Ah, the good ol’ days. When fashion revolved around dainty bags, delicate heels and skirts that let you have a second slice of pie. They’re all so good, in fact, that we had to bring them back…to our closets. Here, the most ladylike styles you’ll see popping up in stores and on sidewalks all year long.
9 Retro Fashion Statements We're So Happy Are Back
And how to wear them now
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Published Feb 16, 2016
The Micro Bag
Chiropractors around the world are rejoicing at the return of the mini bag. Thanks to the fine folks at Fendi and Balenciaga and Prada (and do we even need to go on?), many “it bags” are now available in extra-small sizing. Sure, they won’t fit much more than your phone and your keys, but do you really need to be toting around 14 lip balms, anyway?
Get the look: Zara ($50); Rebecca Minkoff ($195); JEMMA ($358)
The Kitten Heel
With what your grandmother would describe as “a sensible heel,” the latest iterations of this highly polarizing shoe feature interesting textures like suede (or metallic) and modern twists like pointy toes (or lace-up ties) that keep it from looking frumpy.
Get the look: Sam Edelman ($72); Jeffrey Campbell ($148); Prada ($640)
The Mock Neck Top
The recent resurgence of the mock neck is, admittedly, surprising. To make yours a little less Star Trek meets Steve Jobs, wear it as a base to your more contemporary items--like under a graphic sweater and with sleek culottes.
Get the look: Express ($20); The Fifth Label ($77); Everlane ($85)
The Midi Skirt
With a cinched waist and a flared shape, the midi skirt is the great equalizer of skirts. They look good on everyone--regardless of height or body shape. (So long as they’re hemmed to hit right below your knee.) Pair yours with a fitted top and pointy pumps for work. Or wear it with a loose sweater and flats on the weekend.
Get the look: COS ($125); Kate Spade ($257); Helmut Lang ($495)
The Ladylike Brooch
Statement necklaces have fallen out of favor for the resurgence of another unlikely piece of jewelry: the sparkly brooch. Keep it simple with a single oversized piece on the lapel of your jacket--or create an eye-catching cluster of various pieces instead.
Get the look: Topshop ($12); Baublebar ($42); Givenchy ($75)
The Pinafore Dress (or Jumper)
Also known as your new workhorse piece. Wear it over a silky blouse, a cozy sweater or even a modest crop top--this versatile piece works all year round and for any occasion.
Get the look: ASOS ($43); Mango ($80); ASTR ($88)
The Neck Scarf
Don’t dismiss this "ladies who lunch" staple as stodgy. When paired with more casual tops like a striped shirt or crew neck sweater, it adds just the right amount of polish.
The Fashion Sight
The "mom Jean"
Though we don’t fully love the name of this trend, it is what it is--an old-school cotton denim with a high waist and a straight leg. Wear yours with a tucked-in blouse and blazer to avoid looking, well, matronly.
Get the look: BDG ($79); Levi's ($88); Reformation ($118)
The Tassled Loafer
We can’t say it enough. Comfortable shoes--ones that you can actually walk in--are back in a very big way. (And thank God.) The humble '80s loafer is no exception. Wear them with the aforementioned mom jean or a springy gingham dress, and you’ve got yourself your next brunch outfit.
Get the look: Louise et Cie ($84); Dune London ($110); Stuart Weitzman ($198)
