Mixing vintage and modern clothing is a way of dressing that combines the past-era influences with the trends of today, without being completely out of modern or just following fast-changing trends. Whether a cape-like jacket, a tea dress or a blouse with a dropped shoulder, each vintage inspired piece carries traces of the past decades.
Most modern wardrobes consist of basic tops, straight-cut trousers and comfortable pieces designed to meet the demands of the modern world. Just as past decades had their own culture, the modern world also has its own habits and requirements. Therefore, it is not always possible to completely abandon these pieces in the modern world, nor may it be necessary. When these two styles come together, a unique and personalised style can be created.
At this point, the important thing is to create styles inspired by the past, a natural part of today's fashion. A dress with a strong waist emphasis and flared skirt, when combined with a modern-cut blazer, a basic trench coat and flats or a 50s pencil dress when combined with a leather jacket can create a vintage inspired look also suitable for modern settings.
Collectif London's collections, inspired by the 1940s to 1970s and designed with modern cuts, fabrics and production techniques, can help carry the spirit of past decades into the modern world.
How to Create Modern Outfits With Vintage Inspired Clothing?
When creating a mixed vintage and modern look, the most effective way to use pieces inspired by the past is to match them with modern fashion trends. The main aim here is not to copy the aesthetics of the 40s, 50s, 60s or 70s exactly; it is to take that spirit and adapt it to daily city life, modern cuts and modern dress codes. In doing so, pairing iconic pieces from the past with modern classics can be helpful. Fitted dresses, flared skirts, high-waisted trousers and tops with shoulder details, when paired with skinny trousers, basic tops, modern blazers and shoes, can create a timeless style, carrying traces of the past and suitable for modern life.
Starting with One, Focal Piece
When blending the past and the modern world together in the same outfit, the easiest way to start is choosing a single focal piece instead of multiple vintage-inspired clothes. A high-waisted 40s-inspired trousers, swing dress, and a sweetheart jersey top of 50s or a 60s inspired miniskirt can form the basis of the outfit. Combining these pieces with skinny jeans, a basic T-shirt or trainers can capture the spirit of both eras.
Adding a Contemporary Touch to Classic Styles
Defined waistlines, flared skirts, puffy sleeves, wide-leg, high-waisted trousers or pencil dresses and skirts are the defining features of past decades. The most important factor in bringing these designs up to date is to pair them with basic pieces. For example, a full skirt can be suited with a fitted top, or a quilted jacket can be paired with cigarette trousers. These combinations maintain vintage details while adapting easily to the fast pace of city life.
Establishing the Right Balance Between Volume and Simplicity
The vintage fashion, especially 50s, 60s and 70s, is characterized by freedom of movement. During these years, women generally preferred either wide-leg trousers, flared dresses for ease of movement, mini and/or pencil skirts and dresses, which emphasised femininity.
Today, when mixing vintage with modern fashion, one of the most important points is balanced body proportions. For example, pairing wide-leg trousers or a layered maxi skirt with an oversized T-shirt can result in an overly exaggerated look. Instead, if you are going to wear loose and comfortable retro-inspired or a skirt, it would be more appropriate to combine them with a basic white and black shirt or a padded jacket with denim jeans.
Completing Vintage Colors and Prints with Neutral Tones
Many pieces inspired by past decades are ambitious in both pattern and colour, as well as fabric texture. For this reason, when creating an outfit, it may be accurate first to place this strong piece at the centre and then continue with muted tones and simple textures. For example, you can complete a floral, vibrant dress with a cream, black or navy bag or a similar-toned pair of flats; in the same way, you can pair an animal-print skirt, like a leopard-print, with a black jumper and a simple belt.
Common Vintage Mix Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes when doing a vintage mix is trying to dress from head to toe from the past. For example, when you wear a 50s inspired polka swing dress together with the pin up hairstyle, or 70s disco make-up, the look may move away from daily life.
Another trap is using pattern and colour at the same intensity in all pieces; when a floral dress, patterned tights, a very colourful, printed bag and shoes come together, an overwhelming style can emerge. When putting together an outfit, leaving at least one piece simple, limiting the colour palette to a few tones and keeping accessories in moderation preserves the character of the vintage effect while also making it easy to adapt to everyday life.
If you would like to bring vintage fashion into your life, choosing pieces that are inspired by the past but made with modern construction, techniques and cuts will make things much easier. Within Collectif London's vintage inspired collections, you can find many pieces suitable with your basics, jeans and modern accessories. Explore Collectif London's collections now to create outfits that bring vintage and modern together in your wardrobe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mixing Vintage and Modern Clothing
How Do I Balance Bold Vintage Prints With Minimalist Modern Styles?
You can style a bold vintage piece with neutral colours like black, white, beige or navy, or choose the modern simple basic, clean-cut piece.
Can Vintage Jewellry Elevate A Minimalist Modern Outfit?
Yes, a cropped jacket paired with vintage earrings, or a basic T-shirt worn with a vintage inspired necklace, can instantly elevate the outfit.
Are Vintage Jackets Suitable To Style With Modern Streetwear Pieces?
Vintage inspired denim or college-style jackets are suitable with modern streetwear clothes when combined with modern jeans, basic hoodies and sneakers. The important thing is that if the jacket is bold, keeping the other pieces simpler.
How Do I Pair Modern Shoes With Strong Vintage Outfits?
When you choose a strong vintage-inspired piece, you can complete it with simple shoes such as sleek ankle boots, loafers or sneakers.
