As every CF girl knows, fashion is cyclical – everything old will someday become new again. So the recent resurgence of vintage pin up-inspired fashion should come as no surprise. Aided by throwback TV shows like Mad Men and Pan Am and recent movies like My Week With Marilyn, the flirty, feminine silhouettes of the ’50s and ’60s are back in a big way. And with spring finally here, it’s the perfect time try this playful look yourself.
Below, I have created three spring and summer looks inspired by the retro pin-up girl aesthetic to get your inspiration going. And feel free to mix and match different pieces from each outfit – they all mesh very well together.
Vintage Pin-Up Girl Style 101
The vintage pin-up girl look is flirty, feminine, and a little bit coy… but not in-your-face sexy. It’s about showing off your shape with body-conscious pieces that fit and flatter, without showing tons of skin. Most of all, this look is about confidence, so dress up and have fun with it!
Retro Pin-Up Style Essentials:
- Wedges of all heights
- High-waisted shorts
- Pastel and/or polka dot cardigans
- Knotted button-up shirts
- Oversized sunglasses
- Flirty, vintage-inspired swimwear
- Bow hair clips
Pin-Up Makeup & Hair
If you want to go all out, why not pair your look with retro-inspired hair and makeup? From winged cat eyes to bright red lips, there’s sure to be a pin up-inspired beauty look that fits your personality. Here are a few suggestions for YouTube tutorials to watch:
Outfit 1:
Shorts, Cardigan, Shoes, Glasses, Hair Bows
This first look is a great way to wear this trend for spring. Find a pastel cardigan with a waist-cinching belt and pair it with some high-waisted shorts to get that ultimate pin up look. Then accessorize with whimsical heart glasses, little hair bows, and awesome wedges.
Outfit 2:
Capris, Top, Cardigan, Wedges, Headband, Ring
This next look is something that can be carried into any season when you are looking for an outfit to brighten your mood! Here, I went with some black capris (black skinnies would work, too), a white lacy top, and a red cardigan that ties at the waist to create curves. Add some yellow wedges for a pop of color and finish with a leopard headband for a touch of sass.
Outfit 3:
Swimsuit, Cover-up dress, Bag, Wedges, Hat, Sunglasses
This last look incorporates the retro swimwear trend and is perfect for going to the beach or laying by the pool. Find a polka dot swimsuit and some wedges to start off your look. Then add some perfectly ’50s white sunglasses, a striped beach bag, and a floppy hat to shield you from the sun. All of these pieces give off the girly pin up vibe we’re aiming for.
What do you think?
I hope you guys enjoyed these outfits. Remember to play with different prints, pastel colors, and high-waisted shorts and you should be able to create a pin up look that you’ll be happy to wear when the sun comes out to play!
Now I want to hear from you – are you loving the retro pin-up look? Would you wear these outfits? Which one is your favorite? Please post your comments below and let me know which looks you are dying to try this summer!
I love the pin up looks:) I was totally born in the wrong era…
It’s really easy to DIY high waisted shorts if you can find old mom jeans at a Salvation Army or Goodwill. They tend to be unflattering high waisted jeans, but PERFECT once you cut off the legs.
One word: rockabilly.
Tattoos, polka dots, leopard print (everywhere!), sugar skulls… who doesn’t love the 50’s revival?
Ahh pin-up, I always opt for that in a Halloween costume, but I see now how to make that work for casual wear, thanks!
Looooove that bikini!!!!
I really like the pin-up look, but you have to be careful with it because it can turn out costumey.
I love the retro pin up look! I feel like it can be super flattering for girls of all shapes. I recently posted my interpretation of this trend on my blog and had a lot of fun with the look. Great outfits!
Personally, I’m delighted this trend is back . It is the most flattering trend and complements curves beautifully . Lovely looks , you’ve nailed it 🙂
Love it! I work for Guess, which is ALL ABOUT PIN UP LOOK 🙂 not only it’s super sexy but cute and sweet at the same time! And my fav is the outfit n.3 😉 the bikini, the hat and the sunnies especially 🙂
Check out my blog too and see if you get some inspiration 🙂 Thanks 🙂
xoxo
I’ve been waiting on this since I started reading your blog! I’m in love with pin up, the vintage style is lovely. I like how you incorporated nowadays styles into the pin up look.
I love these kinds of tutorials. Have you guys ever thought of doing a Friends (t.v. show) fashion inspiration article?
Paige, wonderful post about the pin up style! Especially love the outfit selections you put together…And yes I agree 100% that Mad Men has definately helped keep vintage inspired fashion alive and thriving, and perhaps, the show will see the style staying strong into the forseeable future as well? Also, if any girls are interested where to find the lingerie worn in My Week With Marilyn, we’d be happy to point you in the right direction.
Great selection of outfits for the modern pin up girl!
love it and all the tutoriouls, cant get any better than this!!!
I love this. Pin up style is my favorite. It shows off women’s curves in flattering ways. I absolutely love that bikini. Great post.