One reason you should consider dressing in vintage clothing is that it never goes out of style. It is not uncommon to see vintage style pieces in modern runways. However, before you walk into the store and buy that retro dress you have been eyeing for a while, there is something you should know. If you have ever seen a vintage dress or seen someone in one, you know they are usually several sizes smaller than the dresses we have in stores today. What this means is that you should not go looking at the size tags. This is not to mean that you cannot find vintage clothing that fits. However, you need to know your body type. Knowing what works or does not work for your body will help you choose the right vintage clothing.
There are four main body types:
Hourglass
Pear
Apple
Boyish figure
Women with an hour glass body type usually have well defined waists. They are neither top nor bottom heavy. Think Marilyn Monroe. There are several vintage pieces that would look good on an hour glass figure. The first are the wrap dresses from the 1970s. These will hug your body in all the right places making you dazzle. Wiggle dresses from the 50s and 60s will also long fabulous on you. Do not forget to include belts to emphasize the waist.
Pear shapes have wider hips and smaller busts. As a pear shape, you should look for vintage clothing that draws attention to your bust and not your hips. In this regard, A-line skirts from the 1960s and flared pants from the 70s will be ideal.
For the apple shape, vintage clothing from the 30s, 60s and 70s will work wonders for your body. This is because they will not emphasize your problems area – your midsection. Apple shapes should not be afraid of accessorizing especially with beaded earrings from the 1920s. These will direct attention to your face instead of your mid section.
Vintage clothing that looks good on a boyish figure includes 70s maxi dresses, 60s mod style skirts and dresses as well as bold prints from the 70s.
If you are shopping for vintage clothes for the first time, you should not be afraid to try out different styles. This is the only way you know which styles/eras work for you and which ones do not. Whatever you choose, make sure you wear it with confidence and a smile.
You should consider getting yourself vintage clothing because they are timeless pieces. Make sure you try on different styles to find out which one suits you.
