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The obsession with the vintage style amongst the younger generation seems puzzling. We live in a time where ‘newer is better’, but in the fashion industry this is clearly not the case as the older styles continue to make comebacks. The latest rush of the vintage trend proves that unlike technology, fashion doesn’t have to be new to make it the most desirable.

If you’re more of a modern-dresser, you might wonder why vintage-wearers would want to look so out dated rather than dressing smart and chic. While everyone doesn’t enjoy the vintage trend, it’s worth knowing what the inspirations for the craze are. Each outfit holds historical implications, which can be considered when you see the next young girl in a embroidered chiffon dress.

Usually referring to 1920’s inspired fashion, the term ‘vintage’ is also used to describe anything old until the 1980’s. It’s not to be confused with grunge, which refers to the 1990’s trend of oversized sweaters and flannel shirts; although there are similarities between the styles. They can both be found at second hand shops at more economical prices. Additionally, wearing clothes from another era has been effected by nostalgia as it can be seen as an escape from every day stresses. However, there is one considerable difference between the recent vintage and grunge trends: grunge-dressers will possibly remember wearing the style once before in the 1990’s, but the vintage-dressers most probably weren’t around in the 1920’s for the first vintage trend. One celebrates youth, and the other celebrates historical pride.

The 1920’s vintage style represents a time where there was indulgence, rapid economical growth and change when the First World War was finally over. This was a peaceful period between the wars when people had days of prosperity and fun. The Modernist Movement took shape and the urban environments blossomed and there was cultural excitement when artists and musicians bloomed in new ways.

The main reason why women have returned to the style is because it speaks for a time where women gained new rights and roles in society. This was a revolutionary decade for women as they were finally given the same political rights as men. Women could then wear what was considered ‘rebellious attire’ with haircuts that weren’t traditionally acceptable. 

This period has proved that it is not irrelevant or forgotten; it is however greatly respected. There is no better way to keep this significant decade alive that through the art of fashion – a stylish and classy way to do so.