Vintage Comeback and Style

I attended the talk titled Fashion 911 yesterday given by my friend Esther. The talk had three main parts--vintage comeback, must-haves, and look for less. The talk is an update of the Do You Want to Be Stylish? Have You Found Your Personal Style workshop for students and young professionals held last November.

The Speaker: Esther Ong

The talk started off with a description of vintage style followed by a brief background on the eras that defined vintage style as we know it today. The speaker gave examples as to how socio-political events then influenced style and fashion. For instance, floral prints and earth-tone colors were typical of the hippie culture that advocated back-to-nature way of life. The puffed/padded sleeves symbolize women prowess that has its roots in women rights movements that consequently empowered women over the years.

The background on puffed/padded sleeves reminded me of Lady Gaga. It all makes sense now.

Esther stressed that the contemporary vintage look is the current fashion trade. Boutiques such Top Shop, Zara, and Mango have incorporated the vintage designs into their pieces. Aside from floral prints and puffed/padded sleeves, vintage style must-haves include brown belts, sailor/nautical/navy designs (i.e. stripes), and denim, among others.

The speaker shared practical advice on achieving a vintage look for a fraction of the original designer price. The tips were useful, since Esther was able to name establishments to visit and which brands to look for. Her personal favorite is SM department store, because of its up-to-date collections and quality items. The basic technique is to take advantage of price differentials by finding chic but inexpensive alternatives.

Identical beadwork design from Zara (left) and a department store-bought top (right)

Congrats, sis!