Old School Fashion Meets New Age Style

By Alexia Gonzalez on September 15, 2014

I’m a big believer in the idea that fashion is a cyclical process.

Much of the trends that are incorporated today are definitely inspired by looks from past eras, specifically in the case of the millennial. Our generation’s style, so fond of recycling, is like a hodgepodge of preceding aesthetics that have been rebirthed with a modern twist.

Just because a trend has gone extinct doesn’t mean that it will never return, or that you can’t personally reawaken it with an individually contemporary approach. Some of the greatest style icons of the past century will forever remain timeless sources of stylistic stimulus.

So you better think twice the next time that you’re laughing at your mom’s vintage duds because her favorite outfit from high school may be something you’d want to borrow in the coming seasons.

1950’s Style Inspiration: Sandra Dee

I know that this may count as cheating because the film “Grease” was actually filmed in the 1970’s, but it embodied all things fifties. Don’t get me wrong, I adore Sandra Dee in her poodle skirt and pastel tied over the shoulder sweaters, but my favorite part of her movie wardrobe was her transformation to rebellious greaser girl.

Sandy absolutely killed it in that black on black rockabilly getup, with skintight pants and off the shoulder top.

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In order to remake this look for an occasion other than Halloween, try pairing high-waisted black skinny jeans with a black tank top or blouse and red high heels for a pop of color. Don’t forget to add the leather jacket and red lips for some extra sandy-ness. You’ll look perfectly grease lightning.

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1960’s Style Inspiration: Edie Sedgwick

Edie Sedgwick was artist Andy Warhol’s iconic muse. She epitomized the fashion of the intellectual mod movement of the early sixties, a subculture birthed in the city of London.

Mod fashion was based in straight and simple silhouettes, bright colors and bold geometric patterns. Mini skirts, shift dresses, knee-high boots and drop-waist jackets were mod essentials of dressing.

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To achieve that modern mod, try a sleeveless straight-line dress or an oversized sweater with capri tight fitted pants. Add some chunky patent leather boots or loafers and flashy accessories, such as big sunglasses or a headband. Finish off your look with dramatic cat eye makeup and lots of mascara.

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1970’s Style Inspiration: Cher

Pop sensation Cher rocked some of the most amazing looks of the 1970’s. Not only were her stage costumes incomparable, her casual street wear was just as legendary.

On her off time, Cher materialized the quintessential seventies era babe, with ensembles including hip hugger bell-bottom jeans, bell sleeve blouses and high platform heels.

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You can easily recreate this outfit with a similar pair of bell-bottoms, a crop top or long sleeve shirt, wedges and a floppy hat for some added funky-ness.

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1980’s Style Inspiration: Elvira Hancock

The 1980’s were definitely a time when the fashions went a little overboard. It seems as though flashy colors, hyper accessorizing and an overemphasis of structure were all the rage. I personally find this type of apparel to be a bit difficult to reinvent for our modern day.

However, the character Elvira Hancock, wife of fictional drug lord Tony Montana from the film “Scarface,” brought a new realm of style to the typical idea of ’80s aesthetics.

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Her minimalistic wardrobe exuded class and confidence in a way seldom achieved with the stereotypical idea of 1980’s fashion. Elvira’s signature looks included plunging necklines and thin strapped dresses, as well as her infamous all white skirt suit. Never overwhelming, she adhered to a bright yet subdued color palette of emerald green, pinks and neutral tones.

Elvira’s posh style is one that can easily be achieved with a contemporary twist. Try pairing a silky blouse with a pencil skirt and decadent gold accessories. Aim for simplicity in your application of makeup with peachy cheeks, liquid liner and a muted lip.

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1990’s Style Inspiration: Kelly Kapowski

Kelly Kapowski, from the 90’s sitcom “Saved By the Bell,” is the immortalized queen of high school cool. Her style transcends the decade and classroom and will forever stand out of the popular crowd.

Kelly was infamous for her oversized denim jackets, cut off tops, suspenders, floral print jeans, off the shoulder sweatshirts and bodycon dresses to name a few. Think neon colors, festive prints, statement accessories and VERY big hair.

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Try out your own version of the Kelly K. with anything from a crop top to a denim blouse, layered over a flowery skirt. Don’t forget to seal the deal with colorful accessories like bright shoes and an eccentric purse.

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Although many of these stylin’ ladies may have been fictional characters, their sense of fashion incited very real inspiration for girls growing up during their pertaining decades.

Not only did their wardrobes shape an era, they continue to stand the test of time and provoke an influence on the ways in which the modern girl dresses today.

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