How to Easily Achieve a Classy Vintage Look

If you’re drawn to timeless fashion, achieving a classy vintage look is easier than you might think. As a woman in her mid-twenties, I’m often told my style leans toward modesty (or, as my dad affectionately puts it, I dress “like a schoolmarm”).

I don’t consciously try to cover up, but I find the elegant simplicity of early 20th-century fashion far more appealing than today’s trends. There’s an undeniable charm in classic pieces like knee-length pencil skirts and tie-neck blouses. Plus, these outfits are comfortable, versatile, and effortlessly chic.

Over time, I’ve also revamped my makeup to match this vintage vibe. Gone are the smoky, dramatic eyeshadows of my teenage years; now, I prefer neutral tones that help me achieve that classy, vintage-inspired look. The beauty of this style is its flexibility—you can wear flats for a more casual look, dress it up with heels for work, or add a hint of glam for a night out.

Vintage Style Icons and Inspo: Taylor Swift’s Classy Take on Vintage

Love her or not, Taylor Swift has mastered the vintage aesthetic. From her red-carpet looks to her casual street style, she perfectly balances makeup and wardrobe for a vintage-inspired style. Her signature red lipstick adds sophistication to any look, and even her light eye makeup contributes to her elegant appeal.

While Taylor has a team of stylists and the budget to buy the best vintage-inspired clothes, the good news is that creating this look doesn’t require a celebrity paycheck! Watch the video above to learn more about her classic look.

Classic Vintage Hairstyles: Easy Tutorials and Tips

Achieving a vintage hairstyle doesn’t have to be complex. Hairstylist Sonya Benham shares fantastic DIY vintage hairstyles, with tutorials spanning the 1920s through the 1960s. Styles like victory rolls, pin curls, and finger waves might need a few practice sessions, but the results are adorable and well worth the effort.

For those less experienced with hairstyling, simple options like adding a thick headband or vintage hat can instantly elevate your look. One of my favorites is a cloche-style wool turban, perfect for adding a touch of vintage warmth in the winter. Etsy is a great place to find pieces like this, and Julie Sinden’s shop has an adorable selection.

Essential Makeup for the Vintage Look: Cat Eye and Red Lip

For a truly vintage makeup look, nothing beats the classic cat eye. I’ll admit, I’ve had a love-hate relationship with the cat-eye technique. I love how it looks but find it tricky to apply.

With some practice (and depending on your eye shape), it’s a stunning addition to a vintage look. Try a soft cat eye paired with neutral eyeshadow for a more natural feel, or go bold with a smoky swoop for evening glam.

Pinterest is full of tutorials offering various techniques for cat-eye makeup, tailored to different eye shapes and styles. Whether you’re a makeup pro or just starting out, it’s an excellent resource for perfecting your technique!

And if you’re not into heavy eye makeup, a simple pop of lip color can also create a vintage vibe. A red or deep berry lipstick adds the perfect retro touch, as seen in looks from events like the 2012 Paris Fashion Week. Even just a little color on the lips can transform your look, helping you achieve that timeless elegance associated with vintage style.

Vintage Style for Every Body Type and Occasion

Vintage-inspired fashion is not only beautiful but also incredibly versatile. It works across a range of body types, skin tones, and personal styles. And don’t think vintage style means delicate or overly feminine only; it can also be playful, bold, and striking, as seen in more fun, pin-up-inspired styles.

If you’re interested in trying vintage fashion without a big price tag, many mainstream stores like Forever 21 and H&M have a great selection of vintage-inspired pieces. With a bit of browsing, you’ll find affordable, stylish options to suit any occasion. For those looking for more dedicated vintage finds, Modcloth and ASOS are excellent options. Modcloth, though sometimes pricier, has a specialized selection that saves you the trouble of hunting for retro pieces.

Where to Find Vintage Fashion Inspiration and Pieces

• Modcloth.com – Known for high-quality vintage clothing and accessories.
• ASOS.com – An extensive collection of both modern and vintage-inspired styles.
• Pinterest.com – A hub for tutorials, inspiration, and ideas on vintage makeup, hair, and fashion.

Embracing a classy vintage look allows you to add timeless elegance to your wardrobe without sacrificing comfort or versatility. With just a few key pieces and some creative styling, you can create a personalized vintage style that suits any occasion—day or night!