Fashion: Retro Americana

Published on 11/06/2012 12:00

Retro Americana was all the rage with fashion’s big hitters this season. So it is only fitting that the girls of Auld Reekie get their glam on and try the trend out.

A modern twist has been placed on the classic affluent 1950s dress code that was all about being super glossy at its core.

Dare to bare your midriff a la Prada. Tiny bandeaux tops were placed with skinny printed pencil skirts. Don’t panic at the thought of partaking in Prada’s vision. This look is all about a hint of mid-section, designed to show off the smallest part of your waist. Belly buttons should be banished as skirts skim and suck in the bottom half of your tummy.

Go for gingham like Jil Sanders showcased. This print lends itself perfectly to a laid-back look. Team it with shorts in a similar shade when the sun comes out.

Quirky prints are a fun way of adapting the look to what is around this season, be that in your own wardrobe or out on the high street. Opt for frocks that have a bit of personality, there are a ton of tea dresses with flirty fruit and veg prints to be found right now. Pair that with Prada’s must-have flame motif bag or heel and you are on to a winner.

Pay attention to hair and make-up. Keep lips red and vampy. American girls of this era were seriously manicured and that attention to detail was apparent during the showing of collections at fashion week. So keep the whole look groomed from head to hoof.

The only contradictory clash between old and new is texture. Classic Americana dressing was about matching, and some collections showed tiny bandeaux tops in the same material as skirts. But that doesn’t mean you have to stick to the rules. Popping a plain top underneath a brighter boxy blazer gives the same effect while covering up.

As for accessories, head for the holy trinity: handbag, sunglasses and necklace. For bags make sure they are as much of a statement as your outfit. Leathers should be super shiny, think freshly buffed Cadillac for inspiration.

Sun specs should curl up into perfect cat’s eye shape to be bang on trend but if that doesn’t agree with your face shape find a large pair of statement glasses instead.

That leaves jewellery. Go for vintage or vintage-inspired pieces like Tippi and Grace’s collection. Bold beads sculpted elegantly around the neck are offset beautifully with shimmering crystal brooches for an extra touch of glamour. Adding a piece like this finishes the look off perfectly.