Vintage clothing holds a timeless appeal, offering edgy, fashion-forward style from the past. And when it comes to vintage jackets from Riaaj Vintage, the possibilities are endless. But styling these retro pieces can sometimes feel like a daunting task. Today, we’ve gathered some simple yet effective tips to help you effortlessly elevate your vintage style. Whether you’re a vintage enthusiast or new to the world of retro fashion, these tips will guide you in mastering the art of styling your jacket with ease. So, let’s learn how to style vintage jackets from Riaaj Vintage and make a statement with your ensemble!
The basics of how to style vintage jackets
Adding vintage clothing like a denim or leather jacket to your wardrobe gives you a distinctive, fashion-forward look. It’s versatile enough to be worn as you tour a new city on holiday as well as on a first date. The key to styling it well is to mix and match styles from different eras, colours and textures. If your jacket has a unique feature or texture, embrace it and make it the focal point of your outfit. Pay attention to how the silhouette complements your figure and how well it fits you.
And lastly, one of the most important vintage classic coat styling tips – don’t be afraid to accessorise. It’s the small details like sunglasses with a retro flair, a belt to cinch the waist, a vintage-style hat or a classic handbag that will make your look stand out.
Utility-driven vintage jacket outfit ideas
When you’re looking at jackets from the 70s, 80s, or 90s, one that seems to bind the styles together is the focus on worker jackets. The jackets are marked by design detailing, making them well-suited for outdoor work. The materials are long-lasting and durable with no risk of getting snagged on twigs. They are also weather resistant, and the jackets have no shortage of pockets. This Carhartt Vintage Jacket is the perfect example. They’re rugged and refined at the same time. So, styling this jacket is all about being nonchalant and cool.
Slip it on over a tee shirt or get that layered look with the jacket layered over a casual button-down shirt and a tee peeking out under the collar. Sneakers and low-top boots are the perfect choice for footwear.
Hoodies for a cool look
Hoodies first appeared on the fashion scene in the 1970s and have been a staple ever since. Over time, they have been associated with various design movements, such as hip-hop, punk, and skater culture. The jacket was born from the simple need to stay warm through cold winters and while working in cold storage units. The Vintage X Carhartt Men’s Duck Insulated Active Jacket is one of today’s most popular vintage jackets with a hood design.
When styling it, first note the details that make it stand out, like the ribbed cuffs and the kangaroo pockets. This is a short jacket, so it pairs well with high-waisted jeans or casual trousers. Vintage tees layered under the jacket would look edgy, as would a checked flannel shirt. Complete the look with ankle-high boots, a pair of sunglasses, and a chunky watch.
Denim retro outerwear fashion
The late 1900s saw denim takeover fashion on the streets and the runways. Denim jackets epitomise the laid-back, cool aesthetic and the need to express one’s identity. When it comes to vintage denim jackets, details like distressed cuffs and embroidered patches make the outfit stand out. These jackets are versatile and often considered a wardrobe staple.
Vintage denim jackets tend to be a little more voluminous as compared to their modern-day counterparts. So, a good way to style them is by layering them over a fitted top. Pair it with a short pencil skirt to balance the visual weight and a pair of pumps for a chic date night look. Men can wear denim jackets with chinos and a loose-fitting shirt. If you’re thinking of a top-to-toe denim look, leave your jacket unbuttoned over a colour-contrasting top.
A denim jacket like the Harley Davidson jacket with a buttoned henley collar is perfect for autumn. Since it doesn’t have a collar, you can layer it over a hoodie. Or, slip it on over a checked shirt and chinos styled with sneakers and a baseball cap.
Cool puffer jacket styles
You might not know this, but puffer jackets date back to the 1920s. Of course, back then they were designed mainly for mountaineers. Puffer jackets, as we know them today, found favour with the fashion world only in the late 1930s. These unisex jackets are characterised by their heavy quilting and voluminous silhouette. The Vintage X The North Face Black 700 Puffer is a popular design in this category.
This jacket is worn in winter when it’s cold outside, so you will not likely leave it unzipped. Hence, the focus is on finding the right bottoms and footwear. Distressed denims are a good choice. Pair them with high-top sneakers for a cool look. Women, you can style your puffer jackets with a pair of leggings, too.
Edgy moto jackets
Biker jackets have always been sought after, offering an edgy and charming vibe. If you’re thinking of how to style vintage jackets, this may be the one that’s fun to play around with. Vintage moto jackets usually have a worn-in, distressed finish, visible zippers, wide collars and a short, close fit. They’re often made out of leather. At other times, they may be valued for the brand insignia. A Harley Davidson biker jacket is on every biker’s shopping list. Given the styling, these jackets look their best when paired with distressed jeans, a half-tucked-in shirt and boots. Accessorise the outfit with a pair of glares to complete it or drape a vibrant, printed scarf to add a splash of colour.
Cosy vintage style coats for a winter look
Fur has been a status symbol since the age of kings and queens. While pure fur jackets are a rarity even in vintage shops, fur-trimmed jackets are much easier to find. They may have fur along the cuffs and collars. Take the Vintage Ellesse Rare Vintage Ski- wear X Jacket – this jacket has a fur-trimmed hood. The natural fur look stands out in stark contrast to the vibrant print on the jacket. When you’re facing dull winter months, a colourful jacket like this is the ideal way to brighten your day.
Since it’s cold, you’re not likely to be wearing the jacket unzipped. A fitted turtleneck is the ideal base layer under this jacket. Pair it with black leggings or a pair of classic blue jeans and white boots. The jacket has a built-in hoodie but feel free to style it as an accent and wear a beanie to keep your ears warm.
Vintage classic coat styling tips
Just as there are dozens of retro clothing (outerwear) fashion types, there is no limit to how to style vintage jackets. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep you looking your best.
- Do make sure the jacket fits you well
- Don’t wear only vintage. Pair your vintage jacket with more modern dresses and trousers.
- Do Focus your look on a single vintage garment and let this be in the spotlight.
- Do feel free to give vintage jackets a mini-makeover with new buttons or a shiny belt
- Do have fun layering your look
- Don’t forget to accessorise!
Keeping up with timeless jacket fashion trends
Some fashion trends come and go but others like the vintage jacket look are classics that stay forever. It’s no surprise to see the growing popularity of online and offline vintage clothing store. If you want to add a stylish vintage jacket to your wardrobe, check out the collection at Riaaj Vintage. This carefully curated collection offers various styles from different design decades. Whether you’re looking for something casual or something better suited to a weekend date, there’s sure to be something for you.