research tip! i’ve found that it can be hard to find everyday women as references, especially teenagers pre-60s. What i do (as a Youth in the Real World) is go to a digital archive (local or state archives tend to be easier to navigate) and search something like “working women” or “students” or whatever, then narrow my search to only pictures and whatever era I’m looking for. I find it’s the easiest way to find images of actual people from a specific timeframe instead of just starlets, stylized pinups, models, and modern costumes.
ALSO! if you’re looking for decent length a-line/circle/generally flared skirts, uniqlo makes awesome ones! i own like 5 skirts total and 4 of them are uniqlo. they mostly come in earthy neutrals - think olive green, navy blue, burnt orange, maybe a khaki or an off white - which is 100% my vibe, and they’re crazy affordable for the quality. they’re often lined, they hold up in the wash, and full price is like $30 max (and you can get them on sale for like 10 bucks!). literally perfect. they don’t have a ton of irl stores, which is sad, but their online store has almost all the stuff.
I wish I had of actually started wearing vintage when I first became intereated in it. Because I would be literally 6 years into it by now. Instead of just starting out. I made the decision yesterday, I thought; stuff it, this is what I want.
The most frequent questions I get in public when I dress vintage inspired: * Are you an actress? *Are you going somewhere special?/Did you come from a special event? *Can I take a picture of you? *Why are you dressed like that? (Usually in a curious way, not rude) What's cool is that most people seem to like it a lot. Ever since I started this wholesome obsession with vintage/pin up look, it really changed my life and it brings me so much joy. Vintage girlie forever!
as a young aspiring vintage wearer, I found this video incredibly helpful. Not solely on the content itself but the way you present it made me feel better. You are very inclusive, never pick one side and always nuance what you say. For example you often add "if that's what you're into" which I love because not everyone wants to wear vintage completely, some may just want to add a few details here and there to their style. So thank you!
Thank you so much! I really do try and be as inclusive as I can, especially because vintage style as a general term is so broad and can encompass everything from rockabilly, to 1980's vibes, to strict 1930's art deco style or anything in between! One of my biggest pet peeves is when people are elitist about vintage style, so I try and keep far away from such nonsense :)
Good for you for bringing up not HAVING to buy Besame,etc. Foam curlers and a lipstick from Walgreens!! Very good point! New Subscriber;) Blessings Mrs.O
Such great tips! I love late 1950 early 1960 (think “call the midwife”) and have been having to do double duty transition since I’ve lost 50 lbs and started dressing vintage. My biggest difficulty is getting skits/dresses to be long enough!
Thank you Evelyn! I love longer hemlines even on my 1940s looks, so I feel you on hemlines! That's why making things is great because then I can make them as long as I'd like, but I know not everyone sews :(
I'm 12 and I really wanna dress vintage hehe. My mom wouldn't let me because the dresses I own (Wichita almost all look vintage) are for formal occasions only :// But, I can always start with subtle hairstyles ;)
I didn't start wearing vintage things until high school myself , it can be hard to find daywear item sometimes! A good option for starting to wear retro style for daytime/school are simple skirts and button front shirts/blouses as they can be combined in new ways to make many outfits.
I really love '40s and '50s, but I can't just let go the decades... I mean there was so beautiful '20s and '30s homewear, such great make-up and dresses from the 60s, etc... Can we blend in different decades? And how that would be safely done?
I love all of the decades before 1960 really, so I have 1920s days and the next day I'll wear something totally 50's. I usually put together outfits focusing on one general era for the whole look, but there is no rule saying styling must be done that way! Many eras use parts of an older era's style, for example there was a big Edwardian throwback in the 70's and 80's with long white cotton dresses but 70's hair and make-up. One way to get inspiration for these kinds of styling choices is to look at 20th century period films from a later era, for example The Great Gatsby film from 1974 has 1920's fashion but tailored through a 1970's lens and style, or the 1967 film Thoroughly Modern Millie which is set in the 1920s as well, but the costumes feel very influenced by the 60's. You can feel free to blend any decade and may just discover some really amazing combinations!
@@TheClosetHistorian I was born in 1960, and GunnieSax (sp?) Was huge! My wedding dress Incorporated that look. My cousin designed it from a few patterns
TheClosetHistorian Woah that's some awesome advice!! I never thought about it, but I've absorbed a lot of cowboy movies and tv growing up (thanks dad) and you can really see the evolution of the decades through each individual take on that late 1800's style. I'm going to keep an eye out for old historical movies now!!!
Mallory Barkley Same but I'm 13, and I have a lot of good clothes to wear but my mom wants me to wait until school, even though I can take out any stains I have lol.
your comment about hair and makeup made me think of old Western shows on TV like Bonanza. the women all had hair of the 1950's with costumes so it never looked accurate 😉
I've only just found you on the "tube". This is the first vid I've watched and if your others are as good, then I have a lot to look forward to 😊. Really like your take on vintage, I myself have no preference on a decade I just love vintage in general, it's such a fantastic way to express yourself and look totally glamorous at the same time. I'm off to watch another of your vids now xx
My favorite era is the 20s. Short hair, loose clothing, pants, less makeup than today. I started sewing my 20s inspiration back to college clothes. Hopefully they'll be done in time
I would think a leather (or faux leather) or canvas shoulder bag/satchel would be perfect really, as if you search "1920's school bag" that seems to have been the most common style. If you want to invest in one that will serve for years and work well as a laptop bag or small carry on for travel perhaps check out the Cambridge Satchel co. us.cambridgesatchel.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIpui3xf3T3AIVBbXACh2BzwNtEAAYASAAEgLchvD_BwE or check out modcloth or other retailers for similar styles!
I really like the vintage style since my mom born in the 30’s and she looked amazing. Plus she made all of her clothing. I too know how to sew and enjoy making my designed fashionable clothes. Your vintage look is so beautiful and refreshing to see. Love watching your videos.
I discovered that my make up is pretty on target already :) I have to replace all my clothes anyway, so why not go vintage inspired so I feel better in them. I plan to sew most of it
Is it weird to suddenly want to start wearing vintage style when in your 50's lol For the past year or so I have felt so drawn to the 40's fashion. I can't help feel I'm just too old to change my style. Any thoughts?
I don't think it's weird at all! You can change your style any time you like, you should do what makes you happy and playing with style is for everyone of any age certainly
Great video thanks. At 5'11" tall with broad shoulders genuine vintage is pretty much limited to accessories for me as very few women in the 30's and 40's were my height & size so it's great to hear your inclusive message.
Thank you! I truly do think vintage fashion is for everyone! I love accessories, they are so loyal-- they never let you down no matter how your size may change or anything ;)
I feel your pain!! I'm 6' 2" myself. One thing that I find super nice are pairing blouses and skirts. Most skirts from the post-war era were a good bit below the knee, so even if a skirt is a bit short it still usually hits beneath the knee. Also, you can adjust where you wear them on your waist to add length or shorten your torso! And if you're tucking in a blouse, it only has to be as long as your waist, instead of all the way to your hips. I have several vintage blouses that only go about halfway down my torso, but they tuck nicely into my skirts (and less fabric means cooler for the hot summer!!). Hope this helps!
@@TheClosetHistorian Thank you for bringing up sizes being an issue. I am totally in love with Victorian clothing but... opposite of what Fiona said, I'm a rather small woman, so I have a choice of the children's aisle or getting things custom made and so I've had to do things like pair vintage-esque tops with skirts I have in my closet. So far *knock on wood* , thanks to leaning a bit more steampunk, no one's dinged me for "being inauthentic". ;) As I've heard said, you can only work with what you have.
How do you accommodate for multiple eras in your style😭 I adore the 90s and 80s rock style but also the 50s and 60s classic styles.. I'm so conflicted 😭
I like a lot of different eras too, and some days I go quite authentic, a head to toe 1940's look say, or sometimes I mix eras, a 1940's suit but with an 80's patent clutch and more 80's bold new wave makeup, then the next day I'll wear something 1920's in style, it's all just play, there are no rules!
Love this. Could Someone pleaseeeee tell me how to Keep red lipstick on your lips. I blot, fill, outline etc etc, 10 minutes later I’ve a ring around my lips and nothing in the middle.
Thank you Nancy! Have you tried liquid lipsticks? I find liquid lipsticks have true staining and staying power compared to cream formulas (my favorites are from the brand Colour Pop).
I'll have to try that. My eyes water so much that I can't keep eye makeup on, so lipstick is especially important. When it wears off, I'm pretty colorless.
I notice as im watching you on different clips that your hair colour varies ..i love really dark hair and im thinking of doing my hair dark again which dose suit me .you look lovely with all the colours ..which do you like best as a vintage coloured hair ?
Thank you Henrietta! My hair is still quite damaged from when I had it bright purple last winter so it has a hard time holding onto color right now. I have been using a dark brown color conditioner (clove conditioner from the brand Aveda) to try and keep my hair color even, but it does indeed change and fade after every shampoo! So you're totally right, it changes from video to video and day to day for sure! I think any hair color can work with vintage style, though I find natural colors the easiest to style with colorful clothes myself.
Bravo doll!!! Couldn't agree more with what you say! I hate the snobbery of some people in regards to wearing 'true vintage!'...Just no need for it! Sitting here nodding in agreement throughout this fab video. XOX
I recently got super into Vintage Style and Historical Fashion, and immediately started altering my wardrobe to include more 50's and 40's inspired pieces. But I've come to the realization that what I really love is expressing an aesthetic I appreciate through fashion. So now I'm 50's picnic one day, Boho-chic beach the next, and 2000's high schooler the day after lol. I really enjoy vintage style but for me, it's more about choosing pieces which are versatile throughout my wardrobe for different aesthetics. I like to sew what I can, and thrift as often as possible, as well as (sinfully) scooping up basics from fast fashion clearance 🤷🏻♀️. Anyway I can create the aesthetic I want that day for the least waste/money is valid in my opinion (as long as I'm not claiming to be a perfect example of whatever decade I'm dressing)!!
I am just getting into wearing vintage, and luckily am a sewer. I have got my hands on vintage patterns and inspired patterns as well. Also, luckily there is a great vintage shop down the street from myhouse wear they have great deals on accessories, like scarfs. My goals is to have a vintage wardrobe in the next 4 years. :)
@@hummingbird4335 As a matter of fact I have! 😄 I make my own clothes from vintage patterns and have recently taken up pattern drafting (thanks Bianca). Everything I don't/can't make is vintage/thirfted!
@@TheClosetHistorian If you mean the lipstick I wouldn't worry about it. I think it was over drawn well and looks really classic especially paired with the eyebrows you had at the time. And I like the foundation. I marathon watched a lot of your videos yesterday because I'm sick and one thing I like to do when I'm too sick to knit or even read much is to watch movies and fashion and or make up videos on youtube. My head is currently shaved but I have been drawn to vintage again a lot lately. I'm not sure if I will keep it shaved and find wigs to style vintage or however I want or if I'll grow out my hair again. After having my head shaved over the years each time I've tried to grow it out I have just shaved it again. But wigs would be sooo impossible in the summer! So, I'm on the vintage bench so to speak lol
I have yet to find any youtubers on men's vintage style. I would like to know if your aware of any male vintage style youtubers? Other platforms I don't have issue. Instagram has no shortage, Twitter, ect.
The only vintage gentleman I can think of here on RUclips would be Matthew of the joint channel My Vintage Love, as they usually cover both his style/shopping as well as his lovely wife Michelle's. ruclips.net/channel/UCJoGZLr1XHWetqwnUVRcapQ Otherwise I don't know of any specific men's vintage style channels unfortunately. The vintage community here on RUclips is still so small, so hopefully more men will join in soon!
Do you have any tips for plus size people and vintage? I love the 1920’s to 1940’s style and obviously not many people back them were my size. Should I try my best to work around my body shape or forget the vintage dream?
Thank you for sharing ❤ I’d have a better response but I just spent 8 hrs sourcing and constructing more garden beds…is tired. But not bed yet, so I’m happily watching your videos.
As for me, I don't think I have to "choose" one period, I prefer to take what I find esthetical or what make me feel like a character in a lot of them, even if I have some preferences. I usually hear that's it's better to focuse on one era in particular (and with reasons), but I don't think it's appliable to everyone.
Loved this video. Your delivery is funny and charming, and I like how much you take the accessibility of vintage style into consideration with these steps :)
Great video, Bianca. Would love to see your closet. I'm consistently impressed by how many outfits you have, and how you mix and match clothing and accessories, so it would be interesting to see how you store it all.
I love this! I just started doing vintage style, particularly more vintage inspired repro. Honestly, I am very shapely, very athletic, and sometimes I can't find true vintage to fit my curves. I like stuff with a little lycra or stretch give to it (particularly skirts and pants). Repro makes it possible. I also love little finds of truly vintage stuff, but honestly it's no big deal to me. 40s and 50s are my jam. I love this video because it puts me at ease that I'm doing the right thing!
I'm gradually transitioning to wearing vintage, but I was just wondering if you had any advice for wearing vintage with a strict dress code. My sixth form says that we must wear business wear - black blazer, black skirt or trousers etc and cannot 'push limits of fashion'. I don't really want to buy a whole new wardrobe as blazers can be quite expensive. Any tips?
The good thing is that blazers and skirts are already way more vintage looking than more mainstream modern fashion is! I would say the quickest way to look more vintage within these kinds of stricter limitations is just by changing the way you do your hair or make-up (if you are allowed to wear make-up that is). Also I would recommend looking at photos of 1940s/50s school girls outfits on pinterest or somewhere similar, as many wore skirts and blazers for school as well or had similar kinds of restrictions. The biggest trend among both school girls and university students at that time were saddle shoes and white socks, so if you are allowed to choose your shoes that could be a more vintage looking option. A lot of modern school uniforms are based on vintage traditional styles, and longer skirts (knee length to a bit past knee length) and collared shirts are good vintage basics in any vintage inspired school wardrobe, whether one's school requires them or not. I'm not sure if you are allowed to accessorize much, but brooches and other vintage style jewelry could help your outfits lean more vintage in style as well. My next video is actually about wearing vintage style in a school environment, so look for that coming soon!
Sorry for commenting on past videos like a stalker but I am currently binge watching your videos! I started getting into vintage style about 2 months ago seriously after always being too scared to take the plunge. My biggest road block is my size. I'm a big girl and at the top end of the size scale. I find 50s style repro a lot more accessible but am struggling with seperates and 40s style. True vintage is impossible really. Do you have any tips for us larger ladies who feel a bit excluded from the vintage arena?
Another great video. Do you draft all of your own patterns? If not, which pattern companies make the best modern vintage-inspired patterns? I have a few true vintage patterns, but they are extremely delicate, often pricey, and difficult to find in the right size since they didn't come in multiple sizes in one sheet like modern patterns.
Thank you Sarah! I do indeed draft all of my own patterns, usually just slightly modifying a basic bodice and skirt pattern I made ages ago based on my measurements into different designs. I sadly have a hard time recommending commercially available patterns because I just haven't tried any! I'll try and talk about pattern drafting more soon, because I really do think it is easier than it may at first seem, and is such a worthwhile skill to develop :)
Thank you! Try the brand What Katie Did, or the Bali flower bra. There are others out there too, but I these two are probably the most common brands amongst the vintage gals I know!
Random question...I just bought a coatdress. Do I wear it over a dress? That's what I was thinking but all the reviews were from women who just wore it as a regular dress.
I think they are supposed to be worn as dresses that look like coats, as opposed to over stuff like a coat is, but you can wear it however you like of course! I say layer away if you like the look and feel of it.
Yes! Hair and makeup is such an important element of vintage style, and one that often seems to get over-looked. It takes a bit of work, practice, and research to get it right, but it really can make the difference between a style looking "vintage" or "modern".
Hi! I've just recently found your channel and the clothes you make are just amazing! Do you have any advice for someone like me who has never done any sewing? What's the first step in learning to make your own clothes? I can see fro some of your other videos that you have a dress makers dummy. Do you find that this is an essential piece of equipment? The dresses in your summer look book video are so lovely I couldn't believe it when I learned you had made many of them yourself!
Thank you! Learning to sew can seem like a daunting task at first, but the basic skills aren't too hard to begin picking up. Luckily sewing machines aren't too expensive these days, and if you can find an old one at a thrift shop they can usually be fixed up and you don't need a fancy new machine to do most sewing. Though I have an old adjustable dress form, I don't use it for draping often (I prefer flat pattern drafting) at all and I think it is a very optional tool. I would say dress forms are most unessential actually! Usually Joanns or local fabric shops offer sewing lessons or can connect you with a seamstress who offers lessons, and I did take a few lessons when I was 12/13 and just starting out. Of course it is also something you can learn on your own using online resources. There is an entire community of excellent sewing bloggers out there with tutorials for all levels of sewing ability. I too will be starting a learn to sew series on my blog soon!
I know House of Foxy from the UK has a menswear line www.20thcenturychap.com/ and Vivien of Holloway do some men's shirts. The webshop Unique Vintage has a men's section too, which is a bit hard to find but it is there under their clothing section. Vintage Dancer has a list you might find helpful too here vintagedancer.com/1940s/1940s-reproduction-mens-clothing/
Thank you Heather! I currently (and in this video) have just a regular bob haircut and its the same length all over. I have had a modified middy cut before too, but I decided to go back to a regular bob as I work in apparel production for my day job and can't always set my hair on weekdays and a middy cut looks quite strange un-set.
Thank you! Bianca Happy 2021 to you. Great video for ways for me to build on my style. I am at the point to DO more research in books 📚 and older Ads. As I continue to resonate with 1940s the most.
I have been interested in Vintage especially the 40s and 50s for years. I never felt like I can't dress Vintage since I never wear heels and hate dresses. Recently I found trousers form the 40s and I can't help wearing them all the time. I dress a lot in 90s grunge inspired clothing so I never know how to transition into 40s. I'm going to try and mix the two styles to make something unique. Do you have any tips for dressing Vintage when you aren't traditionally feminine and are more of a tomboy.
I'm afraid I don't really know much on this topic personally, because it's just not something I have experimented with myself I suppose, but again pinterest may be a good resource to find inspiration images of more trouser loving gals like Katherine Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich. I do love the more masc look on others for sure, I just am not very knowledgeable! I think the incredibly stylish Dandy Wellington has a course on menswear style for women, so it might be good to check out his channel! ruclips.net/user/DandyWellingtonvideos www.dandywellington.com/wardrobebuilding
Anyone of any age can wear vintage! Check out Nikki Redcliffe for some inspiration for example, she has wonderful style instagram.com/nikkiredcliffe/?hl=en
Definitely not! I think vintage style is for anyone who wants to try it, and there are some fabulously well dressed more mature women in the online and instagram vintage community. Nikki Redcliffe for example is certainly an inspiration (instagram.com/nikkiredcliffe/ of mine and several other stylish retro women like the much beloved Dita Von Teese are in their forties, so really any age can rock the look I think!
I am so sorry to hear that Carly! That's awful, they don't sound like very nice friends to me! :( You should get to dress however you want, and your friends should want you to be happy and have fun
I am really interested in vintage style Celtic fashion! Very simple colours, plain white tops witch some fancy stitching or embroidery. I started really looking into it and am going to start collecting :)
I think a vintage style (in the era you are most interested in) little black dress is a good place to start, as they can always be styled pretty modern too if needed, and work well for chic daytime things or dressed up for evening :)
@@TheClosetHistorian TheClosetHistorian thanks for the advice, I started with a black dress, a circle skirt and a blouse and now I have 2 dresses and another blouse. Any reliable retro/recreational brands out there I should check out? Ps: where do you find vintage magazines?
My favorite repro brands are House of Foxy, Heyday Vintage, Emmy Design Sweden and Vivien of Holloway. I buy vintage magazines (or catalogs mostly, I like them better than magazines) on Etsy or Ebay :)
research tip! i’ve found that it can be hard to find everyday women as references, especially teenagers pre-60s. What i do (as a Youth in the Real World) is go to a digital archive (local or state archives tend to be easier to navigate) and search something like “working women” or “students” or whatever, then narrow my search to only pictures and whatever era I’m looking for. I find it’s the easiest way to find images of actual people from a specific timeframe instead of just starlets, stylized pinups, models, and modern costumes.
ALSO! if you’re looking for decent length a-line/circle/generally flared skirts, uniqlo makes awesome ones! i own like 5 skirts total and 4 of them are uniqlo. they mostly come in earthy neutrals - think olive green, navy blue, burnt orange, maybe a khaki or an off white - which is 100% my vibe, and they’re crazy affordable for the quality. they’re often lined, they hold up in the wash, and full price is like $30 max (and you can get them on sale for like 10 bucks!). literally perfect. they don’t have a ton of irl stores, which is sad, but their online store has almost all the stuff.
I wish I had of actually started wearing vintage when I first became intereated in it. Because I would be literally 6 years into it by now. Instead of just starting out. I made the decision yesterday, I thought; stuff it, this is what I want.
Love this so much ! 👼🏽💕
Thank you Olivia!
The most frequent questions I get in public when I dress vintage inspired:
* Are you an actress?
*Are you going somewhere special?/Did you come from a special event?
*Can I take a picture of you?
*Why are you dressed like that? (Usually in a curious way, not rude)
What's cool is that most people seem to like it a lot. Ever since I started this wholesome obsession with vintage/pin up look, it really changed my life and it brings me so much joy. Vintage girlie forever!
I am glad to hear most of the response you have received is positive! More joy is always good :)
If you have access to old family photos, they could be a great reference for how everyday people dressed at the time you would like to emulate.
I totally agree, I wish I had more! Really old yearbooks are great for hair reference too!
It's what I do and I find it fascinating !
as a young aspiring vintage wearer, I found this video incredibly helpful. Not solely on the content itself but the way you present it made me feel better. You are very inclusive, never pick one side and always nuance what you say. For example you often add "if that's what you're into" which I love because not everyone wants to wear vintage completely, some may just want to add a few details here and there to their style. So thank you!
Thank you so much! I really do try and be as inclusive as I can, especially because vintage style as a general term is so broad and can encompass everything from rockabilly, to 1980's vibes, to strict 1930's art deco style or anything in between! One of my biggest pet peeves is when people are elitist about vintage style, so I try and keep far away from such nonsense :)
Good for you for bringing up not HAVING to buy Besame,etc.
Foam curlers and a lipstick from Walgreens!!
Very good point!
New Subscriber;)
Blessings
Mrs.O
Thank you! It's true after all, it is possible to get the vintage look without a huge investment in products and hair tools for sure!
Glamour Daze is a good resource on youtube and the website itself.
I totally agree! It's a great site :)
How about a series of videos on Capsule Wardrobes for different decades? That's fusion, right?
I'm not sure I have enough clothing for each era to make a capsule wardrobe for each sadly! One day maybe :)
Such great tips! I love late 1950 early 1960 (think “call the midwife”) and have been having to do double duty transition since I’ve lost 50 lbs and started dressing vintage. My biggest difficulty is getting skits/dresses to be long enough!
Thank you Evelyn! I love longer hemlines even on my 1940s looks, so I feel you on hemlines! That's why making things is great because then I can make them as long as I'd like, but I know not everyone sews :(
I'm 12 and I really wanna dress vintage hehe. My mom wouldn't let me because the dresses I own (Wichita almost all look vintage) are for formal occasions only :// But, I can always start with subtle hairstyles ;)
I didn't start wearing vintage things until high school myself , it can be hard to find daywear item sometimes! A good option for starting to wear retro style for daytime/school are simple skirts and button front shirts/blouses as they can be combined in new ways to make many outfits.
I really love '40s and '50s, but I can't just let go the decades... I mean there was so beautiful '20s and '30s homewear, such great make-up and dresses from the 60s, etc... Can we blend in different decades? And how that would be safely done?
I love all of the decades before 1960 really, so I have 1920s days and the next day I'll wear something totally 50's. I usually put together outfits focusing on one general era for the whole look, but there is no rule saying styling must be done that way! Many eras use parts of an older era's style, for example there was a big Edwardian throwback in the 70's and 80's with long white cotton dresses but 70's hair and make-up. One way to get inspiration for these kinds of styling choices is to look at 20th century period films from a later era, for example The Great Gatsby film from 1974 has 1920's fashion but tailored through a 1970's lens and style, or the 1967 film Thoroughly Modern Millie which is set in the 1920s as well, but the costumes feel very influenced by the 60's. You can feel free to blend any decade and may just discover some really amazing combinations!
That was very insightful! Thank you very much! I'm going to check the movies and to study more about each decade.
@@TheClosetHistorian I was born in 1960, and GunnieSax (sp?) Was huge! My wedding dress Incorporated that look. My cousin designed it from a few patterns
TheClosetHistorian Woah that's some awesome advice!! I never thought about it, but I've absorbed a lot of cowboy movies and tv growing up (thanks dad) and you can really see the evolution of the decades through each individual take on that late 1800's style. I'm going to keep an eye out for old historical movies now!!!
I absolutely love the late 40s early 50s era fashion and music. Also I get a good excuse to wear red lipstick because that became popular around then
Red lipstick is the best!
Yay I needed a video like this!! I'm 12 years old and want to start wearing vintage!
Thanks Mallory! I wish I had started collecting at 12! Wishing you the best of luck with your style!
Thank you!!!
Mallory Barkley Same but I'm 13, and I have a lot of good clothes to wear but my mom wants me to wait until school, even though I can take out any stains I have lol.
Sawyer Phillips same haha
That’s inspired!
your comment about hair and makeup made me think of old Western shows on TV like Bonanza. the women all had hair of the 1950's with costumes so it never looked accurate 😉
So many older films and TV did this with contemporary make-up and hair no matter the time period! Not very accurate ha
Love this one...all great tips.
Thank you so much!
I've only just found you on the "tube". This is the first vid I've watched and if your others are as good, then I have a lot to look forward to 😊. Really like your take on vintage, I myself have no preference on a decade I just love vintage in general, it's such a fantastic way to express yourself and look totally glamorous at the same time. I'm off to watch another of your vids now xx
Thank you! :)
My favorite era is the 20s. Short hair, loose clothing, pants, less makeup than today. I started sewing my 20s inspiration back to college clothes. Hopefully they'll be done in time
The 1920's is a gorgeous period for clothes, I need to do some more 20's sewing soon myself!
TheClosetHistorian im going back to college in a couple weeks and I'm thinking of getting a new school bag but a 1920 look. What do you suggest?
I would think a leather (or faux leather) or canvas shoulder bag/satchel would be perfect really, as if you search "1920's school bag" that seems to have been the most common style. If you want to invest in one that will serve for years and work well as a laptop bag or small carry on for travel perhaps check out the Cambridge Satchel co. us.cambridgesatchel.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIpui3xf3T3AIVBbXACh2BzwNtEAAYASAAEgLchvD_BwE or check out modcloth or other retailers for similar styles!
I really like the vintage style since my mom born in the 30’s and she looked amazing. Plus she made all of her clothing. I too know how to sew and enjoy making my designed fashionable clothes. Your vintage look is so beautiful and refreshing to see. Love watching your videos.
I discovered that my make up is pretty on target already :) I have to replace all my clothes anyway, so why not go vintage inspired so I feel better in them. I plan to sew most of it
Is it weird to suddenly want to start wearing vintage style when in your 50's lol
For the past year or so I have felt so drawn to the 40's fashion.
I can't help feel I'm just too old to change my style. Any thoughts?
I don't think it's weird at all! You can change your style any time you like, you should do what makes you happy and playing with style is for everyone of any age certainly
Doo it ! 💓 I love 40's too !
Yesss! Do it!
Me-*sees video is made in 2017*
Oh that’s like last year
Husband- Hun it’s the middle of 2019
Great video thanks. At 5'11" tall with broad shoulders genuine vintage is pretty much limited to accessories for me as very few women in the 30's and 40's were my height & size so it's great to hear your inclusive message.
Thank you! I truly do think vintage fashion is for everyone! I love accessories, they are so loyal-- they never let you down no matter how your size may change or anything ;)
I feel your pain!! I'm 6' 2" myself. One thing that I find super nice are pairing blouses and skirts. Most skirts from the post-war era were a good bit below the knee, so even if a skirt is a bit short it still usually hits beneath the knee. Also, you can adjust where you wear them on your waist to add length or shorten your torso! And if you're tucking in a blouse, it only has to be as long as your waist, instead of all the way to your hips. I have several vintage blouses that only go about halfway down my torso, but they tuck nicely into my skirts (and less fabric means cooler for the hot summer!!). Hope this helps!
@@TheClosetHistorian Thank you for bringing up sizes being an issue. I am totally in love with Victorian clothing but... opposite of what Fiona said, I'm a rather small woman, so I have a choice of the children's aisle or getting things custom made and so I've had to do things like pair vintage-esque tops with skirts I have in my closet. So far *knock on wood* , thanks to leaning a bit more steampunk, no one's dinged me for "being inauthentic". ;) As I've heard said, you can only work with what you have.
Sewing your own things can help.
I think this is your best & more natural video yet! Your skills are really improving
Thank you so much!
How do you accommodate for multiple eras in your style😭 I adore the 90s and 80s rock style but also the 50s and 60s classic styles.. I'm so conflicted 😭
I like a lot of different eras too, and some days I go quite authentic, a head to toe 1940's look say, or sometimes I mix eras, a 1940's suit but with an 80's patent clutch and more 80's bold new wave makeup, then the next day I'll wear something 1920's in style, it's all just play, there are no rules!
Love this. Could Someone pleaseeeee tell me how to Keep red lipstick on your lips. I blot, fill, outline etc etc, 10 minutes later I’ve a ring around my lips and nothing in the middle.
Thank you Nancy! Have you tried liquid lipsticks? I find liquid lipsticks have true staining and staying power compared to cream formulas (my favorites are from the brand Colour Pop).
I'll have to try that. My eyes water so much that I can't keep eye makeup on, so lipstick is especially important. When it wears off, I'm pretty colorless.
I notice as im watching you on different clips that your hair colour varies ..i love really dark hair and im thinking of doing my hair dark again which dose suit me .you look lovely with all the colours
..which do you like best as a vintage coloured hair ?
Thank you Henrietta! My hair is still quite damaged from when I had it bright purple last winter so it has a hard time holding onto color right now. I have been using a dark brown color conditioner (clove conditioner from the brand Aveda) to try and keep my hair color even, but it does indeed change and fade after every shampoo! So you're totally right, it changes from video to video and day to day for sure!
I think any hair color can work with vintage style, though I find natural colors the easiest to style with colorful clothes myself.
@@TheClosetHistorian your hair is naturally pretty dark, isn't it?
Bravo doll!!! Couldn't agree more with what you say! I hate the snobbery of some people in regards to wearing 'true vintage!'...Just no need for it! Sitting here nodding in agreement throughout this fab video. XOX
I just wish people were more democratic about style! It's one of my biggest pet peeves
I recently got super into Vintage Style and Historical Fashion, and immediately started altering my wardrobe to include more 50's and 40's inspired pieces. But I've come to the realization that what I really love is expressing an aesthetic I appreciate through fashion. So now I'm 50's picnic one day, Boho-chic beach the next, and 2000's high schooler the day after lol. I really enjoy vintage style but for me, it's more about choosing pieces which are versatile throughout my wardrobe for different aesthetics. I like to sew what I can, and thrift as often as possible, as well as (sinfully) scooping up basics from fast fashion clearance 🤷🏻♀️. Anyway I can create the aesthetic I want that day for the least waste/money is valid in my opinion (as long as I'm not claiming to be a perfect example of whatever decade I'm dressing)!!
I am just getting into wearing vintage, and luckily am a sewer. I have got my hands on vintage patterns and inspired patterns as well. Also, luckily there is a great vintage shop down the street from myhouse wear they have great deals on accessories, like scarfs. My goals is to have a vintage wardrobe in the next 4 years. :)
Sewing definitely helps! That's awesome that you have a vintage shop so close!
4 years have passed. Did you achieve your goals? 😄
@@hummingbird4335 As a matter of fact I have! 😄 I make my own clothes from vintage patterns and have recently taken up pattern drafting (thanks Bianca). Everything I don't/can't make is vintage/thirfted!
I really like this hair color on you!
Thank you! This video feels sooo old to me now, I wish I could refilm it sometimes with less crazy makeup eeek
@@TheClosetHistorian If you mean the lipstick I wouldn't worry about it. I think it was over drawn well and looks really classic especially paired with the eyebrows you had at the time. And I like the foundation. I marathon watched a lot of your videos yesterday because I'm sick and one thing I like to do when I'm too sick to knit or even read much is to watch movies and fashion and or make up videos on youtube. My head is currently shaved but I have been drawn to vintage again a lot lately. I'm not sure if I will keep it shaved and find wigs to style vintage or however I want or if I'll grow out my hair again. After having my head shaved over the years each time I've tried to grow it out I have just shaved it again. But wigs would be sooo impossible in the summer! So, I'm on the vintage bench so to speak lol
I have yet to find any youtubers on men's vintage style.
I would like to know if your aware of any male vintage style youtubers?
Other platforms I don't have issue. Instagram has no shortage, Twitter, ect.
The only vintage gentleman I can think of here on RUclips would be Matthew of the joint channel My Vintage Love, as they usually cover both his style/shopping as well as his lovely wife Michelle's. ruclips.net/channel/UCJoGZLr1XHWetqwnUVRcapQ Otherwise I don't know of any specific men's vintage style channels unfortunately. The vintage community here on RUclips is still so small, so hopefully more men will join in soon!
Thank you so much hun, your a life saver! I really hope more men hop on the train soon too.
Me too!
Do you have any tips for plus size people and vintage? I love the 1920’s to 1940’s style and obviously not many people back them were my size. Should I try my best to work around my body shape or forget the vintage dream?
Thank you for sharing ❤ I’d have a better response but I just spent 8 hrs sourcing and constructing more garden beds…is tired. But not bed yet, so I’m happily watching your videos.
Thank you for your approachable and very very helpful words. Plus you give such chill genuine energy.
Thank you that is so nice to hear!
As for me, I don't think I have to "choose" one period, I prefer to take what I find esthetical or what make me feel like a character in a lot of them, even if I have some preferences.
I usually hear that's it's better to focuse on one era in particular (and with reasons), but I don't think it's appliable to everyone.
Loved this video. Your delivery is funny and charming, and I like how much you take the accessibility of vintage style into consideration with these steps :)
Thank you! Accessibility is important to me and I think everyone should be able to enjoy vintage style
I'm obsessed with RAGO!!!can't live without it.
Great video, Bianca. Would love to see your closet. I'm consistently impressed by how many outfits you have, and how you mix and match clothing and accessories, so it would be interesting to see how you store it all.
Thank you Nancy! I can certainly put a closet tour sort of video on my to do list :)
I love this! I just started doing vintage style, particularly more vintage inspired repro. Honestly, I am very shapely, very athletic, and sometimes I can't find true vintage to fit my curves. I like stuff with a little lycra or stretch give to it (particularly skirts and pants). Repro makes it possible. I also love little finds of truly vintage stuff, but honestly it's no big deal to me. 40s and 50s are my jam. I love this video because it puts me at ease that I'm doing the right thing!
Thank you Roxie! There is no wrong way to do retro style in my opinion, wear what you like and whatever "sparks joy" I always say! :)
You have the best sense of humor!
I'm gradually transitioning to wearing vintage, but I was just wondering if you had any advice for wearing vintage with a strict dress code. My sixth form says that we must wear business wear - black blazer, black skirt or trousers etc and cannot 'push limits of fashion'. I don't really want to buy a whole new wardrobe as blazers can be quite expensive. Any tips?
The good thing is that blazers and skirts are already way more vintage looking than more mainstream modern fashion is! I would say the quickest way to look more vintage within these kinds of stricter limitations is just by changing the way you do your hair or make-up (if you are allowed to wear make-up that is). Also I would recommend looking at photos of 1940s/50s school girls outfits on pinterest or somewhere similar, as many wore skirts and blazers for school as well or had similar kinds of restrictions. The biggest trend among both school girls and university students at that time were saddle shoes and white socks, so if you are allowed to choose your shoes that could be a more vintage looking option. A lot of modern school uniforms are based on vintage traditional styles, and longer skirts (knee length to a bit past knee length) and collared shirts are good vintage basics in any vintage inspired school wardrobe, whether one's school requires them or not. I'm not sure if you are allowed to accessorize much, but brooches and other vintage style jewelry could help your outfits lean more vintage in style as well. My next video is actually about wearing vintage style in a school environment, so look for that coming soon!
Thank you so much xx I will look forward to your next video xx
Hi from Sydney, Australia! New subscriber. Thanks for the fantastic tips 🙂
Your hair lokks lovely.
This is so helpful ❤️❤️
Sorry for commenting on past videos like a stalker but I am currently binge watching your videos! I started getting into vintage style about 2 months ago seriously after always being too scared to take the plunge. My biggest road block is my size. I'm a big girl and at the top end of the size scale. I find 50s style repro a lot more accessible but am struggling with seperates and 40s style. True vintage is impossible really. Do you have any tips for us larger ladies who feel a bit excluded from the vintage arena?
Laura Wildey lindy bop online store has a lot of sizes
There are things from my childhood and my mother’s time that I like and prefer, make up I don’t do.
Another great video. Do you draft all of your own patterns? If not, which pattern companies make the best modern vintage-inspired patterns? I have a few true vintage patterns, but they are extremely delicate, often pricey, and difficult to find in the right size since they didn't come in multiple sizes in one sheet like modern patterns.
Thank you Sarah! I do indeed draft all of my own patterns, usually just slightly modifying a basic bodice and skirt pattern I made ages ago based on my measurements into different designs. I sadly have a hard time recommending commercially available patterns because I just haven't tried any! I'll try and talk about pattern drafting more soon, because I really do think it is easier than it may at first seem, and is such a worthwhile skill to develop :)
Yeah, perfect more balanced; plants😘
Love this and buying vintage is hard. But my closet is handmade clothing or 70s or 80s redo's of 30s 40s and 50s clothing
Thank you! I love a lot of the 80's does 40's stuff, all the fun of both decades!
Lovely! Where can I get a bullet bra? Does anyone know? :(
Thank you! Try the brand What Katie Did, or the Bali flower bra. There are others out there too, but I these two are probably the most common brands amongst the vintage gals I know!
Good tips and advice. It is all about what makes you look and feel good.
Random question...I just bought a coatdress. Do I wear it over a dress? That's what I was thinking but all the reviews were from women who just wore it as a regular dress.
I think they are supposed to be worn as dresses that look like coats, as opposed to over stuff like a coat is, but you can wear it however you like of course! I say layer away if you like the look and feel of it.
@@TheClosetHistorian thanks!!
Yes! Hair and makeup is such an important element of vintage style, and one that often seems to get over-looked. It takes a bit of work, practice, and research to get it right, but it really can make the difference between a style looking "vintage" or "modern".
I totally agree!
Hi!
I've just recently found your channel and the clothes you make are just amazing! Do you have any advice for someone like me who has never done any sewing? What's the first step in learning to make your own clothes? I can see fro some of your other videos that you have a dress makers dummy. Do you find that this is an essential piece of equipment?
The dresses in your summer look book video are so lovely I couldn't believe it when I learned you had made many of them yourself!
Thank you! Learning to sew can seem like a daunting task at first, but the basic skills aren't too hard to begin picking up. Luckily sewing machines aren't too expensive these days, and if you can find an old one at a thrift shop they can usually be fixed up and you don't need a fancy new machine to do most sewing. Though I have an old adjustable dress form, I don't use it for draping often (I prefer flat pattern drafting) at all and I think it is a very optional tool. I would say dress forms are most unessential actually! Usually Joanns or local fabric shops offer sewing lessons or can connect you with a seamstress who offers lessons, and I did take a few lessons when I was 12/13 and just starting out. Of course it is also something you can learn on your own using online resources. There is an entire community of excellent sewing bloggers out there with tutorials for all levels of sewing ability. I too will be starting a learn to sew series on my blog soon!
I've seen a lot of women's vintage clothing, however, do you have any suggestions for Men's reproduction clothing circa 1940's -1950's?
I know House of Foxy from the UK has a menswear line www.20thcenturychap.com/ and Vivien of Holloway do some men's shirts. The webshop Unique Vintage has a men's section too, which is a bit hard to find but it is there under their clothing section. Vintage Dancer has a list you might find helpful too here vintagedancer.com/1940s/1940s-reproduction-mens-clothing/
@@TheClosetHistorian Thank you, you're the best!!
love your hair. New to this channel and I am so impressed. I too love vintage. could you tell me what type of cut you have any layers?etc. THANKYOU
Thank you Heather! I currently (and in this video) have just a regular bob haircut and its the same length all over. I have had a modified middy cut before too, but I decided to go back to a regular bob as I work in apparel production for my day job and can't always set my hair on weekdays and a middy cut looks quite strange un-set.
Very informative, thank you.
Thank you! Bianca Happy 2021 to you.
Great video for ways for me to build on my style. I am at the point to DO more research in books 📚 and older Ads. As I continue to resonate with 1940s the most.
Thank you Jody! Happy 2021!
I have been interested in Vintage especially the 40s and 50s for years. I never felt like I can't dress Vintage since I never wear heels and hate dresses. Recently I found trousers form the 40s and I can't help wearing them all the time. I dress a lot in 90s grunge inspired clothing so I never know how to transition into 40s. I'm going to try and mix the two styles to make something unique.
Do you have any tips for dressing Vintage when you aren't traditionally feminine and are more of a tomboy.
I'm afraid I don't really know much on this topic personally, because it's just not something I have experimented with myself I suppose, but again pinterest may be a good resource to find inspiration images of more trouser loving gals like Katherine Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich. I do love the more masc look on others for sure, I just am not very knowledgeable! I think the incredibly stylish Dandy Wellington has a course on menswear style for women, so it might be good to check out his channel! ruclips.net/user/DandyWellingtonvideos www.dandywellington.com/wardrobebuilding
Where do you find 1940 catalogues?
Online, I would love to find them while out thriting or antiquing but I haven't seen any in the wild yet!
Bianca or any one in the comments, do you have an opinion on older women wear vintage clothing?
Anyone of any age can wear vintage! Check out Nikki Redcliffe for some inspiration for example, she has wonderful style instagram.com/nikkiredcliffe/?hl=en
Thank you I will@@TheClosetHistorian
Love this video and great advice. Perfect video to start my research ;)
Thank you!
Could you do a video of how to do vintage clothing for a work environment?
I can indeed, I'll add it to the list!
Is there an age limit to wearing vintage clothes as I'm in my 50s?
Definitely not! I think vintage style is for anyone who wants to try it, and there are some fabulously well dressed more mature women in the online and instagram vintage community. Nikki Redcliffe for example is certainly an inspiration (instagram.com/nikkiredcliffe/ of mine and several other stylish retro women like the much beloved Dita Von Teese are in their forties, so really any age can rock the look I think!
I think since you lived or knew family members who did, it rock it! You know what's authentic looking better than anyone!
@@ah5721 that is so true about it Amanda, and making your own clothes is even better 😊💕
A lot of my friends have been very nasty about me wearing 50s style. I feel very sad to go out in them now 😢 xx
I am so sorry to hear that Carly! That's awful, they don't sound like very nice friends to me! :( You should get to dress however you want, and your friends should want you to be happy and have fun
@@TheClosetHistorian thankyou so much. Your lovely. Yes I've been pretty upset but I feel so pretty when I wear 40s 50s style. Xx
Get new friends, and wear what you feel good in! Friends should be supportive of things that make you happy!
I am really interested in vintage style Celtic fashion! Very simple colours, plain white tops witch some fancy stitching or embroidery. I started really looking into it and am going to start collecting :)
Sounds fun!
J .S I don’t know if your mad....or why. My that’s my heritage. I feel like I should be into clothing my ancestors would’ve worn.
Amazing video... just what I needed
Thank you!
I don't know where to start but I do want to try it out even if it's one item
I think a vintage style (in the era you are most interested in) little black dress is a good place to start, as they can always be styled pretty modern too if needed, and work well for chic daytime things or dressed up for evening :)
@@TheClosetHistorian TheClosetHistorian thanks for the advice, I started with a black dress, a circle skirt and a blouse and now I have 2 dresses and another blouse. Any reliable retro/recreational brands out there I should check out?
Ps: where do you find vintage magazines?
My favorite repro brands are House of Foxy, Heyday Vintage, Emmy Design Sweden and Vivien of Holloway. I buy vintage magazines (or catalogs mostly, I like them better than magazines) on Etsy or Ebay :)