The fashion industry is no stranger to change, and the trends of ‘retro revival’ are no exception. As the years go on, it’s becoming more and more obvious that nostalgic looks are making a comeback. Whether it’s a ’70s jumpsuit, a ’90s denim jacket, or a classic ’80s power suit, the recent shift in fashion clearly demonstrates that style trends of the past are influencing today’s designs. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ‘retro revival’, exploring why these looks are resurfacing, and which ones are here to stay.
1. Taking it Back to the Past: A Look at the Retro Revival
As we move into a new wave of fashion trends and looks, there’s also a retro revival taking place. Whether you’re looking to channel your inner Jackie O or Madonna from the ‘80s, the nostalgia of those decades is inspiring many fashionistas.
The 70s and 80s take centre stage for this trend, with standout items like bell bottoms, power jumpsuits, and statement tees paired with vintage accessories. Bold colours, graphics, and patterns make this retro look pop. Scrolling through fashion feeds and magazines, you’ll be sure to spot everything from polka dots to tie-dye.
Retro style doesn’t have to mean a costume-like feel either. Putting a modern twist on the vintage garments can make the look even chicer. Here are some of the ways you can update a retro look:
- Choose a minimalist platform sandal instead of a chunky clog
- Style a pair of flares with a tucked-in oversized button-down shirt
- Opt for a cropped fitted blazer instead of an oversized silhouette
If you’re feeling adventurous, mix different decades and create a look all your own. Whether it’s pairing ‘90s cargo shorts with a vintage jazz blouse or an ‘80s logo tee with mid-century trousers, the possibilities are endless. Jump on the retro bandwagon and give your wardrobe some throwback flair.
2. Soaring Sales and Smiling Faces: Consumers Embrace Retro Trends
In recent years, fashion, home decor, music, and entertainment have trended towards a throwback to mid-century décor and styles. Consumers have embraced these retro trends, picking up iconic pieces from the ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s. And it seems like a good call, too: soaring sales prove that the fresh-again retro market has no plans of quieting down anytime soon.
Whether it’s an all-pink Barbie Dreamhouse for the kiddos or a vinyl record for the adults, retailers have capitalized on bringing back nostalgic favorites from the past. Apparel lines, department stores, and gift shops have all added throwback pieces to their inventory. Classic cars, board games, and even hairstyles have all come back to life, and people are adoring them!
- The fashion world has gotten creative, taking cues from iconic time periods and inspiration from fashion icons of both the past and present — think ’60s go-go boots and punk-rock leather jackets.
- Home decor has taken a big turn, too — velvet couches, bright colors, and geometric shapes inspired by the vibrant ’60s and ’70s.
- Music has boomed in popularity, with vinyl records being purchased for the ‘warmth’ of the sound as well as the collectability factor.
From Generation Y to Baby Boomers, consumers of all ages are smiling at the sight of the colorful classics that are now back in style. With no signs of any retro items going out of fashion anytime soon, it looks like these smiley faces won’t be disappearing anytime soon!
3. Shopping with Style: Finding That Vintage Look that Fits Any Occasion
When it comes to going the vintage route for your fashion needs, it can be daunting to figure out what works and what doesn’t. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible! Indeed, with the right tips and know-how, anyone can look like a sophisticated fashionista from yesteryear.
Here are some key tips for getting your vintage-inspired look right:
- Opt for classic silhouettes. A-line skirts and button-down shirts never go out of style and with smart accessorizing you can create a timeless look.
- Make sure your clothes actually look vintage. To do this, choose more unique pieces that are well-made and full of character. Look for distressed detailing and items with embroidery and patchwork as these tend to look more authentically vintage.
- Keep it modern. Vintage pieces can easily look outdated and tired, to avoid this try mixing up your look with modern pieces. Think of pairing a classic floral sundress with a modern jacket or put a lace blouse with a pair of skinny jeans to keep it current.
Ultimately, the great thing about vintage style is that it is typically timeless. You don’t need to throw away last season’s styles or worry about constantly chasing the latest trends. With a bit of effort and creativity, you can put together an outfit that looks as if straight out of the Oscars of yesteryear.
4. Making a Statement: Reviving the Fashions of Ages Past
Artists and fashionistas alike have been reinterpreting classic style for generations in an effort to start conversations, making statements, and act as an advocate for modern-day principles. For example:
- Elevating classic silhouettes and fabrications that have stood the test of time
- Transforming vintage garments with modern-day trends
- Retrofitting foundational pieces in fresh colors and textures
From the utilization of patchwork pieces and manual labor techniques to the clustering and overlap of bold pattern prints, fashionistas are embracing aesthetic codes from ages past. Redesigning for newness, while retaining the excellence of classic ingredients, offers an inviting edge to all.
The goal is to create eye-catching, modern garments that evoke twentieth-century designs. By challenging the industry’s conventional ideas of garment design, fashionistas can affect radical change in the world of fashion. With the combination of classic elements and modern design, fashionistas can create fashionable and innovative wardrobe pieces, while making a statement.
5. An Unstoppable Trend: Why the Retro Revival Refuses to Fade
Retro fashion trends are more popular than ever, and this isn’t likely to change any time soon. The ’70s, ’80s and ’90s continue to make a major fashion statement, with classic pieces like bell-bottom jeans, chunky trainers and faux-leather biker jackets being reintroduced to modern wardrobes. Here are five reasons why the retro revival refuses to fade:
- Longevity: The timelessness of retro pieces ensure that they continue to look impressive, no matter the season or year.
- Statement Pieces: Bold prints, bright colours and statement cuts make for a unique aesthetic, sure to turn heads wherever you go.
- Cost-Effective: Retro styles can often be found at a lower price point than contemporary designs, making them perfect for a quick wardrobe update.
- Celebrity Influence: Where celebrities walk, fashion follows. Popular musicians, actors and models set trends, and retro-inspired attire has been seen frequently on the red carpet recently.
- Versatility: Retro styles can be easily combined with existing wardrobe staples, allowing individuals to express themselves in unique ways.
As a result of the many reasons above, it is clear to see why the retro revival refuses to fade any time soon. Stylish and affordable, retro fashion is an enjoyable way for anybody to make a style statement this season.
From the most nostalgic revival to the most current trends, it’s certainly a great time to be alive and keeping up with fashion. As classic fashion trends continue to find their way off the runways and onto the streets, fashion is showing us that it only gets better with time.
