How to Wear Vintage-Inspired Fashion Without Feeling Like You’re in Costume

We adore vintage glamour.

But unless you’re heading to a themed event, you probably don’t want to feel as though you’ve accidentally wandered onto a film set every time you leave the house.

The secret?

Mix a little nostalgia with a lot of you.

Let One Piece Do the Talking

Start with one vintage-inspired statement piece.

Perhaps it’s a floral swing dress, a fitted wiggle dress or a fabulous tartan number like our Judith Tartan Swing Dress.

Then keep the rest simple.

Modern shoes, understated jewellery and your everyday handbag can make even a strongly vintage-inspired silhouette feel effortless.

Pair Retro Dresses With Modern Shoes

Changing your shoes can completely transform a dress.

Heels add classic glamour.

Ballet flats keep things sweet and simple.

Boots give florals a little attitude.

Trainers can take a swing dress from afternoon tea to an easy weekend outfit.

The result is vintage-inspired rather than vintage reproduction and perfect for modern life.

Add a Cardigan

A cardigan is one of the easiest bridges between vintage and contemporary style.

Pair a classic knit with one of our swing dresses for an instantly polished look, or wear it with jeans and a simple top when you only want a hint of retro charm.

It’s also a very useful addition to the wardrobe when British weather inevitably changes its mind.

Choose Wearable Vintage Details

You don’t need every vintage detail at once.

A sweetheart neckline can be enough.

Or a fitted waist.

Or a full skirt.

Or perhaps a gorgeous floral print.

The Inez Floral Swing Dress, for example, combines a romantic sweetheart neckline and rich floral print with practical ¾-length sleeves and concealed pockets.

Vintage charm? Absolutely.

Ready for modern life? Even better.

Wear the Clothes, Don’t Let Them Wear You

Ultimately, vintage-inspired fashion should feel like an extension of your personality.

Wear the dramatic print if you love it.

Add the petticoat if you’re feeling fabulous.

Keep everything else simple if that’s more your style.

At Hearts & Roses London, we believe the past is there to inspire your wardrobe, not dictate it.

So borrow your favourite details from decades gone by and make them completely your own.