So years ago I when I started swing dancing I started to dress in vintage whenever I went swing dancing. Eventually I stopped because buying and maintaining vintage was out of my budget and I was in college and then getting married to a non-dancer and then having the babies.
When I resurfaced 10 years later I learned about this whole world of pinup. I was so excited to find that there were now many vintage reproduction shops and pinup pageants and that vintage inspired style was alive and well!
It was all so exciting but overwhelming! Where should I start? What things could I change about my style immediately to give me that pinup vibe?
Here are my recommendations for looking like a pinup everyday.
1-Red Lipstick
Red lipstick everyday with everything! Red lip stick is a classic and looks good on everyone. I have a go to that I wear everyday, as well as a few other shades for nighttime or special events. If you’re not used to wearing it it may take a little getting used to, but it’s the best way to look vintage.
2-Winged Eyeliner
Ahh, the elusive perfect cat eye! I’ve been working on the perfect winged liner for years! I’ve watched every YouTube video, studied makeup artists, and I still struggle with it to be honest. But it immediately ups the vintage look.
3-Focus on the silhouette
The silhouette is the defining factor of different eras. Focus on a nipped in waist, high waisted pants, and feminine details. High waisted, belted, dark wash jeans with a tucked in shirt automatically look retro. Also focus on the design details- stripes, Polk dots, nautical motifs, and floral designs all have a retro feel.
4-Vintage Inspired Hair Style
It’s hard to look vintage inspired without the hair and makeup. In the post war and mid century eras, women’s hair was always curled or styled in someway, it was very rarely worn straight. For a modern rockabilly look straight hair is ok, especially with Bettie Paige bangs. For a more authentic vintage look, curl it or put it in a curly updo.
So that’s the very basics and a great place to start when switching over your style! What tips do you have for dressing vintage inspired everyday?