Your Friendly Vintage Fashion Blog
Who said brooches were just for your nan? From sparkling 1950s cardigans to brooch covered blazers and unexpected modern styling, discover how to give these little vintage treasures a new lease of life. … Continue readingHow to Wear a Vintage Brooch Without Looking Like Your Nan — Unless That’s the Point
From 1940s tailoring to 1970s knits, here’s how to dress for Bonfire Night without freezing your vintage loving socks off. … Continue readingVintage Bonfire Night Style: Practical and Still Rather Fabulous
From practical 1940s jumpers and elegant 1950s twinsets to colourful 1970s crochet and oversized 1980s sweaters, discover how women wore vintage knitwear through the decades. … Continue readingWhat They Wore: Vintage Knitwear Throughout the Decade
Poetcore might be one of 2026’s biggest fashion trends, but its blazers, loafers, roll necks and tweed have decidedly vintage roots. Here’s how to wear it properly. … Continue readingPoetcore Is Just Vintage Autumn Dressing: Here’s How to Do It Properly
From cake mascara to supermodel slogans, Maybelline helped shape what everyday beauty looked like for generations. Here’s the story of how one small American brand became a global makeup name. … Continue readingThe History of Maybelline
Discover the history of the trench coat in women’s fashion, from military beginnings to Hollywood glamour and modern style. Learn why this iconic coat still matters today. … Continue readingThe History of the Trench Coat: From Wartime Utility to Women’s Fashion Icon
Meet Hattie Carnegie, the New York fashion entrepreneur who helped define American ready to wear, mentored iconic designers, and dressed modern women from the 1920s to the 1950s. … Continue readingHattie Carnegie: The Seventh Avenue powerhouse who shaped American fashion
Discover Beatnik history and 1950s Beat style. Learn what Beatniks wore, plus modern hair, makeup, outfits and accessories to recreate the look today. … Continue readingBeatniks and What They Wore
Discover charming vintage hobbies from the 1930s to the 1970s. Explore old fashioned pastimes and learn how to try these vintage inspired hobbies in your modern home. … Continue readingVintage hobbies by decade
Discover the life and legacy of Norman Hartnell, royal fashion designer to Queen Elizabeth II and a pioneer of mid-century glamour. From Mayfair salons to coronation gowns, explore his story. … Continue readingSir Norman Hartnell: The Crown’s Couturier and a Legacy Sewn in Silk
Step through beauty history with Oh So Delightful’s guide to vintage lipstick trends. Discover how lipstick evolved from 1920s flapper reds to 1970s disco gloss — and learn how to recreate each timeless look today. … Continue readingLipstick trends from the 1920s to the 1970s
The 1950s were an age of glamour, leisure, and carefully curated style. Post-war optimism filled the decade with energy, and a night out wasn’t just about where you went, but how you looked doing it. From dinner dances to cinema dates, women dressed with a sense of elegance that made even the simplest evening feel special. Dinner and Dancing A popular way to spend an evening in the early and mid-1950s was to dine at
Few actresses defined Hollywood glamour like Lana Turner. Rising to fame in the late 1930s and dazzling audiences throughout the 1940s and 1950s, she was one of MGM’s brightest stars. Her polished style, flawless hair and sultry screen presence made her an icon whose influence is still felt in red carpet looks today. Key Fashion Elements Lana Turner’s fashion was all about elegance and allure. She balanced red carpet drama with everyday chic, always maintaining
Vintage beauty tools are having a moment, and we can see why. They’re timeless, effective, and let’s be honest – a little nostalgic. Whether you’re building your vintage vanity or just want to try out some old-school beauty gadgets, this guide covers vintage beauty tools you can still buy today, and more importantly how to use them. Cold Cream Cold cream has been a beauty essential since the days of silent movie stars. Think of
Continue readingVintage Beauty Tools you can still Buy Today (and how to use them!)
From Scandal to Style Icon Few garments carry as much cultural weight as the bikini. Tiny, bold, and endlessly debated, it’s an item of clothing that tells the story of changing attitudes towards fashion, freedom, and the female body. The bikini is a fashion staple now, but its history is anything but simple. Ancient Roots The concept of a two-piece swimsuit isn’t modern at all. In fact, mosaics from Ancient Rome, dating back to around
The 1950s is remembered as a glamorous decade full of swishing skirts, nipped waists and chic tailoring. After the austerity of the 1940s, fashion embraced femininity and opulence, celebrating domestic life and dazzling social occasions. But when you’re browsing a vintage boutique or an online listing, how can you tell if a garment is truly from the 1950s? Here’s a simple guide to help you identify authentic 1950s clothing. Look at the Silhouette The overall
Continue readingVintage Tips: How to identify 1950s clothing
There’s something a little bit magical about mascara. One swipe and your lashes go from barely there to bold and fluttery. It’s a beauty staple now, but mascara has taken a long, inky journey through history filled with soot, spit, cake compacts, and Hollywood glamour. Ancient Origins: Kohl and the Eyes of Horus Long before Maybelline hit cosmetic counter shelves, ancient Egyptians were painting their lashes with kohl, a dark mixture of soot, galena, and
Born Marquis di Barsento on November 20, 1914 in Naples into one of Florence’s most ancient families, Pucci could’ve lived a life of privilege and repose. Instead, adventure called. He turned his hand to skiing, politics, and eventually fashion. He studied in Milan, spent time at Reed College in Oregon (where he even formed their first ski team!), and flew bombers for Italy in World War II. A man of many hats, including politician (Italian Chamber of Deputies,
Continue readingCapri, Colour and Couture: The Rise of Emilio Pucci
When we think about the icons of American beauty, Revlon is right there at the top. It wasn’t just a brand that followed trends—it created them. From the glamour of the 1930s to the bold experimentation of the 1970s, Revlon helped define what beauty meant in every era it touched. Here’s how this powerhouse brand transformed the industry over four unforgettable decades. The 1930s: A Revolution in Nail Colour In 1932, Revlon entered the scene
Learn how to build a vintage capsule wardrobe with versatile pieces you’ll actually wear, plus tips on colour, fit, accessories and mixing vintage with modern. … Continue readingHow to Build a Vintage Capsule Wardobe You’ll Actually Wear
The 1950s weren’t just about full skirts and red lipstick. Beneath the surface of post-war conformity, new subcultures bubbled up, each with its own distinctive style, attitude, and take on femininity. From rebellious rockabillies to ultra-feminine sweater girls, these looks told stories – of freedom, of resistance, of glamour, of change. Let’s take a peek at some of the key subcultures that defined 1950s style for women. Rockabilly Rebels Born from the rock ‘m’ roll
Edith Head, a name always associated with Hollywood glamour, was a trailblazing costume designer whose influence spanned over five decades. With her signature round glasses and impeccable style, she not only dressed the stars but became one herself. Her journey from a modest upbringing to becoming the most celebrated costume designer in film history is both inspiring and fascinating. Early Life and Education Born Edith Clare Posener on October 28th, 1897 in San Bernardino, California,
Discover vintage manicure styles and nail polish colours from the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s. … Continue readingVintage Manicure Styles and Nail Polish of the 1920s, 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s.
Discover timeless vintage beauty hacks from the 40s – 60s, including classic red lips, pin curls and DIY beauty treatments. … Continue readingBest Vintage Beauty Hacks: Timeless Tricks from the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s.
Vintage hair and beauty never goes out of style.Whether it’s the soft waves of the 1940s, the glamorous perfection of the 1950s, or the bold mod looks of the 1960s, each decade brings its own unique aspects to makeup and hairstyling. If you want to recreate the elegance of old Hollywood, the flirtations appeal of a 50s bombshell, or the daring innovation of the 60s, you’re in the right place. The 1940s – Wartime Elegance
Continue readingVintage hair and beauty – key looks of the 40s, 50s, and 60s.
Brigitte Bardot, a 20th-century style icon, revolutionized fashion with her playful yet sexy looks, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. Known for popularizing the off-shoulder neckline, gingham dresses, and casual-chic outfits like capri pants, her timeless aesthetic remains influential. Bardot’s styling emphasizes confidence and effortless beauty, inspiring modern fashion. … Continue readingGet the Look – Brigitte Bardot
Jacques Fath was a notable French designer known for his impact on haute couture after World War II. Born in 1912, he began his fashion career in 1937 and gained fame for his innovative designs and contributions to the “New Look.” Despite early struggles, Fath became a pivotal figure, mentoring future designers before his death in 1954. … Continue readingFashion History – Jacques Fath
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
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
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
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
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
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
From beautiful wool coats to everyday knitwear, discover how women really dressed for winter in the 1950s, with practical style ideas for today. … Continue reading1950s Winter Fashion: What Women Really Wore to Keep Warm
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
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
Continue readingFashion History – Icons, Trendsetters and Designers – 1950s
Platinum blonde curls, figure hugging dresses and a personality the British press couldn’t resist. Diana Dors became one of the most recognisable stars of the 1950s, but her life and career reveal far more than her glamorous reputation suggests. … Continue readingDiana Dors: The Life and Style of Britain’s Blonde Bombshell
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
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
From swishy circle skirts to smart pencil dresses and cosy twinsets, discover how to wear 1950s fashion today with five easy outfit ideas and a little help from the UK high street. … Continue readingHow to wear 1950s Fashion Today: High Street Style and Outfit Ideas
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
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,
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
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
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
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
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
When you think of the 1950s, you automatically think of Hollywood glamour. At this time, stars like Marilyn Monroe, Jane Russell, and Lana Turner had the ideal body type: big breasts, big hips, and a small waist—the hourglass figure. If you didn’t have them naturally, you could use 1950s lingerie and shapewear to help you achieve the ideal body. The hourglass silhouette of the 1950s happened thanks to the lingerie of the decade. To get
Continue readingWhat they wore – 1950s Lingerie and Shapewear
Grace Kelly is without a doubt the epitome of elegance and if you were to look up the word in a dictionary you would be sure to see her name in the definition. The actress, who was known for films like Hitchcock’s Rear Window, became Princess of Monaco upon her marriage to Prince Rainer III in 1956. Her style was more than befitting of her royal title and is still inspirational for those who want
When you think of the fairytale vintage wedding, it’s likely that you think of Grace Kelly and her romantic love story with Prince Rainer III of Monaco. In fact, not only did she look like a Princess that day, she actually became one too. Grace Kelly is someone many want to emulate, and her classic and classy wedding gown is to die for. Did you know that she had two wedding gowns? Read on for
The 1950s were a golden era for bridal fashion, marked by elegance, innovation, and a touch of Hollywood glamour. Brides embraced styles that combined traditional modesty with contemporary flair, resulting in wedding attire that remains iconic to this day. Early 1950s: Structured Elegance In the early 50s, wedding gowns featured sweetheart necklines, cinched waists, and full skirts, creating a classic princess silhouette. Fabrics like silk and Duchesse satins provided a smooth, shiny finish, while handmade
There’s something magical about summer in the 1950s. The decade was alive with optimism, glamour, and a sense of fun – and fashion reflected that. After the rationing and practicality of the 1940s, the post-war boom brought a burst of colour, fabric, and fabulous new trends. Gone was the “make do and mend” attitude. In its place? Bold dresses, playful prints, and coordinated accessories that screamed style. Women drew inspiration from Hollywood starlets, glossy magazines,
Born in 1895 to his fisherman father and seamstress mother in Getaria the province of Gipizkoa in the Basque Country of Spain Cristóbal Balenciaga had a reputation as a couturier of uncompromising standards and was referred to as “the master of us all” by none other than Christian Dior. Dressmaking and clothing design was in his blood, and as a child Balenciaga often spent time with his mother as she worked. At the age of
These days fashion houses marketing and creation other products such as cosmetics and perfumes may not be unusual, but Pierre Cardin started this practice, and was widely criticised for it. Many thought that this was weakening his brand, but the sheer strength of his logo and name ensured this was a rousing success. History of Pierre Cardin Born in Venice, Italy in 1922 his parents were wealthy landowners that fled to France to escape the
1950s spring style is one of my favourites, pretty pastels, beautiful florals and rain macs are a great way to stay warm and stylish. All of a sudden it seems that the world has awoken from its winter slumber and spring is here. And I love it! It’s always difficult for me to decide what to wear in Springtime, mainly because the threat of rain is always on the horizon here in the UK. I
The 1950s housewife would run the home, look after her family and look good whilst doing it. Learn how you can get the look of these iconic women. … Continue readingWhat they Wore – The 1950s Housewife
Hello lovely, Today we’re stepping into the glossy, controversial, completely unforgettable world of Bettie Page, the 1950s pin up who became an underground icon and later, a full blown pop culture legend. She’s often called the Queen of Pinups, and once you’ve seen that famous fringe, those bright eyes, and the bold, playful confidence she carried into every frame, you get it. And yet, her story isn’t just glamour, it’s grit too. Who was Bettie
When people think of 1950s British youth subcultures, the Teddy Boys often steal the spotlight. But alongside them was an equally stylish and rebellious group – the Teddy Girls or Judies, as they were sometimes called. These young women carved out a bold, distinctive style that blended Edwardian fashion with contemporary elements, creating a look that was tough and elegant. Despite being largely overlooked in historical discussion of subcultures, the Teddy Girls played a significant
We explore the Preppy style of the 1950s, drawing inspiration from films like Grease. It highlights the clean and wholesome appearance of “preppies,” characterized by pastel colors, full skirts, and neat grooming. Teenage girls favored items like poodle skirts and saddle shoes while maintaining classic hairstyles, promoted by icons such as Lucille Ball. … Continue readingWhat they Wore – Teenagers – 1950s Preppy
Find out the historical context of fashion post-World War II, highlighting Christian Dior’s 1947 “New Look” collection. This marked a shift from wartime austerity to a more voluminous silhouette, characterized by curvaceous lines and luxurious fabrics. Dior’s innovative designs revitalized women’s fashion and reestablished Paris as a fashion capital. … Continue readingFashion History – Christian Dior