RETRO FASHION STYLE

Discover the timeless charm!

Retro derives from the Latin prefix meaning “backwards or in past times”. Generally, we use the term to categorize any styles (art, deco, fashion etc.) that have been created in the past and refer to the new things that display characteristics of the past. (This article contains sponsored links)

London designers first used the Retro Fashion style term to refer to a style that is consciously derivative or imitative of trends, modes, fashions, materials, techniques, or attitudes of the recent past. It generally implies that 20-40 years earlier, for example, clothing from the 1980s to 2000s could be retro. 

Retro fashion style invites you to explore modern interpretations of past trends, vibrant colors, bold patterns, and unique silhouettes that capture the essence of bygone eras while adding a contemporary twist. For instance, pairing a retro dress with accessories like knee high colored compression socks can provide both a nostalgic look and modern comfort.

Difference between "Retro" and "Vintage": Typically, the term Retro is given to items which are at least 20 years old (but not yet older than 40 years), meaning those were made between 1980 and 2000. Vintage generally represents style from 1920 to the 1980s. If it’s more than 100 years old, we call it "antique".

Vintage clothing is rated high in terms of style, pattern, material, and timelessness. On the other hand, retro-style clothing is likely to have a more polished and updated look. It means that those clothes are designed in the old style, but contemporary or new materials may be used. The concept of retro can be better defined as imitated and reproduced designs.

Please check the Vintage Fashion Style and Bohemian Fashion Style pages for more detail. 

Main Components:

1980 - 2000. A decade of bold style, extravagant designs, colours, and silhouettes and heaping amounts of permed hair and anything with shoulder pads.

Oversized Blazers & Shoulder Pads: Oversized blazers with bold colors and dramatic shoulder pads were a defining look of retro fashion. Often belted at the waist, these blazers created a structured yet exaggerated silhouette that exuded confidence and power.

Power Suits: Retro power suits featured broad, padded shoulders and voluminous sleeves for a commanding presence. They were typically paired with straight-cut trousers or pleated skirts worn over tights or pantyhose.

Flared and Bell Bottom Pants & Jeans: Flared and bell-bottom pants added drama and movement, often styled with floral shirts or fitted tops. High-waisted hip-huggers and leather flares were staples for a groovy, rebellious edge.

Neon Colours: Neon hues in green, pink, orange, and yellow dominated retro wardrobes, making bold, unapologetic statements. Colour-blocking with neon was especially popular in tops, jackets, and leggings.

Go Disco / Sequins: Disco fashion brought glamour and excess to the forefront with sequins, glittery fabrics, and sultry silhouettes. Form-fitting pieces like tube tops, wrap skirts, and jumpsuits in shiny fabrics were common, often layered under faux fur coats or paired with high heels.

Acid Washed Denim: Acid-washed denim became a major trend with high-waisted mom jeans, denim jackets, and mini skirts in pale, bleached tones. These pieces were often paired with bold graphic tees or oversized sweaters for an effortless retro feel.

High-Waisted Jeans & Pants: Commonly known today as "mom jeans," high-waisted jeans were beloved for their cinched waist and flattering shape. They were typically styled with tucked-in shirts, crop tops, or sweaters.

Puffed Sleeves: Puffed sleeves were a bold, feminine detail featured on dresses, blouses, and jackets. These exaggerated shoulders gave a soft romantic edge to otherwise structured garments.

Overalls / Dungarees / Jumpsuits / Pinafores: Casual and playful, cotton overalls and denim pinafores became wardrobe essentials. These one-piece garments were comfortable, versatile, and often layered with t-shirts or turtlenecks.

Double Denim: Wearing denim on denim—such as matching a jean jacket with high-rise jeans—was a key 80s trend. This coordinated look, sometimes referred to as the “Canadian tuxedo,” was edgy and youthful.

Mini Skirts and Rara Skirts: Mini skirts were styled with fitted tops, knee-high socks, or boots to create youthful, leg-focused looks. The ra-ra skirt, a tiered, flouncy design, added movement and cheerleader-inspired energy.

Stirrups: Stirrup pants featured a built-in strap that secured under the foot, keeping the pants taut and smooth. Often worn with oversized sweaters or tunics, they were both functional and stylish.

Harem Pants: Harem pants were baggy with an ultra-low drop crotch and tapered ankles, often made from soft, flowing fabric. Popularized by pop culture icons, they added comfort and swagger to retro fashion.

Mock and Turtlenecks: Mock necks, turtlenecks, and crew neck tops were winter staples that layered well under blazers and jumpers. They provided a sleek, modest neckline in both fitted and relaxed styles.

Frills & Ruffles: Frills and ruffles added a touch of femininity and vintage charm to tops and dresses. These details created volume and texture, often seen on sleeves, collars, or hemlines.

Polka Dots: Polka dots were a playful yet timeless pattern, often seen on dresses, skirts, and blouses. Inspired by 1950s fashion, they added retro flair to both day and evening wear.

Animal Prints: Leopard, zebra, and snakeskin prints exploded in popularity during the 80s, worn by both men and women. These bold patterns added drama and a sense of wild rebellion to any outfit.

Groovy Prints: Groovy prints featured psychedelic florals and abstract, artsy patterns. Bright and eye-catching, they defined the carefree spirit of retro style.

Slogan T-Shirts: Statement tees with political, rebellious, or humorous slogans became a way to wear your voice. Emerging after the social movements of the 70s, they were both expressive and fashionable.

Body Suits and Leotards: Bodysuits and leotards in vibrant hues were often inspired by dancewear and the aerobics craze. They hugged the body and were frequently styled with leggings or high-rise shorts.

Sweater Vests: Sweater vests were worn fitted over flowy skirts, trousers, or collared shirts for a layered retro look. They added warmth and a touch of preppy flair to casual outfits.

Sheepskin Coats: Also known as shearling coats, these outerwear pieces had a buttery suede exterior and a plush fleece lining. They offered cozy elegance and were especially popular in colder months.

Leather Jackets: Retro leather jackets had padded shoulders, cropped waists, and sometimes metallic finishes. Often worn with rolled-up sleeves, they embodied rockstar cool.

Leg Warmers: Leg warmers were a signature of 80s dancewear, worn over leggings or with mini skirts and oversized sweaters. They added texture, warmth, and a fun finishing touch to active or casual looks.

Accessories: Retro accessories were colorful and bold—think jelly bangles, beaded necklaces, lace gloves, and thick belts. Headbands, fingerless gloves, and fanny packs also made strong visual statements.

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