A pair of 1940s sensible shoes with a 70s midi-skirt. High waisted skirts with over-the-knee boots. Polka dot shirts with bell-bottom pants. Retro fashion is here to stay, and why not? What other form of styling allows you to live on a budget and recycle while expressing your own unique personality?
Considered by some to be a new trend in shopping, retro fashions have actually been growing in popularity since the early 1990s. Always on the cutting edge, whether politically, professionally or for her wardrobe choices, Barbara Streisand was one of the first megastars to sing the praises of retro/vintage dressing. Soon followed by the likes of Bette Midler, Kate Moss, Julia Roberts and Madonna, the retro trend was in full swing by the dawn of the new millennium and continues through today.
The majority of retro clothing (fashions from 1940-1980) has been previously worn. However, there are occasionally pieces that surface from old warehouse stock or the back of someone’s closet. These unworn pieces are rare and more valuable than their previously owned counterparts, especially if they still carry their original price tags. But beware. Items that have never been in circulation are sometimes warehouse “deadstock” that was held back because the pieces were flawed. Exercise caution here and take a moment to examine old clothing with the original tags.
Selecting the proper size in retro clothing takes some adjusted thinking. What constituted a size medium in the 1970s would be more appropriately labeled and extra-small by today’s standards. In general, people were smaller pre-1980 — in fact, obesity was all but unheard of. For this reason most retro clothing did not come in XL or XXL. If you have trouble finding retro clothing in your size you might consider making your own from the wide selection of “new” retro patterns available.
A strong factor in the popularity of retro fashion has to be the incredible span of styles that evolved during in the mid-20th century. Adaptable to any age or price range, selections vary from Disco and Glam-Rock to the simplicity of the Peasant, Surfer and “Annie Hall” looks. In fancier pre-1980s restaurants women were not allowed to wear slacks pre-1980, inspiring the creation of the more acceptable flare legged jumpsuit. Skirt styles ran the gambit from mini to maxi, dependent upon you taste. Tie dye fabric and “love beads” allowed you create your own fashions at home and for the rebellious there was always leather and Punk.
Fashion experts suggest several tips to get you started on your “retro-robe”. The essentials include high-cut jeans that sit just above the navel, polka dot and striped fabric for skirts, shirts and accessory pieces, over-sized sunglasses. Bright colors for day wear and gold lame and sequined fabrics for evening — and hats, hats, hats.
Shopping venues abound for retro clothing. Women of the mid-20th Century were a frugal lot who seldom discarded their out of style clothing, making Mom or Grandma’s closet a great (and affordable) way to start your search. Other popular venues include, flea markets, consignment shops, garage sales and second hand shops. Online shopping offers both convenience and a wide range of selections. Check out eBay, Etsy, ModCloth.com and Vintagetrends.com. Until next time……..Linda
Irvington resident Linda Kennett is a professional liquidator specializing in down-sizing for senior and the liquidation of estates and may be reached at 317-356-8967 or lkennett@indy.rr.com