Author: Orla Doherty

Whie most high street shops are still going mad for eighties puffballs and strapless dresses, one or two earlier retro pieces are finding their way onto the racks. This Spot Shift Dress from New Look takes inspiration from a fifties and sixties look to bring some classic and fun style.

The shift dress shape perfectly compliments the print, with a cinched waist and short A-Line skirt creating a retro silhouette. The thickness of the fabric works well to create a structured bustline, and looks luxurious beyond its price tag.

It's available now from New Look for £28.

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Where vintage look footwear for women is concerned, a lower heel than most modern fodder is always a good bet. This pair of Sabrina Shoes from Monsoon are the perfect example of how well a heeled day shoe can work for retro fashion lovers.

The shoe's rounded toes and simple shaping keep them looking classic, while the rosette design provides something unusual. It stays in keeping with a number of vintage looks, though, thanks to its colouring and kitschy edge. The use of navy suede and a rich cream accent keeps this pair an ideal choice for looks from the forties right up to the sixties.

They're available online or in the shops from Monsoon for £45. Also available in all black.

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When searching for retro separates, skirts and trousers are an easy call, so for the tops to go with them a well tailored blouse is a truly versatile option. This Sheer Polka Dot Blouse by Darling is ideal for retro looks from workwear to a night on the town.

The peter pan collar, capped sleeves and striped accents at the buttons create a sixties silhouette that treads the line between cutesy and structured with ease. Grey polka dot fabric gives an obvious retro edge, while the sheerness adds some modernity and a little daring.

Get it online from ASOS for £40.

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Pop Art is another of those many retro buzzwords or phrases that seems to be used to give sixties cred to any number of items, but once in a while it's right on the money. This Pop Art Eye Print Blouse from designer line Philosophy di Alberta Ferreti is a truly unusual item with evident vintage influence.

The blouse combines many different stylistic points from the 1960s, from Ossie Clark's draped fabrics and colour schemes to a pop art eye motif. The high neck and collarless structure are a great nod to mid sixties London style.

It's available online from My Wardrobe now for £518.

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The high street is beginning to rush in new lines for Spring and Summer, and the latest of the many retro revivals from these shops seems to be the forties tea dress. This version from Miss Selfridge is a charming version that has clear vintage influence.

The simple and demure silhouette of the dress is enhanced by light and flowing fabric, giving the movement that's key to a genuine vintage piece. With an all over ditsy floral print, the pattern's retro charm is in the colouring, which remains muted enough to carry off a forties feeling.

Get it from Miss Selfridge now for £38.

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As time approaches to put the winter coats at the back of your wardrobe, the high street is starting to bring us some very appealing options for retro spring coats. Linen fabrics are an ideal lightweight choice, making this Spot Print Mac from Per Una at Marks & Spencer well worth a look.

The coat's long sleeves, high neck and A-line cut make a great mid-sixties style silhouette, with minimal detailing giving a nod to the sleek design of the decade. With a large spot print throughout, the design and pale blue colouring give a spring look that's definitely retro, while remaining easy to wear for anyone.

Get yours from Marks & Spencer now for £65.

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