In recent years it seems like we've been transported back to the middle of the 20th century in terms of style. Some call it the Mad Men effect; there's no denying that the hit drama set in 1960s Manhattan has had a major influence on both clothing and interior design fashions. Whether women are wanting to emulate Joan Holloway and Betty Draper, or are subconsciously wishing to return to a period of economic prosperity (neatly sidestepping the rampant misogyny of the day!), there's no denying that the retro styles have come back in a big way.
What are the benefits of this? Well, the shape and cut of dresses and skirts from the era are certainly aesthetically pleasing. Both flared and pencil skirts, the two main silhouettes are universally flattering - and the shift dress, undeniably the quintessential style of the youths at the time - has maintained its popularity thanks to its simplicity and true innovation. Before this time women were discouraged from showing off their legs, but with the sexual revolution and second wave of feminism, the girls were ready to be in charge of their own bodies, and that included what they wore.
Before this time women were dispirited from showing off their legs, but with the sexual revolution and second wave of feminism, the girls were willing to be in charge of their own bodies, and that included what they wore.
If you need to participate in with the craze but are concerned it's already on the out, brush away those problems! At London Fashion Week, everyone's much-loved punk grandma Vivienne Westwood, exhibited a collection which has been described as 'fifties housewives on acid' - in the greatest sense, needless to say! Beautifully fitted dresses, neat blouses paired with pencil skirts, and retro bathing suits reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe were noticed on the catwalk to much exhilaration.
Get to know the staff and tell them the types of pieces you love - if you get on well, they may even put things aside that they know you will appreciate. Scour eBay and etsy for bargains and play with the search terms incase things are misspelled or important details are omitted.
Also remember to keep an eye on the high street as designer influences are appearing their faster and faster every year. It's never been easier to find your ideal vintage dress so get to it and make your friends jealous; when they ask you where it's from, say 'It's Vintage' with a smile and be safe in the knowledge that they can't copy your fantastic look!
What are the benefits of this? Well, the shape and cut of dresses and skirts from the era are certainly aesthetically pleasing. Both flared and pencil skirts, the two main silhouettes are universally flattering - and the shift dress, undeniably the quintessential style of the youths at the time - has maintained its popularity thanks to its simplicity and true innovation. Before this time women were discouraged from showing off their legs, but with the sexual revolution and second wave of feminism, the girls were ready to be in charge of their own bodies, and that included what they wore.
Before this time women were dispirited from showing off their legs, but with the sexual revolution and second wave of feminism, the girls were willing to be in charge of their own bodies, and that included what they wore.
If you need to participate in with the craze but are concerned it's already on the out, brush away those problems! At London Fashion Week, everyone's much-loved punk grandma Vivienne Westwood, exhibited a collection which has been described as 'fifties housewives on acid' - in the greatest sense, needless to say! Beautifully fitted dresses, neat blouses paired with pencil skirts, and retro bathing suits reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe were noticed on the catwalk to much exhilaration.
Get to know the staff and tell them the types of pieces you love - if you get on well, they may even put things aside that they know you will appreciate. Scour eBay and etsy for bargains and play with the search terms incase things are misspelled or important details are omitted.
Also remember to keep an eye on the high street as designer influences are appearing their faster and faster every year. It's never been easier to find your ideal vintage dress so get to it and make your friends jealous; when they ask you where it's from, say 'It's Vintage' with a smile and be safe in the knowledge that they can't copy your fantastic look!
