One of the disadvantages to wearing vintage is the likely side affect of looking over dressed. In today’s world many people see wearing a dress to be formal, so how can we avoid looking to formal while still wearing vintage? While it isn’t easy, there are steps you can take!
1. Lengths, Necklines, And Details
Whether you’re wearing a skirt or a dress the length matters! Obviously you don’t want to go to short but how long is too long? In general I would consider knee length to be the perfect casual length, any longer and you run the risk of looking a little to dressed up or Amish. While both of those things are perfectly fine, the point of today’s post is to avoid them.
Necklines can make or break a dress; they can bring it all to the table or ruin your evening meeting. Generally you won’t want anything to low or fancy but nothing to high and strict either, actually I wouldn’t say anything high up at all! A couple great choices include notched keyhole, shawl collars, u-shaped, and the wing collar!
Details, details, details! With so many options it can be a confusing process to determine what will work best for certain environments. In terms of patterns always keep it muted, nothing to bright, crazy, or contrasting. A great choice would be soft stripes or checks. Sweaters should be plain with no patterns but can be a great way to keep your look more casual! A nice purple sweater could help tone down a more formal looking black dress for example.
2. Accessories
First things first, super long dangly earrings are probably a no go. Sorry ladies! While big chunky jewelry is almost always a no-go, small colorful jewelry is a great compromise! Picking blue earring instead of plain white diamonds or a necklace with a small, cute charm. If you absolutely, positively cannot live without at least one big piece of jewelry I would opt for a larger cute brooch.
The purse you choose can also help to lighten the mood! Something soft colored and small such as a basket purse could be a great idea! Of course keep practicality in mind and remember what you’ll need it for.
3. Finishing Touches
While not a part of your outfit, makeup can largely influence the vibe of your look. For work go for a light but well put together look. If you’re wearing eyeliner a simple cat eye should be your go to. For lipstick, while not required, consider opting for a stain instead of a signature bright red. Going with a more dewy foundation can also aid to give you a fresher look without taking away from your overall tidiness.
Lastly are shoes and leggings! Depending on the physical demands of your job the type of shoe best suited will definitely change. If you work in a more physically lax environment flats, low heels, or oxfords are perfect for a more casual look. If you work in a more taxing field where you’re on your feet often, loafers or even modern black slip on shoes would work. Leggings/nylons are optional but in the case you do wear them a simple sheer or black set would look best!
Grandmas Inspiration 