This is the ultimate time-travel experience: go back to the iconic eras of years past, and witness the fashion of some of the biggest celebrities. We’re talking about celebrity looks from the past that have since cemented themselves into our culture, and we’re here to explain just why these styles have been so influential in the world of fashion, and why vintage celebrity dress is something that we all still look towards. Let’s travel back in time and explore the most stylish looks of the classic eras.
1. The Glamour of Vintage Celebrity Fashion
Vintage celebrity fashion has an iconic glamour that remains timeless and effortlessly cool. The pieces evoke feelings of nostalgia, reminding us of a bygone era. We may not be able to step back in time, but we can bring back the look with these simple tips.
- Monochromatic Color Scheme: One hallmark of classic vintage fashion is the use of a limited color palette. Pair subdued shades like black, grey, and navy blue with a bright pop of accent color. Whether it’s a dramatic belt, red heel, or statement jewelry, select one element to stand out and let the rest of the look blend together.
- Polished Accessories: Our favorite style icons – Audrey Hepburn, Jackie O, and Marilyn Monroe – always had the perfect finishing touches. Vintage-style sunglasses, lace collared dresses, and buckle shoes give any woman that classic celebrity allure.
- Fabric Details: Staying true to vintage fashion, look for pieces with material like cotton, polyester, velvet, and wool. Select items with lace details or subtle embroidery and combine them for an eclectic yet vintage flair.
Most importantly, your vintage celebrity look is about having fun and experimenting with different styles. Create a signature look that speaks to your individual personality and shows off your own glamour.
2. Exploring Iconic Clothes Through Time
Clothes have the power to tell stories about their times and the cultures they embody. Iconic clothes have been used to express personal style, wealth, power and even rebellion across the world.
- In medieval Europe, fashion revolved around sumptuary laws when barons, knights and their families were seen wearing intricate clothing. It was a sign of wealth and status for the upper classes.
- During the Elizabethan era, fashion like puff sleeves, ruffs and brocades was seen as a mark of aristocracy. Richly embellished fabrics also disclosed the social standing of the wearer.
Fashion in the 19th century underwent many changes, with men wearing day gowns, top hats and sticks. Women, on the other hand, donned long gowns with short waistlines over petticoats and bustles. It was commonly believed that petticoats created an hourglass silhouette for an extraordinary look.
In the 20th century, the fashion trends shifted to simpler silhouettes and prints. The 1950s was famous for the introduction of jeans for both men and women, while the 1960s saw a revolution with miniskirts, crop tops and polka dots. The same decade is also credited for giving birth to PVC rainwear and the trend of sporting military jackets.
3. Fashion of the 50s: Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe
The 1950s was a decade with a distinct style, and it was popularized by icons like Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe. These women showed that the ‘50s look was all about femininity and glamour.
Lucille Ball was a Hollywood star that really epitomized the fashion trends of the time. Her style was characterized by full skirts, colorful prints, and lots of accessories. She was known to pair boldly patterned dresses with wide belts and statement jewelry. Ball also had a knack for making bright colors look glamorous and was often seen in scarlet red and hot pink.
Marilyn Monroe was a symbol of ‘50s fashion as well. Her dresses were always tight fitting and showcased the iconic hourglass silhouette of the decade. Monroe favored soft fabrics such as chiffon and silk, and her wardrobe usually included a plunging neckline or a pair of sheer, knee-length gloves. She often accessorized with statement jewelry like necklaces and large sunglasses.
In the 1950s, fashion was all about being glamorous and feminine. Luille Ball and Marilyn Monroe served as shining examples of this style, which is still revered today as an iconic era of fashion.
4. All the Bells and Whistles: Fashion Trends of the 60s
The groovy, psychedelic 60s were a time of many fashion revolutions, and the influence of this era can still be seen today in some ways. From the outrageous mod fashion of London to the flamboyant hippie chic of San Francisco, 60s fashion was full of diverse and creative looks.
The Rise of Mod:
In Britain, Mods (short for Modernists) were the predominant subculture during the 60s. This group was known for their tailored, sharp-lined clothing and nifty accessories. Typically wearing a combination of—a polo shirt, trimmed jacket, fitted trousers, and a flashy scarf—the Mods was all about standing out and catching looks, and it’s a style that has been celebrated in the media in recent years.
Flower Power:
The hippies of the 1960s had an entirely different look and attitude. They embraced free love, psychedelics, and a lot of peace and understanding. Their fashion resembled this laidback, dippy atmosphere—loose-fitting garments with bright colors and lively prints. Typical hippie ensembles included:
- Long lacy skirts and blouses with embroidery
- Flowerchild halters and flared jeans
- Tunic tops paired with bell-bottom jeans
- Headscarves and peace symbol jewelry
There were, however, a few uniting style elements among these groups. Bell-bottom jeans, buckle shoes, fur vests, and miniskirts were popular trends for all during the 60s. The decade was definitely all about bell-bottoms and flamboyant accessories, both of which are still quite trendy today.
5. A Magical Mash-Up: 70s Retro Style
The 70s saw a mix of styles, color palettes, and trend-setters that had everyone talking – from wide-legged jeans to ruffled blouses and platform shoes. And the interior design trends of the decade weren’t keen to miss out on the action! Known for its retro-modern fusion, 70s style created a unique aesthetic that was magical in its mash-up – something that is still capturing imaginations today.
If you’re looking to incorporate70s style into your interior decoration, then there are a few key elements to remember. For instance, primary colors are pivotal to capturing that retro feel, particularly mustard yellow, burnt orange, and deep olive. Wood panelling, chunky furniture, and textured fabrics also give a strong 70s edge. Terracotta and natural materials help to bring a touch of nature into the mix, as well as ceramics, glass, and mirrors to give off a gleam.
What else can you do to give your room a 70s touch? Try these tips:
- Swap out neutrals for bold hues – think bright blue, greens, and purples.
- Patterns, prints, and textiles are a must – look out for floral, stripes, geometric, and textured artisan prints.
- Choose circular shapes – think lighting, rugs, and other accessories.
- Go for the old-school glam – a mirrored sideboard or velvet sofa adds a touch of nostalgia.
If you can mix and match these elements, you’ll have a room that’ll be the talk of the town – just like it was back in the 70s.
Vintage celebrity fashion is a perfect way to add some timeless flare to your wardrobe. Whether you appreciate Marilyn Monroe’s classic glamour or David Bowie’s progressive rocker style, this time-traveling fashion through iconic eras is a fun, creative way to express yourself. So, go ahead, put on your finest duo-tone sunnies and your best faux fur coat and strut your vintage stuff.
