How to Build a Vintage Wardrobe from Nothing
When you have almost nothing in your wardrobe, is it possible to build up several stylish vintage outfits with just a few key purchases? We think so. Although some people might stock up on a wide range of items from pants to shorts to sweaters, it’s perfectly alright to start out with some basics. Here are a few key purchases you can make to create a fashionable vintage wardrobe—even if you’re starting from nothing.
Pants: The Key to a Vintage Look
In construction terms, the foundation starts at the bottom. It’s the same with the wardrobe. Your pants will help determine just how many outfits you can pull out—not to mention how comfortable you feel on a day-to-day basis.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Stretch Twill Pants. These are your go-to, versatile, can-wear-anywhere pants. Try a versatile color like Dark Denim to ensure that you have plenty of potential outfit pairings.
- Classic Vintage Twill Shorts: These are essentially the same idea—except for the world of hot weather and summer vacations. Go with a versatile color like British Tan so you can be confident in a range of outfits.
- Stretch Corduroy: We haven’t forgotten the cold-weather seasons! Go with Fatigue to put together a great winter or fall look while enjoying the comfortable material.
There are lots of other fun options from short shorts to Madras shorts here at Vintage 1946, but these three basics will give you a major head start on your next wardrobe.
Shirts: Pulling the Vintage Look Together
Once you have your pants and bottoms sorted out, it’s time to pair them with something. For a basic outfit, you don’t have to go much further than a nice pair of pants along with a casual button-up. Here’s what you’ll need when it comes to vintage shirts:
- Long-Sleeve Oxfords. This Suede Oxford Shirt in Blue is a great example of a shirt that can pull multiple outfits together. Long sleeves are a great choice if you’re not sure what to get, as you can always roll them up in hot weather—or even stack them with other layers when it’s really cold outside.
- Short-Sleeve Oxfords. If you want something just as casual that suits you better in Spring and Summer, go with this Summer Oxford Short Sleeve shirt. You don’t have to put it away for winter, either, as it can easily layer with other items.
- Sweaters. Nothing adds depth and dimension to an outfit like a good sweater. Try a cardigan like this Block Knit Cardigan in Blue Graphite to bring texture to your next outfit.
More From Vintage 1946
A great vintage wardrobe doesn’t have to include a hundred different items. Sometimes, it’s possible to put together a wide range of outfits on the basics. Keep browsing the shop here at Vintage 1946 to find the colors that suit your taste the best, and soon you’ll be able to create a vintage wardrobe all your own.