I have rule around here about never wearing vintage too literally when it’s a style that YOU wore in its first fashion outing as it seriously dates you… in other words, makes you look o-l-d.
So if you watched I Love Lucy in anything other than a rerun, skip this look.
But for the rest of us, why not try a midi-length, flippy & full 50’s inspired skirt for some summer dash?
It looks great as an airy summer dress or for a big night out. And you know I’ve been loving this look for awhile.— S.H.
Cannes Do Chic: After seasons of body-con & micro-mini’s, the Red Carpet at Cannes is proof of why you should try a full 50’s inspired skirt like those styles on the runways with our how to wear the look style tips.
Last summer, Rochas tipped us onto the return of mid-century fashion with Grace Kelly worthy 50’s inspired full circle skirts, that we think you should try for yourself.
One look at actress Élodie Navarre in Prada’s elegantly off-kilter and purposefully disheveled gingham dress (above), should be enough to get you in gear for one of the year’s biggest trends- the full 50’s skirt.
>>MORE: Cannes Do Chic!
Yes they are back again, and although made a new, we bet you’ve probably got a few options in your closet to dig up for this summer’s soirees and into big fall nights.
>>DISCOVER: From Flippy to Full, New Skirts for Spring to Try Now
What to look for now, and why it works when you want to wear a full 50’s inspired skirt:
- Keep the idea of elegant separate from ladylike. This isn’t about looking precious, it’s about instant chic and full on ease
- A mid-calf length will hit the trends mid-century leaning on the dot, just be sure to wear footwear that will help with your proportion i.e heels for the petite & curvy are almost always a must
- Sorry, platform stilettos will cheapen the look, as they often do to many a look. Cute flats or flatforms are in perfect balance with the longer hemline for day.
- Going for simple will pick up on the seasons minimal take on the era so shy away from prints that aren’t classic and stick to unadorned, uncomplicated colors and fabrics
- Be cautious on how retro you go, if you take the vintage novelty too far, you could look made-up and older too.
- No crinolines please, the volume should be languid and soft
- Unlike its shorter flippy skirt sister, this length does not work with black tights.
- The longer, midi length is great for those hesitant to show too much bare leg– be sure the hemline does not break at the widest part of your calf to maintain a slim silhouette
Of the looks featured here, Jasmine Trinca’s black Miu Miu ensemble, above, has the most retro flair, at once channeling the likes of Audrey Hepburn and other 50’s starlets.
It works though, without looking even a bit costume-y thanks to little updates. Her skirts pockets for starters, suggest a practicality that’s a must for today. Take note of its silhouette too as it has just the right proportion not too full, not too limp. And of the gals here, her pieces flattering on anyone silhouette is a prime example of why you should try a full 50’s inspired skirt.
Printed with waves of vivid blooms, Naomi Watts’ strapless Dolce & Gabbana frock bids adieu to 50’s nostalgia in stark black. Though not quite a full-skirted number, it does make a case for going simple and ultra girly but with a contemporary edge. By forgoing statement making accessories, she looks all the more graceful and inspiring.
>> MORE: How to Wear It posts
What makes French bombshell Ludivine Sagnier’s Chanel Couture strapless dress look so modern is its louche sensibility and modern pairing of dark blue and black. Made of lace and restrained, an unadorned surface and simple, fluid lines give it a flattering proportion and most notable, an accessible appeal.
But take caution as this is a style with the petite in mind as curves will unfortunately alter the modern fit and age you. Otherwise, think of looking for summer day dresses with a similar silhouette as this style offers instant chic that’s hard to beat.
>> CLICK on some of these full skirts for more inspiration… they are priced from very to affordable…
What do you think about this skirt style? Are you planning on adding a full 50’s inspired skirt to your wardrobe now? Please share in the comments below.– Naveeed Hussain
Photos: PRPhotos, fos.onsugar, and via