Retro style is associated with a bygone era. It is usually characterized by items made before or during the 90s. Retro outfits are pieces that strongly reflect the styles and trends of that era. When adopting a retro style, there are certain precautions to take to avoid making any faux pas.
It is especially important to know which brands to go for, what types of clothes to wear, and how to get them. Here is everything you need to know to dress well with a retro style  !
Which brands to choose for dressing in a retro style?
In the quest for the desired retro style, it is important to choose the right era with the brands that made it famous. It is unthinkable to talk about retro without mentioning brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Balenciaga, Dior, Christian Louboutin, Rolex, Prada, Adidas, Nike, Kenzo or Fendi.
These brands are a good place to start when looking for items (shoes, bags, clothes, etc.) to create your retro style. They have had a strong impact on the fashion world since their creation before the 90s.
Some of these giants offer luxury items (Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dior, etc.) while others like Adidas or Nike offer more budget-friendly items, you can find out the prices of retro sneakers here. Retro style can be made up of new clothes from dormant stock or second-hand outfits.
Wear loose cuts
The retro style requires wearing comfortable outfits that can be worn daily. In this regard, loose-fitting retro outfits are highly recommended. These can be loose pants characteristic of 90s fashion or loose shirts.
In addition to reflecting a retro influence, loose fits are comfortable and easy to wear. These everyday retro outfits exist for men and women with new gender-neutral variations.
Baggy jeans and straight-leg jeans are good examples of this. Paired with plus-size plaid shirts, you get a popular retro style.
Taking inspiration from 90s fashion
You don’t necessarily need ’80s bell bottoms or shoulder pads to get the perfect retro vibe. The ’90s already had so much to offer in terms of clothing style. Here’s a list of how to get a retro outfit with a ’90s twist:
- Denim is a 90s staple in jeans, jackets, skirts, dresses, or overalls;
- The crop top, this short top that reveals the navel can be paired with a skirt or high-waisted pants;
- Track pants are jogging pants offering a pure 90s vintage style;
- Dr Martens boots, colorful Converse, Nike Air Max 90, etc.
Plaid shirts and accessories like street chains and choker necklaces are valid additions to the elements that can create an excellent retro style. Most of these outfits are still proudly integrated into the latest trends.
Hunting for retro clothes in thrift stores
If thrift stores are considered “low cost”, they offer the opportunity to find vintage gems. It is possible to rummage online and in physical thrift stores. The most important thing is to have a clear objective of the retro style you are looking for (retro 80s, 90s, etc.). Patience is also a good quality in this process.
It’s easy to get discouraged in the thrift store bazaar with clothes piled up and wrinkled. That’s why you have to be patient and plan with the clothes you choose. Think about how to accessorize your new find. Find the right style to integrate it. Full vintage and semi-vintage are options.
Finally, there is no need to follow strict rules to adopt a retro style. Some retro outfits can be combined with current trends for a semi-vintage style. The most important thing is to accept yourself and feel comfortable in your clothes.
