Now that summer has finally graced us with her presence after a rocky spring (for those of us in Western Canada anyway), it’s time to liven up the summer wardrobe with some vintage inspiration. Fashion has been taking a cue from most decades of the second half of the 20th and even into the early years of the 21st century (some styles we were hoping we would never see again). Whatever summer vintage you’ve got in your closet is sure to work, whether it’s from the grungy 90s or the flowery 60s and 70s. Here are some of my summer vintage finds for the season.
Going all in for the 70s
I went all in for a 70s look with this outfit, though my confession is that the blouse was actually purchased in the 60s. However, peasant blouses were still popular in the 70s. The blouse was purchased by my great-grandmother in Switzerland as a gift for my mother. The belt is vintage and belonged to my grandmother, but I don’t know much else about it. The shorts are modern from Urban Outfitters, but with the high waist and short length, I can imagine them being worn on the 70s sitcom Three’s Company. Finally, I’ve paired them with my favourite red wedge espadrilles from Casa Hernanz in Madrid. Espadrilles are very in right now, and if you want to see more styles check out my post.
Boho Chic Never Gets Old
This matching top and skirt also date back to the 70s and give off a bohemian vibe. While on holidays, my mother purchased the outfit on Vancouver Island, but the ensemble was made in India. I’ve matched the outfit with my red espadrilles again, but flat sandals can make it even more casual for a summer’s day. Long, comfortable, boho skirts are in and can easily be paired with a simple t-shirt.
The Masculine Side of Things
As much as I love dresses and skirts, they aren’t practical for all activities in the summer. These modern culottes are a favourite of mine, purchased at Pull & Bear in Spain. They have the feel of a skirt and are very comfortable, but they stay put on a windy day and are not a tripping hazard getting on and off buses and trains. For a more masculine feel, I’ve worn them with a vintage leather vest that belonged to my grandmother and was also worn by my mother in the 60s. The safari hat I purchased in London at Christys’. The t-shirt was a recent Costco find, and the necklace belonged to my great-grandmother. The shoes are vintage inspired with a modern twist – nautical print. I bought them in Florence, Italy from a Spanish brand called Camper.
Swiss Miss
The belt is the only vintage item included in this outfit, but it is such a stunning piece that it stands alone. The belt was purchased by my great-grandmother in Switzerland in 1961, and since belting dresses is back in, I decided to take advantage. It makes a great focal point on a monochrome outfit, but really can go with a variety of styles. Mixing and matching of prints is also in, so the options are endless. I ordered the dress from Asos while living in Spain, and after countless exchanges and missed deliveries (I think I ordered it eight times), I did end up with the dress, but I also learned that delivery trucks don’t like going to isolated mountains (who knew?). Of course, I’ve worn my red espadrilles again; they really go with everything!
Florals are Always a Good Idea
Taking a cue from mother nature, florals are great for summer. My mother made this matching skirt and top set. She used antique lace to trim the skirt. The halter top and flowy skirt harken back to 70s summer styles. Since the print has quite a bit of pink, I’ve matched the outfit with a pink Cole Haan wedge sandal.
Post-Covid Big Dresses
My friend told me about a month ago that the big post-covid fashion trend was going to be big dresses. Any excuse to wear something both comfortable and over the top is a good excuse in my books. I very recently received this dress and though it dates back to 1975, I could have purchased it yesterday. With puffed sleeves making a comeback and peasant dresses in style again, I could not have been more pleased with this vintage treasure. What makes it even more of a gem is that this was the bridesmaid’s dress from my mother’s wedding. We stopped for a patio coffee at the home of my mom’s bridesmaid and she surprised me with the dress! We made a few alterations and I added a 30s belt from my grandmother to give the dress a more casual feel, but this big dress really speaks for itself. For more vintage wedding fashion, check out my post.
I wish you all a wonderful summer and hope you got some summer vintage inspiration from this post. See below for Miss Destiny’s summery look!
So beautiful it made me cry! Great post!
Glad you liked it! Thank you for the wonderful gift!!
I am DYING. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE. These are so beautiful. I can’t stand it.
Love this comment, thanks!!
Thank-you! Wonderful inspirations, especially when I took a side trip to your vintage wedding post. How great that you still have all these wonderful family treasures. What’s up next?
Maybe accessories? I guess we’ll have to see!