Cocktail hats are the quickest, most effective way to achieve a forties inspired style. Since headgear was so central in mid and post-war style, getting it right is a must.
This sweet cocktail hat from Urban Outfitters certainly does just that, with a brimless beret/pillbox shape in a simple black felt. The gold detailing is left to shine, and does so in a classic, timeless way.
This hat’s available from Urban Outfitters UK for £28.
Classic duffel coats are a style that seems eternal and unstoppable in Winter coats. If you’re looking for a more feminine, unusual version, this French Connection coat is ideal.
Made from a thick wool in a great mustard colour, it’s both a statement as well as a practical choice. The a-line cut, Peter Pan collar and hip skimming hem add a more feminine edge to a unisex style.
It’s available online from ASOS for £160.
For most, long gone are the days when glasses were a sign of the uncool in the playground or otherwise. One of the most important of accessories for specs wearers, stylish frames are a must for something that’s worn almost always.
Retrospecs is a great site which has gathered together a huge range of designer labels and more affordable vintage inspired glasses frames for sale. Men’s, women’s and unisex frames are available, from all decades of style inspiration.
Miniskirts in a heavy fabric other than denim can be infuriatingly hard to come by. While Karen Zambos‘ Vintage Couture line doesn’t often live up to its name, the vintage inspiration on this mini is easy to see.
Made from a great shade of mustard plaid, this high waisted mini is a great shape and cut. The heavy fabric allows for a great fit, meaning the lack of A-line can be forgiven just this once. To be honest, though, anything in that plaid might just be a winner in my book.
The skirt is available online from Shopbop for $253.
If you’re looking to spoil yourself with something kitschy and retro, but can’t quite stretch to clothes or some of the more expensive designers, Dollydagger is a great one stop shop for affordable accessories.
Their latest additions to the jewellery range focus on the edible, as usual, with apples, cherries, ice cream and even cupcakes. Sweet, fun and a little bit cheesy, from earrings to bows and keyrings, there’s a gift idea or treat for yourself to be had.
Looking for a more casual fifties look can be much easier than expected, with many of the teen fashions of the time being adapted from men’s workwear in the first place. While capri pants are a bit of a sassy staple, their more casual sister, the Cigarette pant, is equally appealing.
With a less figure hugging style, this more relaxed, slightly longer cut version from Tarantula Clothing is great to dress up or down. With the ubiquitous high waist and a variety of bubblegum colours, they’re every inch the fifties look, whatever your spin on the decade.
Get them from Tarantula Clothing online for $84. What better time to support independent clothes makers than now, eh?
