Vintage Couture

I love the current autumn / winter 2010 vintage trend. You can look both elegant, chic and trendy all at the same time.
The key elements needed to wear vintage are: floral, lace, paisley, polka dots, checkers, bows and ribbons, fringes, headbands worn in a hippie style, ruffles, pleats, tops / sweaters with flared arms, capes, high waist, anything that your grandma or grandpa used to wear!

Must accessories to add are: large brooches, trinket, lockets in a long chain, distressed leather belts and floral scarves.

THE VINTAGE LOOK:
Capes, caplets, cloaks, shawls: Adds instant elegance, and works cleverly with Gothic rock-chic looks. Vintage fur-trimmed are the pinnacle of elegance. There are some quirky, flirty, clown-inspired frills on the neck capes - but personally I'd rather keep well away from them!
Chunky knits: There's chunky knits and there's super-chuncky knits. To achieve the cosy vintage look - you will need either a chunky cardigan, a chunky street-style scarfs or a gorgeous jumper dress. Of course never do the mistake of wearing them all at once - otherwise you'll look like a giant woolen sheep! Add a belt if you want to nip in at the waist and wear with some comfy denim jeans.
Tights and stockings: I don't think those sheer fabric tights will ever go out of fashion. You can experiment with colours and and create you own personalised look. You can wear bright colours like blue, purple, navy, red to dress more quirky 70's vintage, or wear either black or cream/nude for a more subtle vintage look. Finally if your brave and can carry off the complete look - then opt for those 'lines down the back of you legs tights' for that je ne sais quoi.

See-though clothing: Subtle sheer fabrics like chiffon and lace allow some peek-a-boo but don't call out 'look-at-me' is a must. Delicate drapes adds texture, layering, movement and femininity. Lace gives the illusion of elegance and mystery.

Military fashion infusion: With pointed, pleated shoulder design and exceptional tailored design - no wonder the military look is still going strong. I think its an great idea to fuse vintage with military inspired band jacket à la Micheal Jackson.

The female dandy: A step up from the tuxedo and military fashion. Rooted from Great Britain's regency era. It screams elite, high status and wealth. Wear high collars, ruffles and bows blouses, cropped slim-cut jackets, waistcoats, tailored vest, frock coats, cliched waist and large brooches for added impact.

Remember pick one vintage item at a time - and let it be your centre piece. If wearing a boho dress - keep accessories simple. Plain jewellery and a leather bag. Add a modern twist by teaming with a plain belt, skinny jeans, plain cardigan and gladiators shoes or normal shoes.

...One day we'll all be Vintage! :)