Author: Orla Doherty

African and Indian influence in fashion were big news in the 60s and 70s, and the use of vibrant Eastern prints is a great way to make a retro impact. This India Print Tunic by Oli is a great example of a late sixties interpretation of the influence.

The tunic shape provides a reworking of a kaftan style into the classic mini dress, with a subtle A-line silhouette and three-quarter length sleeves. Peep-hole cut outs at the collar add just enough skin, while the collar stays high for a faithful retro shape. Finished with a psychedelic print in bright colours, this dress is easily styled for sixties and seventies looks.

Get it online from Oli for £25.

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The 1940s endures most in the annals of fashion thanks to the tea dress, a style that never seems to lose favour with fashion designers across the years. This version from Big Beautiful Barbara Brown stays true to the retro aesthetic with some forties and fifties design points.

Available in four fabric choices, each centres around the inclusion of cute and kitsch cherry print. From the plain black with appliqué cherries, to the all over print, the dresses are each pitch perfect in their structure. The sweetheart bustline combines with a portrait collar to give an unmistakeable and timeless vintage look.

Get yours online from the website now for £58.

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While dresses with vintage influence are in relative abundance, finding chic retro separates can be a tall order, especially where statement pieces are concerned. This Floral Cropped Blouse from Miss Selfridge is a rare find on the high street, thanks to its clear 50s influence.

The blouse ticks plenty of boxes for a fifties look, with a cut that's sleeveless and cropped it flashes just enough flesh when teamed with a high waistline on the bottom. The tie at the waist gives this enough femininity to offset the masculine shirt collar, while the floral print avoids being too girlish.

It's available new in at Miss Selfridge for £22.

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Simple and chic strapless dresses have been popular since before the 1950s, and continue to prove a versatile style in womenswear. This Scarlet Silk-Blend Dress from Temperley's Alice diffusion line subtly combines a healthy dollop of retro influence with modern style points.

Taking inspiration from the fifties use of sweetheart necklines, this dress adds a modern twist by squaring off the bustline. Contrasting the curves of vintage silhouettes with some angles, the retro appeal is still kept intact with a high waistline and pencil skirt shape, along with a cutesy polka dot print.

It's available online from Net-a-Porter for £246.

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