Vintage inspired dress collections for women refer to the redesigning and production of clothing pieces from scratch, influenced by past fashion trends. Clothing dates back almost as far as human history, and is a social, cultural, and psychological expression. Fashion is a dynamic field, determining the cultural and aesthetic codes of dressing, and therefore, each era creates its own fashion under the influence of social, political, and economic factors. Perhaps due to growing nostalgia, there is a tendency to bring old-fashioned trends into the present. Vintage clothing means re-evaluating clothing from past eras in the present day.

However, it is not always possible to find clothing from earlier periods. Even if it is available, it can be difficult to find clothing in the right size, with good fabric quality, and at an affordable price. Vintage inspired dresses arose from the need to meet this demand by redesigning and producing period clothing using modern technology.

Well-known for its retro dress collections, Collectif has successfully brought vintage influences into modern city life ever since it was established in Camden Market in 2000. Collectif's vintage dress collections take inspiration from the 1940s to the 1970s, using modern fabrics to create elegant and comfortable designs.

What is a Vintage Inspired Dress?

In the fashion world, the term ‘vintage’ usually describes clothes produced between the 1920s and 1990s, reflecting the distinctive styles of particular periods. Although the vintage and retro styles are often confused, vintage refers to original pieces from the period in question, while retro refers to reproductions of old styles. Interest in vintage clothing has grown rapidly over the past 20 years due to increasing criticism of fast fashion and a stronger desire to express individual style.

The vintage inspired or retro style does not refer to clothing from past eras, but rather to clothing produced today that is inspired by the cuts, patterns, and aesthetic sensibilities of the past. Unlike original vintage pieces, these garments are designed and produced from new materials to fit modern body measurements. Thus, women can experience the romance of the past combined with the practicality of the present.

Vintage Inspired Dresses for Women from Past to Present

A vintage dress outfit symbolises the development of fashion throughout history. From the liberated flapper styles of the 1920s, shaped by the functional designs of the war years of the 1930s and 1940s, to the feminine lines of 1950s dresses and the revolutionary styles created by youth and subcultures in 1960s fashion, each era contributes to the rich history of vintage dress style.

As Expressions of Women's Liberation: 1920s Flapper Dresses

In the 1920s, women's increasing liberation and active role in social life was symbolised by the prevalence of straight-cut, sleeveless, low-cut, knee-length flapper dresses. The short-haired, loose-dressing feminine silhouette was not just a fashion trend; it was also a symbol of social rebellion. Even today, women often turn to retro dress as a symbol of freedom.

1930s and 1940s Functional Elegance Vintage Dress Style

In response to the impact of the war years, simpler, more functional, and economical designs became popular in the 1930s and 1940s. Minimalism, like black vintage dress models, gained popularity, particularly due to fabric shortages, but elegance was also a defining feature of the era. This is why shoulder pads, high waistlines, and A-line skirts are characteristic symbols of retro vintage dresses in UK collections.

The New Look of the 1950s Fashion for Women

The Young Generation's Impact on 1960s Fashion

The 1960s were an era influenced by youth culture, characterised by mini dresses, geometric patterns, and bold colours. Mini skirts became a symbol of freedom during this period. Go-go boots, A-line dresses, and bold, graphic patterns also reflected the spirit of the era. These styles are being revived today in Collectif London's vintage dress collections. Spanning a wide range of colours from pastels to neons, the 1960s remain an inspiring era for those seeking vintage outfits.

The Free Spirit of the 1970s Vintage Inspired Dresses for Women

The '70s symbolise a time when bohemian and disco cultures coexisted, with flared trousers, floral patterns, and colourful dresses dominating the fashion scene. While women preferred a bohemian style during the day, at night they could be seen expressing their free spirits in glittering dresses. Today, this diversity is being revived by Collectif London's retro glam dress collection.

Vintage Dress Prices

Vintage dress prices may vary depending on the fabric type, craftsmanship, and details used. Different materials, like cotton, viscose, satin, and silk, may be used in production, which is one of the main reasons why the price of each product varies.

Collectif London, a vintage dress shop, offers collections that include a wide range of products, from daily wear dresses to special occasion models. When shopping for retro dresses, Collectif London helps customers make informed choices by providing clear categories, detailed fabric information, and size measurements for each product.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vintage Inspired Dresses

What is a Vintage Inspired Dress?

Vintage inspired dresses, also known as retro dress style, are modern designs that are inspired by the styles, patterns, and textures of previous decades. Unlike original vintage pieces, they are not second-hand, but are made from modern fabrics using up-to-date production technologies to fit today's body measurements.

Where Can I Buy Vintage Inspired Dresses?

You can buy vintage inspired dresses directly from Collectif London. Collectif London’s designs take inspiration from different decades, ranging from the 1940s to the 1970s.

How to Style a Vintage Looking Dress?

Vintage inspired dresses can be styled in various ways, depending on the desired look. For example, a flared skirt model complemented with a thin belt and elegant accessories creates a classic look, while a red or black retro dress with high heels and minimal jewellery makes a chic evening outfit.

Are Vintage Inspired Dresses in Style?

Today, thanks to designs that combine different styles and allow for freedom of expression, vintage inspired dresses are still very popular.

How Much are Vintage Inspired Clothes

The prices of vintage inspired dresses may vary depending on fabric quality, model details, and craftsmanship. Collectif London offers modern, high-quality vintage-inspired dresses at competitive prices, suitable for a variety of body types. The collection combines the aesthetics of the past with today's fashion trends, allowing you to find your perfect vintage-inspired dress. Explore vintage inspired dresses with Collectif London and discover your perfect style.

UK Size	US Size	EU Size
3	5	36
4	6	37
5	7	38
6	8	39
7	9	40
8	10	41
9	11	42

Size	Waist ( cm )	Waist ( Inches )
28	71cm	28in
30	76cm	30in
32	81cm	32in
34	86cm	34in
36	91.5cm	36in
38	96.5cm	38in
40	101.5cm	40in
42	106.5cm	42in

Gina Denim Pinafore Flared Dress