Fashion is cyclical, with trends from decades past constantly making their way back into our closets. I’ve been obsessing over how yesteryear’s styles are dominating today’s runways and street fashion. From the roaring ’20s to the grunge-filled ’90s, here’s my take on 20 vintage fashion trends that have stood the test of time and why we can’t seem to let them go!
1. High-Waisted Everything
Remember when low-rise jeans threatened our dignity? Thank goodness high-waisted styles swooped in to save us! These figure-flattering wonders from the ’50s create that coveted hourglass silhouette while keeping everything tucked in just right.
2. Cat-Eye Sunglasses
Darling, nothing screams vintage glamour like cat-eye frames! First popularized in the 1950s by fashion icons like Audrey Hepburn, these feline-inspired specs instantly add mystery and allure to any outfit. Wear them tilted slightly upward for maximum effect!
3. Midi Skirts
Whoever said midi skirts were just for grandmas clearly missed the memo! These calf-length beauties from the ’40s and ’50s have made a spectacular comeback, offering that perfect balance between modest and flirty. Paired with sneakers? Absolutely divine!
4. Chunky Platform Shoes
If you’ve never felt the power that comes with adding three inches to your height through platforms, you’re missing out! These ’70s disco staples give me life when I’m feeling short on confidence. Plus, they’re surprisingly comfortable for all-day strutting.
5. Band Tees
Though I wasn’t alive during Led Zeppelin’s heyday, my vintage band tee collection suggests otherwise! Originally worn by devoted fans in the ’70s and ’80s, these graphic treasures now reign supreme as cool-girl staples. Tuck them into high-waisted jeans for instant rock cred.
6. Mom Jeans
How we mocked these in the ’90s! Yet here we are, embracing their high-waisted, relaxed-leg glory. Mom jeans have triumphantly returned from fashion exile, proving comfort and style aren’t mutually exclusive. Their forgiving fit makes them perfect for post-brunch food babies.
7. Oversized Blazers
Honey, nothing says ‘I mean business but make it fashion’ quite like an oversized blazer! Straight from the power-dressing ’80s, these shoulder-padded wonders transform even pajamas into acceptable public attire. I’ve been known to raid thrift stores hunting for authentic vintage pieces.
8. Round Wire-Frame Glasses
Where my Harry Potter fans at? Those iconic circular specs weren’t just wizarding fashion! Originally popular in the early 20th century and revived in the ’60s counterculture, these intellectual-chic frames have returned to adorn faces of both prescription-needing and fashion-seeking folks alike.
9. Scrunchies
Against all odds, these puffy hair saviors have bounced back from ’90s ridicule! Once the subject of fashion mockery (remember that Sex and the City episode?), scrunchies now adorn wrists and ponytails everywhere. Their fabric-covered gentleness prevents hair breakage—fashion that’s actually functional!
10. Leather Jackets
Honestly, did leather jackets ever really leave? From Marlon Brando’s rebel cool to punk rock’s heyday, these buttery second skins have remained the ultimate cool-person uniform. Whether genuine vintage or vegan alternative, nothing transforms an outfit from basic to badass faster.
11. Slip Dresses
Who knew lingerie as outerwear would become so acceptable? These ’90s minimalist darlings have slipped back into our wardrobes, proving less is indeed more. Layer over a t-shirt for daytime casual or wear solo with statement jewelry for evening glam.
12. Flared Jeans
After skinny jeans’ long reign, our ankles can finally breathe again! These ’70s bell-bottomed beauties have swung back into fashion, elongating legs and adding drama to every exit. Pair with platforms for true disco fever or chunky boots for a modern edge.
13. Bucket Hats
From fishermen to LL Cool J to festival fashion, bucket hats have covered heads across generations! These circular-brimmed wonders offer sun protection with a side of nostalgic cool. Available in endless patterns, they’ve evolved from practical gear to statement accessories.
14. Fanny Packs
Formerly the ultimate tourist fashion faux pas, these hands-free wonders have been gloriously rebranded as ‘belt bags’ by clever marketers! Originally peaking in the ’80s and ’90s, they’ve returned sleeker and chicer. Wear them crossbody for maximum cool-factor points.
15. Corduroy Everything
The fabric of professors and ’70s cool kids has returned in all its ribbed glory! Corduroy’s distinctive texture adds instant vintage vibes to any garment. From pants to jackets to bucket hats, this durable fabric brings warmth and character to winter wardrobes.
16. Tie-Dye
From hippie hallmark to pandemic pastime, tie-dye has splashed back into fashion’s consciousness! This psychedelic ’60s technique experienced a massive revival during lockdown when we all needed color therapy. Now it appears on everything from sweatsuits to designer dresses.
17. Barrettes and Hair Clips
Whoever said hair accessories were just for kids clearly hasn’t seen today’s embellished clip collection! These ’90s staples have graduated from practical to statement-making. Stack colorful snap clips for maximum nostalgia or try pearl-encrusted versions for grown-up charm.
18. Chunky Knit Sweaters
Nothing says ‘I’m ready for apple picking’ quite like drowning in an oversized knit! These cozy staples from the ’70s and ’90s grunge era have returned as the ultimate comfort fashion. I’ve collected enough to build a small yarn fortress in my closet.
19. Mary Jane Shoes
Sweet yet slightly subversive, Mary Janes straddle the line between proper and punk! These strap-across-the-foot classics have evolved from children’s footwear to fashion statements. The chunky-soled versions give me height while connecting me to their ’60s and ’90s heyday.
20. Plaid Everything
Whether channeling ’90s grunge or ’70s punk, plaid never truly disappears! This crisscrossed pattern has rebellious roots but works surprisingly well in any wardrobe. From flannel shirts to pleated skirts, plaid pieces add instant character and nostalgic edge.