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Fashion history – Sharon Tate

Sharon Marie Tate Polanski, born on the 24th of January 1942, in Dallas, Texas, was an American actress and model who became a symbol of beauty and talent in the 1960s. Her life, though tragically cut short, left an indelible mark on Hollywood and popular culture. Early life Sharon was the eldest of three daughters to Paul James Tate, a U.S. army officer, and Doris Willett. Due to her father’s military career, the family moved

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Fashion History – Jacques Fath

Jacques Fath was a prominent French designer, celebrated for his influence on post-World War II haute couture. Early Life Born on the 6th of September 1912, in Maisons-Laffitte, France, Fath hailed from an artistic lineage. Caroline and Georges Fath, his great-grandparents, were fashion illustrators and writers, and his grandfather, René-Maurice Fath was a landscape painter. Initially, Jacques Fath studied bookkeeping and law, briefly working as a stockbroker. However, his passion for creativity led him to

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Essentials you should own: 1960s fashion

From the sleek sophistication of the mod look to the colourful exuberance of the bohemian trends, the 1960s offers something for every vintage fashion fan. Whether you’re drawn to the clean lines of Jackie Kennedy or the playfulness of Swinging London, here’s a guide of the essentials you need to get a quintessential 60s-inspired wardrobe. The shift dress With its simple, straight silhouette and playful appeal, the versatile shift dress works for casual days and

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Fashion History – Frederick’s of Hollywood

Frederick’s of Hollywood, founded by Frederick Mellinger in the mid-20th century, revolutionized the lingerie industry with bold designs and innovations like the padded bra. The brand thrived on Hollywood glamour and cultural impact but faced challenges from competitors and societal shifts. Today, it operates online, continuing its legacy of provocative fashion. … Continue readingFashion History – Frederick’s of Hollywood

Essentials you should own: 1950s fashion

The 1950s is a golden age of fashion, with iconic silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and polished styles that reflects the post-war prosperity and hope for the future. The decade celebrated femininity, curves and elegance, creating timeless glamour that is still revered today. Whether you’re building a 1950s-inspired wardrobe for everyday wear, or looking for something for a special occasion, here’s my guide to the essential items you should own. The full skirt The full circle skirt

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Essentials you should own – 1940s fashion

Defined by resourcefulness, elegance and timeless style, the 1940s is a fascinating era of fashion. Despite the constraints of rationing from World War II, people found creative ways to stay chic. Sharp tailoring, versatile silhouettes and practical-yet-stylish accessories, the 1940s is easy to work into your daily look. Here’s a guide to the essential items you should own to recreate an authentic 40s wardrobe. The Utility Dress At the heart of 40s fashion is the

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Fashion History – Pattie Boyd

Pattie Boyd, born Patricia Anne Boyd on the 17th of March 1944 in Somerset, England is a model and photographer known for her influence on 1960s fashion as well as her relationships with George Harrison and Eric Clapton. Her life has a vibrant modelling career, well-known relationships and contributions to the arts. Early Life Pattie was the eldest child of Colin Ian Langdon Boyd and Diana Frances Boyd. Her childhood involved frequent relocations due to

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Get the Look – Katharine Hepburn

Katherine Helburn redefined women’s fashion with her confident, androgynous style, pioneering the way for women in menswear. In an era when ultra-feminine styles dominated, Hepburn boldly embraced tailored trousers, crisp button-downs, and oversized blazers, proving that comfort and elegance could coexist. Her effortless, no-nonsense style remains just as relevant today, inspiring designers, celebrities, and fashion lovers around the world. If you want to channel Katharine Hepburn’s timeless aesthetic, this guide will show you how to

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Fashion History – Barbara Hulanicki

In vibrant 1960s London, Biba quickly emerged as a fashion phenomenon that redefined style and retail culture. Founded by Barbara Hulanicki, Biba’s journey from a modest mail-order business to a bustling fashion emporium reflects the spirit of 1960s innovation and youthful energy. Barbara Hulanicki: The visionary behind Biba. Born in Warsaw, Poland in 1936, Barbara Hulanicki was immersed in creativity from a young age. Her father, who was a diplomat, was tragically assassinated when she

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Fashion History – Anne Fogarty

Anne Fogarty was an influential American fashion designer whose work from the 1940s through to the 1980s left a lasting impact on women’s fashion. Known for her elegant, accessible collections, she played a major role in shaping mid-20th-century style. Early Life and Education Born Anne Whitney on the 2nd of February 1919 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she was the youngest of four children to Robert and Marion Whitney. Her parents had immigrated in 1909 from Cape

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Fashion History – Priscilla Presley

Priscilla Presley is more than just a footnote in the story of Elvis Presley; she is a trailblazer, a style icon, and a cultural figure who has carved out her own legacy. From her early life as a military child to becoming the wife of the King of Rock and Roll, Priscilla’s life has been filled with love, challenges, and reinvention. After her divorce, she transformed herself into a successful business woman and actress while

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What they wore: 1960s Dolly Girls

During the 1960s, there were anumber of fashion subcultures that emerged thanks to the profound cultural shifts. The “Dolly Girl” style stands out for its blend of youthful innocence and mod sophistication. Rooted in the United Kingdom, Dolly Girls summarise the era’s spirit of rebellion and innovation, leaving a mark on fashion history. Origins of the Dolly Girl subculture The Dolly Girl aesthetic blossomed in mid-1960s London, closely integrated with the mod movement. As young

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What they wore – 1960s wedding

Weddings in the 1960s reflected the decade’s significant shift towards more playful and relaxed styles, making a departure from the formality of previous decades. Bridal styles In the 1960s, wedding dress styles noticeably changed, reflecting the changes to society and the rise of the youth and mod cultures. Key characteristics of the bridal dress styles include: Silhouettes and hemlines The early 60s were still influenced by the elegance of the 1950s, so full skirts and

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Fashion History – 1940s Socialites

The socialites of the 1940s were largely defined by their connections to prominent families, glamorous lifestyles, and influence in fashion, arts, and entertainment. Despite World War II and its impact on global society, many of these individuals remained fixtures in elite circles, hosting lavish parties, influencing style, and mingling amongst the rich and famous. Barbara Hutton Known as the “Poor Little Rich Girl”, Barbara Hutton was the Woolworth heiress and one of the richest women

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What they wore: 1960s mod

The 1960s was a decade of cultural upheaval, experimentation, and above all, a profound reinvention of youth identity. At the heart of this revolution was mod culture, a subculture that didn’t just set fashion trends but also redefined music, social attitudes, and urban life. Born in the streets of London, this movement quickly spread across the UK and beyond, becoming one of the most distinctive and influential styles of the 20th century. So, slip into

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What they wore – 1960s Winter

The 1960s was a decade of bold changes, from music to politics to, of course, fashion. While we often think of mini skirts and mod looks, women in the ’60s also had to contend with chilly weather – and they did so with style! Whether they were heading out to work or enjoying a weekend shopping trip, winter fashion in the 1960s needed to be the perfect blend of cosy and chic. Early 1960s: Tailored

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Fashion History – Babe Paley

Babe Paley was more than just a style icon – she was a woman who captivated the world with her grace, elegance, and influence, leaving a lasting legacy on mid-20th-century society. Known for her impeccable fashion sense and her role as one of Truman Capote’s famous “swans”, she moved effortlessly through the most exclusive circles, shaping trends and setting standards for beauty and poise. However, beneath the glamorous facade, Babe’s life was also marked by

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Fashion History – The Cocktail Dress

The cocktail dress has long been a staple of chic evening wear, embodying sophistication, mystery, and glamour. As a symbol of classic elegance, the cocktail dress has a fascinating history that reveals much about cultural changes in style, social norms and women’s empowerment. The origins – 1920s – 1930s The cocktail dress has its roots in the Roaring Twenties, a decade marked by liberation and defiance. As prohibition gave rise to clandestine “cocktail hours,” women

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What they Wore: 1950s Winter

The 1950s were a decade of refined elegance and classic style, even as the winter chill set in. Women of this era knew how to stay warm without sacrificing an ounce of glamour, combining practicality and sophistication. If you’re looking to bring a touch of 1950s charm to your winter wardrobe, or simply enjoy the nostalgia of vintage fashion, lets take a look at what women wore during the winter months in the 1950s. 1950s

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Get the look: Edie Sedgwick

Edie Sedgwick, Andy Warhol’s muse and a key figure in 1960s embraced an effortlessly cool and rebellious style that is as influential today as it was then. Known for her bold, minimalist outfits, heavy eye make up, and striking accessories, Edie’s look is a perfect blend of sophistication and edge. If you want to channel her iconic style, here’s how to dress like Edie Sedgwick. Monochrome mini dresses and striped pieces Edie’s wardrobe often featured

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Fashion History – Icons, designers and trendsetters: 1960s

Women’s fashion in the 1960s were marked by a radical departure from the structured, elegant styles of the 1950s. As society shifted toward greater freedom and self-expression, fashion evolved to reflect the changing attitude of society. The decade saw the rise of youth culture, bold experimentation and increasing rejection of cultural norms. Influential designers and style icons shaped these changes, turning the 1960s into the fashion revolution that still inspires today. Mary Quant When it

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Get the look: Twiggy

To dress like Twiggy, the iconic 1960s model and style icon, you’ll want to channel a mod aesthetic that celebrates bold patterns, short hemlines and fun accessories. Here’s how you can get the look. Mini Skirts and Dresses Twiggy popularised the mini dress, a staple of 1960s fashion. The silhouette typically included an a-line shape, empire waistline and hemlines hitting well above the knee. These dresses have a playful, youthful vibe, reflecting the “swinging London”

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Fashion History – Halloween in the 1940s

Step back in time to the 1940s,when Halloween was a night of spirited fun with a touch of wartime practicality. The holiday, deeply rooted in tradition, saw trick-or-treating and costume-making as cherished pastimes, creating lasting memories, and uniting communities. It was a decade when children roamed their neighbourhood in homemade costumes, and Halloween parties brought people together amongst the backdrop of wartime America. The Spirit of the Season Halloween in the 1940s was a modest

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Fashion History – Barbara Hutton

Barbara Hutton (1912 – 1979) was an American socialite, heiress, and philanthropist. She was widely known as the “Poor Little Rich Girl” at first due to her lavish coming out ball sorting the Great Depression and later due to her tumultuous personal life. She inherited the Woolworth fortune becoming one of the wealthiest women in the world. Despite her wealth, she endured a series of personal tragedies, failed marriages and a complicated public image. Early

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Fashion History – Lee Miller

Lee Miller was a pioneering figure in both the worlds of art and journalism, seamlessly transitioning from a celebrated fashion model to a trailblazing war photographer. With her early life marked by both privilege and trauma, she used these experiences to shape her unique perspective on the world. Early Life Born Elizabeth “Lee” Miller in 1907 in Poughkeepsie, New York, Miller was raised in a creative household. Her father, Theodore Miller, was an amateur photographer,

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Fashion History – Ingrid Bergman?

Ingrid Bergman was not just an actress, she was a cinematic icon who redefined beauty and talent in the film industry. Born in Stockholm, Sweden on the 29th August 1915, Bergman charmed audiences globally with her luminous on-screen presence and genuine acting style. With a career that spanned five decades, she became one of the most influential actresses of the 20th century, leaving an indelible mark on classic Hollywood cinema. Ingrid Bergman’s early life Ingrid

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Fashion History – Icons, Trendsetters and Designers – 1950s

The 1950s was a golden age for women’s fashion, marked by a return to elegance, femininity, and a celebration of the hourglass silhouette. After the austerity of the 1940s, fashion in the 1950s embraced luxurious fabrics, full skirts, and a renewed emphasis on the idealised feminine figure. Several key individual were at the forefront of this fashion revolution, from designers who defined haute couture to movie stars who set trends with their impeccable style. The

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Fashion History – Edie Sedgwick

There are few figures from the 1960s the embody the spirit of the decade like Edie Sedgwick. Model, actress, socialite and muse, Edie was the face of Andy Warhol’s underground scene and captivated the world with her striking looks, bohemian style and glamorous, yet tragic life. Born into wealth and privilege, her brief life was a whirlwind of fame, fashion and turmoil, making her a cultural icon who continues to inspire. The early life of

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Fashion History – Diana Dors

When you think of Diana Dors, visions of a glamorous, larger-than-life movie star may come to mind. Often referred to as Britain’s answer to Marilyn Monroe, Dors captivated the public with her beauty, charisma and penchant for drama. But there is so much more to her than the glitzy persona she projected. Behind the dazzling smile and platinum hair, Diana Dors was a complex, savvy woman who continually reinvented herself, both on and off screen.

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Fashion History – Icons, designers, and trendsetters – 1940s

Fashion in the 1940s was heavily shaped by the global turbulence of World War II and the post-war recovery. The need for practicality blended with the desire for elegance resulted in a fashion era that remains iconic today. Influential figures left a lasting mark on the style that defined 1940s fashion, making a mark on both everyday attire and high-end couture. From movie stars to visionary designers, these individuals were key to shaping the look

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What they wore – 1940s Fall / Autumn

As the crisp autumn breeze began to sweep through the streets in the 1940s, fashion for women needed to blend practicality and elegance. While wartime restrictions had an influence on fabric availability and design choices, women still managed to create chic and tailored looks. 1940s women’s fashion during fall not only balanced functionality but also embodied a refined sense of femininity, highlighting the resilience and creativity of the era. Key elements of 1940s Women’s Fashion

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1960s make up

The 1960s brought a dramatic shift in makeup trends, ushering in the era of bold, playful looks. Where the 1950s was about the polished, feminine housewife, the 60s was defined by the rise of youth culture, modernism, and the iconic mod movement. Makeup became less about enhancing natural beauty and more about making bold statements. The eyes – it’s all about drama Key Look – Heavy Liner, Cut Crease and Doll-like Lashes One of the

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What they wore – 1960s autumn

The 1960s was a transformative era in fashion, with bold designs, innovative styles and a new sense of freedom. When it comes to 1960s fall and autumn women’s fashion, this decade doesn’t disappoint. As the leaves began to change and the air turned crisp, women embraced the season with vivid hues, cosy fabric and mood style. Together, we’ll explore the most memorable trends of the swinging 60s for cooler weather, blending practicality and style. Mod

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What they wore – 1950s Autumn and Fall

As the year moves into a colder season, it can be difficult to keep your vintage style. In fact, it’s one of the things I get asked the most. Taking a look at what they wore in the 1950s fall and autumn season is a great way to channel the styles of the past into your look – and as you know it’s one of my favourite ways to get some inspiration. As with the

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What they wore: 1950s Prom

Prom season is always just around the corner, and there’s no better way to make a stylish statement than by channeling the timeless vintage vibes of 1950s prom fashion. The 50s were a decade of classic beauty, with full skirts, polished curls and glamorous accessories. If you want something different for your big night, then the 1950s will offer you a treasure trove of inspiration. The Classic 1950s Prom Dress The quintessential 1950s prom dress

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What they wore – 1960s lingerie

The 1960s were a revolutionary decade, and the world of fashion was no exception. Cultural norms were shifting and clothing was evolving, and the delicate undergarments that women wore changed alongside it. From the beginning of the decade, the structured silhouettes from the 1950s were still worn, but this moved into carefree and playful designs by the late 1960s, lingerie reflected the changing times. The Early 1960s: Classic Glamour and Structure The beginning of the

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Vintage Tips – How to dress 1950s Style on the High Street

The 1950s was a time of great fashion innovation, with styles ranging from the feminine and elegant to the edgy and rebellious. Today, 1950s style remains popular, and it is possible to dress in this iconic fashion on the high street. In this article, I’ll give you some tips on how to dress in a 1950s style on the high street. Start with a classic silhouette The 1950s was characterized by feminine silhouettes that accentuated

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Fashion History – Mary Quant

Mary Quant, a trailblazing fashion designer who revolutionised the industry in the 1960s and beyond She was the designer of the classic mini skirt as well as the vivid, eye-catching cosmetics that encouraged a generation of women to challenge conventional gender roles and e xpectations. Mary Quant swiftly established herself as a household name and a key player in the fashion and cosmetics sectors with her lively, youthful energy and bold approach to design. We’ll examine

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Vintage Tips – How to get 1960s style on the high street

The 1960s were, as we all know, a decade of significant societal and cultural change, and the fashion of the era reflected that. Fashion and style were influenced by music, art, and politics and featured bold prints, mini skirts, and statement accessories. For the first time, young people became the leaders of fashion, following the trend of teenagers having extra cash to splurge in the 1950s. If you’re looking to echo the looks of the

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Fashion History – Dovima

In the world of fashion, few names are as iconic and enduring as Dovima. Born into poverty in Queens, New York, Dovima faced numerous challenges and obstacles on her path to success. However, through hard work, perseverance, and an unyielding passion for fashion, she went on to become one of the most famous models of her time and a lasting symbol of elegance and glamour. Dovima’s story is a testament to the power of determination

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Fashion History – Marilyn Monroe

The modern world is obsessed with Marilyn Monroe. This all started when she burst onto the scene in the 1950s. She was an American actress, model, and singer famous for playing comedic blonde bombshells in her movies. One of the most enduring sex symbols of the 50s and 60s, she has become a pop culture icon and is emblematic of the era’s sexual awakening. There’s much more to Marilyn than the funny, dumb sex kitten,

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1950s Make Up

Following the popularity of make up in the 1940s, the 1950s was when cosmetics really started to enter it’s golden age. The baby boom in America and the post-war economic boom, wealth began to grow and with it the need to keep up with trends in a society where impressions are everything. 1950s make up mega brands elbowed out the smaller companies who had started their business mere decades before. Many of those mega brands

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Get the look: Audrey Hepburn

Audrey Hepburn is one of the most enduring style icons of all time. Known for her grace, sophistication, and effortlessly chic wardrobe, she perfected the art of minimalist fashion with a mix of Parisian elegance and classic Hollywood glamour. From her little black dress in Breakfast at Tiffany’s to her casual ballet flats and cigarette pants, Audrey’s style remains as relevant and inspiring today as it was in the 1950s and 1960s. If you want

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Who is Lauren Bacall

Born Betty Joan Perske, Lauren Bacall was named the 20th greatest female star of classic Hollywood cinema by the America Film Institute and recieved an Academy Honorary Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2009. Known for her alluring, sultry presence and distinctive, husky voice, Lauren Bacall began her career as a model before embarking on her film career. Early life of Lauren Bacall Lauren Bacall was born Betty Joan Perske

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Who is Rita Hayworth?

Born Margarita Carmen Cansino on October 17 1918, Rita Hayworth was born into a family of dancers in Brooklyn, New York. The world would worship her as a sex symbol and star of movies like Gilda, You were Never Lovelier, and Separate Tables. But what happened to her as a child would scar Rita Hayworth for the rest of her life. Rita Hayworth achieved fame in the 1940s as one of the top stars of

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Gene Tierney – Hair curling and styling tutorial

Gene Eliza Tierney was an American film and stage actress and was acclaimed for her great beauty. Whilst she wasn’t known as a great actress, she was admired for her striking cheekbones and vivid green eyes. To get her signature curls, you do need to do a pin-curl wet or dry set. I’ve recently started to set my hair again so I thought I would share my tips and results from one of my favourite

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1940s Make Up

Hello Kittens, I thought I would start to share my make-up looks as I see online all the time people not knowing where to start. I have gone through the learning phase, and find that learning about the history and context of the times helps me to understand why things were done a certain way. I am starting with a 1940s make up look, this is a girl next door look for me – neat

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What they wore – 1940s Summer

Getting your perfect 1940s summer look is easy when you see what kind of outfits were worn. I cannot think of anything better than a light, floral 1940s dress when it’s hot and sticky outside. For me there is nothing better, and as its a sunny day today I’ve been looking at some of these wonderful looks across the internet. In a nutshell, 1940s fashion was an hourglass silhouette with masculine detailing. Padded shoulders, nipped-in

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Who is Hubert Givenchy?

Hubert de Givenchy is known for introducing the world to the “Little Black Dress” and dressing Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy, but just who is he? And how did his journey to greatness begin? What makes his everlasting legacy fashion house still the epitome of style. Discover the man behind the style with me. The little black dress is the hardest thing to realise because you must keep it simple Hubert Givenchy, Independent Interview in

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How to Dress Vintage – 10 tips for your vintage look

You know when you love something so much that the idea of actually doing it makes you worry? I think we’ve all been there to be honest, and I am no stranger to feeling anxious about what people think. I had always loved the wartime and post-war styles of the 40s, 50s and early 60s. However I never really had to confidence to even try dressing that way. Many people feel the same, and this

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