If you're looking for a way to stand out and express your unique taste, retro style might be exactly what you need. Wait, why? What is retro style? What makes retro style that promising and popular?
Well, retro style is popular because it brings the charm and character of past decades into today’s world. From bold patterns to iconic furniture, retro style adds a touch of nostalgia and individuality to any space or outfit.
Read on to know all the details regarding retro style and its long journey!
What Does Retro Mean?
The term "retro" refers to designs or styles inspired by the past, often recreating the look and feel of earlier eras.
The word comes from the Latin prefix "retro," meaning "backwards" or "in past times." Retro became popular in the 1970s to describe new creations that bring back the charm of earlier periods.
In fashion, retro style includes clothing and accessories that imitate iconic trends, patterns, and silhouettes from past decades. This style blends nostalgia with a fresh twist, making it a lasting and versatile trend in fashion, art, and culture.
What Is Retro Fashion Style?
In short, Retro fashion style means modern clothing that is inspired by the styles, materials, and motifs of past eras, typically from the 1920s to the early 2000s.
This style brings back the best of the past, whether it's the bold patterns of the 70s, the vibrant colours of the 80s, or the quirky Y2K fashion of the early 2000s. Retro fashion mixes nostalgia with modern flair, making it a favourite for anyone who loves the charm of bygone eras while still staying current.
It’s all about blending old and new to create a look that's uniquely yours and timeless.
Are Retro and Vintage Styles the Same?
No, retro and vintage styles are not the same, though they are often confused. Vintage refers to original pieces from a specific era, usually 20 to 100 years old. This style reflects the fashion, materials, and craftsmanship of that time.
Retro, on the other hand, refers to modern items designed to imitate or replicate styles from the past, often blending old designs with new materials and techniques.
Here are the key comparisons between retro and vintage styles.
|
Comparison Factor |
Vintage Style |
Retro Style |
|
Age |
20 to 100 years old |
Mimics styles from past eras, usually recent |
|
Authenticity |
Original pieces from the era |
Modern recreations inspired by past styles |
|
Materials |
Made from original fabrics, hand-stitched |
Uses contemporary fabrics and modern methods |
|
Craftsmanship |
Often hand-stitched with finer detailing |
Typically machine-made with updated techniques |
|
Examples |
A 1940s dress tailored to the period |
A modern dress styled after 1950s fashion |
How Can You Get A Perfect Retro Look?
Creating the perfect retro look is all about embracing the iconic styles of past decades. By carefully choosing clothing, accessories, and hairstyles that reflect the era you love, you can effortlessly capture the charm and uniqueness of vintage fashion.
Choose the Right Era
1950s: Embrace the glamorous vibe of the 1950s with soft shapes, defined waists, and vibrant colors. Opt for dresses with polka dots, gingham, or floral prints.
Pair your outfit with vintage seamed stockings, faux fur accessories, and cat-eye sunglasses for an authentic look. Get a pair of white gloves for that ladylike touch.
1960s: Go for the 1960s Hippie Movement look with bell-bottom jeans and tie-dyed tops. Paisley prints and psychedelic designs are perfect for this era.
Add some flowy accessories, like boho scarves or flower headbands, and wear sandals or go barefoot for a true 60s feel.
1970s: The 70s had various style movements, from bohemian to glam rock and disco. For a boho look, wear a flowing, gauzy top with a long maxi skirt.
For glam rock, go all out with sequined or bedazzled outfits, feather boas, and bold makeup. Disco style calls for tight-fitting, sparkly clothing paired with platform shoes.
Also Read: What to Wear to a 70's Disco Party to Shine Under the Disco Ball?
1980s: The 80s were all about extravagance and bold colours.
Wear oversized tops with leggings or a miniskirt, and don neon colours for that iconic 80s flair. Acid-washed denim, whether in jackets or jeans, is a must. Finish your look with chunky accessories and quirky details like a fanny pack or a boombox.
Accessorise to Match the Era
1950s: Stick to simple, elegant accessories like faux fur collars, pearl necklaces, and small handbags. Saddle shoes or tasteful heels complete the look.
1960s: Opt for peace sign pendants, beaded jewellery, and large rings. Thrift stores are great for finding authentic accessories like chain belts or woven leather bracelets.
1970s: Go natural with accessories made from wood, shells, or feathers. Add large sunglasses and a big floppy hat for that classic 70s look. For glam rock or disco, choose glittery, sequined accessories and bold costume jewellery.
1980s: Go big with neon-coloured sunglasses, lots of bangles, and oversized hoop earrings. Lace gloves and headbands were also trendy, so don’t forget to include them.
Nail the Hairstyles
1950s: Go for tightly curled hair for the poodle cut or a glamorous curled and pinned style. Bouncy ponytails are also iconic.
1960s: Experiment with long, natural-looking hair parted down the middle or go for the beehive hairstyle. Add flowers or headbands for that Hippie touch.
1970s: Feathered, shaggy, or long centre-parted hair was in style. For glam rock, use dry shampoo to create volume and texture.
1980s: The bigger, the better! Tease your hair and use plenty of hairspray. Try crimped hair or a side ponytail for an authentic 80s look.
Perfect the Makeup
1950s: Keep it simple and elegant with bright red or pink lipstick, minimal eyeshadow, and lots of mascara. Cherry red nail polish is a must.
1960s: For a natural look, wear minimal makeup with pale lipstick. For a more dramatic style, try large false eyelashes and exaggerated eye makeup.
1970s: Shimmery eyeshadows and glitter trends were popular. For a natural look, choose pale peach or pink lipstick.
1980s: Go bold with neon eyeshadow, thick black eyeliner, and frosty lipstick. For inspiration, look to 80s icons like Madonna or Cyndi Lauper.
FAQs
When Was Retro Style Popular?
The retro style became popular in the 1970s when people started to revive and celebrate the fashion, music, and design trends from earlier decades, particularly the 1950s and 1960s. This trend continued into the 1980s and 1990s as nostalgia for past styles grew.
Is Retro Still in Style?
Yes, retro is still in style. People continue to embrace retro fashion, home décor, and design, blending old-school charm with modern trends. The appeal of retro lies in its timelessness and ability to evoke nostalgia. From clothing inspired by the 70s and 80s to vintage-inspired furniture, retro elements are widely popular.
What Is Modern Retro Style?
Modern retro style combines the charm of past decades with contemporary design elements. It involves using vintage-inspired patterns, colours, and shapes in clothing, décor, and accessories, but with a fresh, updated twist. This style blends nostalgic details with modern functionality.
EndNote
Now, “What is retro style?” is not a big question for you, right?
Retro style is all about bringing the past into the present, celebrating the iconic trends, patterns, and designs of previous decades. From fashion to home décor, retro style draws inspiration from the 1950s to the early 2000s, blending nostalgia with modern elements.
It’s a versatile and timeless look that appeals to all ages. It allows you to express your individuality while honouring the charm of earlier eras!