress with an antique brooch. If your dress is patterned or bright, keep the jewellery simple and minimal. Go a little heavy on the bling if the dress is neutral-hued or has clean lines.
Bags
To carry your things while acing the vintage vibe, opt for a tote bag during the daytime or when you are out shopping. A sling bag is ideal for casual parties, while a clutch embellished with beads or crystals is the right pick for upscale events.
Conclusion
Retro dresses are here to stay, be it for their timeless appeal, distinctive lines, charming embellishments, or luxurious fabrics. Additionally, to keep up with the spirit of contemporary fashion, where trends change in the blink of an eye, these dresses are available in a dizzying range of colours, patterns, fits, and materials. So, keep this guide handy to pick up dresses that marry the magic of the past with the practicality of the present seamlessly.
