13 Vintage Outfit Ideas and the Key Pieces You Need to Update the Look
They're as good now as they were then.
Not only does reflecting on the best vintage outfits from the past reiterate how trends have a boomerang effect, but it reinforces the idea that when it comes to shopping, it's best to invest in key classic pieces. Over the years, both on the runway and on the street, some of the most memorable moments in fashion have been anchored with styles that are just as relevant today as they were then.
The 1970s gave birth to hero pieces like leather blazers and boot-cut trousers. When you think of the '80s, it's likely that biker shorts, shoulder pads, and Madonna's signature leather moto jacket spring to mind. The same can be said about many of the earlier decades as well—in fact, the popularity of lady bags can be traced to the '40s and '50s.
Rather than sift through photo galleries of your favorite celebrities and runway fixtures over the years, just ahead, we've cherry-picked a list of well-curated pieces for inspiration—plus, a slew of vintage pieces available for purchase to help you complete the look in a way that feels fresh for fall 2020.
Bianca Jagger, 1977
Take styling cues from Bianca Jagger and try swapping out your classic blazer with a structured velvet version layered over a collared blouse. Complete the look with elevated accessories and well-tailored trousers.
Chanel's double-breasted velvet jacket is a dead ringer for the style Jagger wore in the '70s.
Twiggy, 1968
A leather trench is a must-have in any well-dressed woman's fall wardrobe. Styles that go well below the knees, like Twiggy's, double as a dress when worn with tights.
Burberry's vintage trench is tailored for a longline fit that's as chic as it is functional.
Amii Stewart, 1979
American disco singer Amii Stewart is revered for her opulent outfits, and her butterfly top shown here is as relevant today as it was in the late '70s. Update the look with sharp-toe boots and straight-cut jeans.
Notorious Fly's skin-bearing butterfly top is an updated take on styles from the '70s. For a more modest approach, layer it over a fitted turtleneck top
Madonna, 1985
Whether it's pared back with denim or dressed up with a slipdress, Madonna's signature leather jacket from the '80s is key for the cool-weather months.
Select a vintage style with burnished hardware and a slim cut to capture an effortlessly chic feel.
Julia Roberts, 1989
Try upgrading your biker shorts with an oversized blazer and a pair of vintage penny loafers. Mimic Julia Roberts's laid-back look by opting for a crew-neck top underneath.
These vintage Kelly loafers by Hermès are detailed with the same gold key-lock motif from the brand's signature tote bag.
Celine Dion, 1996
One of the easiest ways to wear a maxi skirt in 2020 is pairing it with a fitted T-shirt to manage the proportions. For a more casual approach, dress the look down with trainers.
A versatile addition to any wardrobe, Giorgio Armani's maxi skirt has the potential to be worn for a multitude of occasions.
Audrey Hepburn, 1953
A style icon for many, Audrey Hepburn and her classic way of dressing is worth re-creating for the new season. The key investment piece? A ladylike bag with a structured silhouette and double top handles.
Hermès's top-handle tote from the '90s epitomizes Hepburn's classic look—regardless of the outfit.
Christy Turlington, 1994
With instantly recognizable motifs and house logos on the rise, the key to embracing the somewhat splashy trend is keeping the outfit accompaniments minimal. Try mirroring Christy Turlington's look with a printed mini and denier tights.
Tone down Burberry's classic print with a plain jumper and over-the-knee boots to copy the look.
Chanel Fall/Winter Runway, 1985
Leather blazers are having a major moment right now, and very few do tailored separates quite like Chanel. If you aren't ready to invest in a structured jacket suit, opt for the jacket only, which will work overtime in your closet—every season.
The suede patches on Chanel's single-breasted jacket give it a multidimensional appeal that's versatile and chic.
Farrah Fawcett, 1977
Farrah Fawcett's collared top and plush shirt coat is proof that the key to a put-together look is layering. Finish the look with a pair of chrome aviators to embody her vintage vibe.
For those who aren't fans of aviator-style lenses, go for a vintage pair of square-frame sunglasses as an alternative.
Shelby Ying Hyde is a Brooklyn-based shopping and fashion contributor BAZAAR.com, with bylines on The Zoe Report, Teen Vogue, Essence, Nylon, Elite Daily and more. Prior to entering the editorial space, she worked at luxury e-commerce giants Net-a-Porter and Moda Operandi on the product editorial team, where she gained an extensive understanding of the luxury market as it pertains to shopping and engaging customers in a digital space. Follow @theshelbyying on Instagram for shopping advice, sale updates, and tips for building a well-rounded wardrobe.
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