Yesterday's Styles Sizzle Today
The fashion world is always borrowing from the past.
In stores now, you're seeing a variety of "retro" items, from the ladylike '50s dresses to '80s-inspired leggings.
The great thing about retro clothes is that you can look stylish regardless of body type and budget. And "retro-chic" isn't just trendy, it can really flatter your figure.
In The Early Show's "Chic on a Shoestring" Wednesday, Shop Etc. magazine Editor in Chief Mandi Norwood showed how retro chic can work for anyone, without costing an arm and a leg.
In "Chic on a Shoestring," expensive "splurge" outfits are shown along with much more reasonably priced combinations, called "steals." It's often hard to tell the difference.
FIRST RETRO TREND: '50s PARTY ISSUES
In the summer heat, party-girl frocks are a must! The femininity of the '50s "A-Line" shape helps to disguise wide hips and accentuate small waistlines. A lá Sandra Dee or Elizabeth Taylor, feminine dresses still create a sexy and curvy silhouette. The floaty bell-shape bottom and linear pleats help disguise wide hips; these items don't cling to the body. The fitted bodice and flirty waistband help accentuate a smaller waist. Make this '50s look now with hot, metallic heels!
'50s SPLURGE
Jill Stuart Floral Print dress, $495
J. Crew Eliza Suede Sandals in gold, $168
Grand total: $663
'50s STEAL
Necessary Objects Petal Pink Mesh Surplice Ballerina Dress, $78
Nine West "Accolia" Sandal in gold leather, $49.99
Grand total: $127.99
For more retro splurges and steals, go to Page 2.SECOND RETRO TREND: '60s MINII-SKIRTS
It wouldn't be the '60s without the mini, and this black and white look never goes out of style. Great for a boyish shape, this tulip shaped skirt helps create curves, while showing off those lean legs! The crisp, mod look is a summer favorite. Tulip shape skirt and wide waistband help define a straighter waist, and the contrasting colors add shape and interest to a boyish figure. Make this look timeless by pairing it with chic white flats; the round shoe creates a shapelier leg and is less provocative than a heel. These oversized frames are quintessential '60s, but updated now by stars like Jessica Simpson. Add a bold bangle to complete this '60s look without complicating the clean lines.
'60s STEAL
Forever 21 Oversized Button Tab Skirt, $15.80
Zara Basics cotton tank, $7
Nine West "Poof" Ballet Flat in white leather, $59.99
Fantas Eyes "Opulence" Sunglasses, $20
Forever 21 Plastic Bangle, $4.80
Grand total: $107.59
'60s SPLURGE
Club Monaco white cotton mini skirt, $79
Ellen Tracy Back mini cable rib shell, $198
Prettyballerinas.com ballet flats, $160
Arnette Oversized Plastics, $80
Chanel Cuff Bracelet, $540
Grand total: $1,057
THIRD RETRO TEND: '80s TUNICS
The '80s are back, full swing! But this time around, the look is more subtle and sophisticated. No need to bring out the neon; we suggest a flattering tunic for those with a larger tummy. The '80s tunic helps conceal a big tummy, while creating an elongated line. Rich, dark colors help create a thinner, sleeker shape, so avoid the neon trend if you're trying to flatter your tummy. Spandex leggings actually help to tuck in the tummy and ground a roomier tunic. Wear a fun platform, this season's staple, to offset a top-heavy figure.
'80s STEAL
H&M Short-Sleeve Cotton Tunic in blue, $39.90
Xhiliaration for Target Leggings in black, $5.99
Urban Outfitters Round Toe Patent Cork Heel, $68
Forever 21 Gold Hoops, $2.80
Grand total: $116.69
'80s SPLURGE
Velvet by Graham and Spencer Cotton Tunic in blue, $128
American Apparel cotton spandex jersey leggings in black, $26
Aldo "Elsidia" Pumps in Black, $99.99
Agatha Gold hoops, $48
Grand total: $301.99