Author: Orla Doherty

Treading the line between sexy vampish style and a demure edge is one of the most important elements of convincing retro style. For a real fifties feeling, this Gypsy Temptress Dress from Hollywood Flame gets that balance just right.

Combining a pretty plaid upper and sleeves with a body-hugging wiggle dress, the silhouette is a great 50s look thanks to that high waistline. The knee-length hemline is finished with a fringe to create something a little unique, still in keeping with the gypsy style.

It's available online from Hollywood Flame for £57.50.

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A simple and light cropped jacket is the ideal choice of retro outerwear for the coming Spring season, giving a sixties feeling to any ensemble. This Ribbon Trimmed Chambray Jacket by Ringspun takes the cropped shape and adds some neat vintage look detailing.

The collarless shape has an instant sixties appeal, while the ribbon trim detailing adds sharp structural detailing. Finished with large brass-look buttons and a fabric bow for interest, the pale blue is a perfect touch of Mary Quant girlishness.

Get it now from ASOS for £85.

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Two-in-one dresses, with a combined top and skirt, have been all over the high street for the past few seasons. That's good news for vintage fashion lovers as the high waisted shape is ideal for a retro silhouette. This Ottoman Dress from Principles by Ben de Lisi is a great example of a fifties/sixties look done with simplicity.

Monochrome stripes combined with the wide A-line skirt shape give an instantly retro feeling, creating a chic and feminine outline. The sleeveless top combined with a high neckline help to add a sixties chic with minimised bust.

Get it online from Debenhams for £70.

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While Spring seems to be taking its sweet time coming around, the cold weather still warrants a good overcoat investment for most of us. Chic cut and simple detailing are the best choice for a retro-look coat that you'll want to wear year after year, making this Cinzia Rocca a worthy investment.

Available in both black and camel, the rich fabric gives this coat a luxurious feel. The cut of this speaks for itself, with neat lapels and a cinched waist adding to the impact of its length and heavy quality.

Get it online from Bluefly for $715.

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African influence in the late 1960s counter-culture fashion best manifested itself via elaborate embroidery and daring colour palettes. This Kupang Embroidered Camisole captures the vintage interpretation of globalised fashion with flair.

The fitted shift shape's simplistic structure allows the complexity of the embroidery shine, coupled with bright spring colours and graphic border prints. In a light cotton it is ideal for Spring while being cut neatly for a sixties silhouette.

It's available from Monsoon now for £35.

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