Author: Orla Doherty

Psychedelic prints are often an immediate hit with retro lovers, but they can be difficult to carry off in clothing nowadays. This Isla Tunic from Monsoon plays it perfectly with a bold print accompanied by minimalist dress design.

The tunic's kaftan style shape fits ideally with a 60s psych look, providing that popular eastern influence of the time. With a simple, straight silhouette, the print pops without being overdone. Finally, the luxurious 100% silk fabric means this shape will fall perfectly on the figure.

Get it from Monsoon for £75.

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Lace inserts are just one of the many eighties fashion details that have made a startlingly big impact on the high street of late. This Black Lace Dress from Miss Selfridge provides an easy way to get that look, without looking tacky.

Avoiding another eighties trend for skin-tight cut, this dress's cutesy flared skirt and capped sleeves offer a flattering silhouette, with the lace left to add some much needed detailing to this little black dress. The floral design of the lace is delicate and continues across a sheer back panel, making this dress toe the line of skin-baring and demure with great flair.

Get it from Miss Selfridge for £45.

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Double breasted coat styles are very often based on a 1960s look, whether mod or military influenced. This Nautical Coat by Dorothy Perkins provides something a little different for retro enthusiasts, with a distinctly earlier era of influence.

The shape and cut of this jacket give a hint of forties and fifties feeling, with a sharply cinched waist accentuating the fashionable silhouette of the time. The wide collar and cuff buttons complete the nautical theme, tying into the popular sailor style of fifties pinups with ease.

Get it online from Dorothy Perkins for £60.

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When the winter weather draws, fashion often closes ranks on bright colours and light flowing fabrics. It's the perfect time to inject some sunshine into a party dress, though, and this Rabbit Print Dress by Peter Jensen is ideal.

The silk fabric is cut with a flowing shape that gives an effortless chic, reminiscent of a high end seventies loungewear style. The bold, bright print avoids looking tacky with luxurious fabric and shade choices, while still being vibrant enough to add some extra retro flavour.

It's available now from ASOS for £257.

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Office fashion is a phrase that's often uninspiring, but retro fashion can be the perfect salve for dull formal dress. This Waffle Tweed Jacket by DKNY is a great sixties inspired jacket perfect for the office and the evenings too.

In sharp monochrome colours, this jacket's shape is a great ode to Chanel style with a high, collarless neck and lightly fitted cut. The black accents on the pockets, buttons and piping add some timeless chic while a corsage detail adds some flair.

The jacket's available online from Net-a-Porter for £385.

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