Like the finest wardrobe, like the finest wine, a vintage dress is the supreme item you own. To make it everyday and accessible, you must envision yourself using it again and again. Whatever era you love, whatever dress you’ve always wanted to have, make sure you don’t fall into the traps of over extending your era or choosing the same color every time. Here’s to making your vintage fashion accessible, one item at a time.
Focus on the Details:
What vintage shoppers often miss is the intricacy of a true vintage dress. While the forties and fifties styles have truly reached a height in fashion, buying just any dress like it won’t do. Focus on little details like collar, hemline, sleeves and waistline to be sure that you have elements of a true vintage style. Take hats, jewelry, and shoes into vintage consideration as well.
Research Your Era:
Don’t get stuck in a rut. A Gothic dress is almost never black (unless in mourning). A victorian gown will never hem above the ankle. While there are many shoddy replicas out there, familiarizing with your era, even just in authentic photos or portraits will brighten your wardrobe and make that vintage style pop with authenticity.
The two dresses below have elements that are similar, but one is a true 1920s and the other is a hybrid of modern length and sleeves. Which do you think would be more appropriate for a 1920s party?
Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Eras:
To piggyback on our last topic, don’t get stuck in the same era. Vintage lovers everywhere may have a favorite style they include in everyday life. You’ll go farther in your authentic vintage wardrobe if you have formal Gothic dresses for weddings, Edwardian dresses for tea parties and ladies luncheons. Choose a Victorian for theatre, opera and gala attendance. You’ll surprise yourself how many vintage styles can be included in one closet.
Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Colors:
Another rut we shoppers find ourselves in – the same color across the board. We know we all like a great little black dress, but changing up the color can do wonders for any vintage loving lady. How many of you have a brown silk dress? Anyone braved a red dress? With vintage fashion to choose from, branch out and you’ll still keep any color classy.
Make What you Have Work It Too:
You certainly don’t have to forget about what you have. Take items in your wardrobe and envision how they can be used. The forties and fifties were big on separates. Take a tent dress sitting in the back of your closet and cinch low on the waist for a 1920s flapper style. Waistline is important for any vintage fashion, and this is no exception. Separates should be included in every wardrobe. They refresh the style and allow for a multitude of changes.
With tons of new ideas flowing, you’ll be surprised how quickly your wardrobe fills with varied eras, different prints and colors, new textures and styles. True vintage love should grow over time and include little gems you’ve found over time. True vintage fashion begins with your own creativity. What do you see yourself looking for in your next vintage shopping spree?