You probably have that friend who always seems to pull off the vintage look so well that you take one look at them and think to yourself, "That's cute but I could never pull that off."
Well friends, roll up your sleeves and don't be afraid to dig in to your local thrift store. After all, it is one of the most eco-friendly ways to shop.
Here are a few do's and don't for wearing vintage style...
- Dress around one statement piece. Find a really amazing vintage coat or dress and mix with some modern neutrals.
- Don't wear vintage from head to toe! pair a vintage piece with a very modern piece - after all you don't want to look like your wearing a costume. Mix a vintage full skirt with a plain tank top or a vintage 1970's shirt with skinny jeans.
- If you are going to wear a very vintage dress make your hair and make-up a little more modern - maybe don't wear that 1940's dress with bright red lipstick and curled hair - instead go for a simple smokey eye and top knot.
- Don't pass up the old lady section of your local vintage store...you can find some amazing tailored pieces in there. The trick to not looking like a librarian is to split up the suit and make 2 vintage looks out of one.
- Don't forget about vintage accessories!
- Don't buy pieces that don't fit you. I always make the mistake of buying something that I think I will alter or will somehow magically fit me when I get home - but inevitably those pieces end up back at the thrift store. Sure you should buy a few things that are a little out of your comfort zone, but unless you have a good tailor - don't buy garments that don't fit you.
- On the other hand there are a few things you can do to update a garment easily. Try a dress without the shoulder pads, think about what it would look like hemmed or add a couple of buttons.
- Don't get too carried away! Some things like a 1950's hourglass dress, 1970's classic blazer, and 1920's straight cut dress will always work, but please don't wear the disco pants or the sequins/shoulder padded dress you just found.
The Louissa Dress below is one of our favorite vintage inspired pieces. It is handcrafted in Ghana, Africa by Betty from recycled flour sacks and buttons. With the slightly open back and super lightweight feel it makes the perfect Summer dress!
