by Ida Hsiang
Jan 31, 2011 5:32 AM PST
Vintage pieces and an overall vintage look has been all the rage these last few seasons. And while we love the romantically nonchalant look, what exactly makes a piece vintage and not just 'used'?
Wearing a vintage or vintage inspired look is all about showing your individual style, but here are a few quick tips and must-have pieces to get the vintage look just right! Then click the slideshow to see some of our fave vintage and vintage-inspired pieces!
Get The Era Right - Think of style details from the 1920's to 1970's. That neon spandex with the exaggerated shoulders? Very 80's, but not so vintage. Look for muted tones, knee-grazing lengths and soft cotton fabrics. Lace detailing and filigree designs are also the epitome of vintage style.
The Dress/ Skirt - Styles can vary greatly, but a few key details give this piece a decidedly vintage vibe. Look for lace or lace detailing, soft floral patterns and a cotton fabric. Covered buttons and a knee length hem or high-waist cut add to the vintage appeal. Pair with a worn leather belt or knit knee-highs!
The Vintage Shoe - Whether it's a heel or a flat, a good vintage shoe is usually make of quality leather. A neutral and versatile color like brown, black or cream are safe bets, while red and deep violets are also a good way to show vintage style. An oxford or mary-jane design, laces and grommet details add to the vintage look. For heels, look for something no more than 3 inches high and with a chunkier heel!
Keeping Warm - Good vintage outerwear can range anything from a classic wool coat to a structured blazer style. Look for timeless cuts and silhouettes that will still be in style for years to come. A knee length trench is extremely luxe, while a hem height that hits at the hips is perfect for any style! Opt for black, cream or neutral tones, or if you're looking to pack a punch, try a saturated jewel tone!
Vintage Add-Ons - Worn leather satchels and hobos make the perfect vintage bag! Knee socks, braided belts, leather driving gloves and panama hats also make great style points. And a silk scarf is every vintage loving gals' best friend! Use it as a head wrap, a hair ribbon, or tie it loosely around your neck for instant vintage cred!
Accessorize It - Vintage and vintage inspired jewelry is distinct. Look for tarnished brass, ornate details, creamy stones like opal, jade and ivory-like pieces, as well as fun animal shapes like cats, owls and other birds. Victorian style cameo brooches and strings of pearls are always a great vintage choice!
Label Love: Quail Does Vintage For The Modern Girl
by Alex Gambardella
May 3, 2010 10:42 AM PDT
Quail founder and designer Michelle Nguyen Williams finds inspiration for her eclectic line just about everywhere -- her fashionable BFFs, vintage finds from thrift stores, busy LA living -- and is able to find beauty in just about all aspects of life. This results in a line designed for the modern girl who is one part fabulously glamorous, one part down-to-earth casual, 2 parts colorful and quirky, and just a tad nostalgic. She loves creating pieces that are completely wearable yet still fun and exciting, and designs that are retro-chic and feminine but still unexpectedly funky and fresh. While she surprisingly hasn't had any formal training, she wows with impeccably constructed pieces that reflect her hard work ethic and lifetime of experience of sewing and fashioning her own garments. Take a look at the slideshow for a peek at her latest collection!
