The Hawaiian shirt is a true vintage classic, an iconic look that has lasted through the decades and is now a staple in the summer style staples. Whether you’re inspired by a retro film or your uncle’s holiday style, there’s no doubt that its influence is everywhere in fashion. So we’ve decided to delve into the history of this iconic shirt, from its origins to the big pop culture moments that have kept the Hawaiian shirt back to the forefront of men’s fashion.

The Origin of the Hawaiian Shirt

Even though Hawaii was self-governed in the 1880s there was still a massive presence of US-run businesses. Seeking cheap labour, American business owners recruited from all corners of the world, from China, Korea and Portugal, but most importantly to the Aloha shirt, Japanese immigrants. 

Why was this important?

Aloha shirts have strong Japanese roots as these immigrants often brought with them bright kimono fabrics. Filipino and Chinese immigrants also play a role by bringing barong talongs, a type of traditional untucked shirt, and multicoloured silks.

These foreign influences, paired with Hawaiian native Kapa cloth clothes, were instrumental in creating the Hawaiian shirt.

Fast forward to the 1920s where Gordon Young, a student at the University of Hawaii, worked with his mother’s dressmaker to create a ‘pre-aloha shirt’. Using Japanese Yutaka cloth, known to be used by Japanese women for work kimonos. Patterns included blue or black bamboo and geometric designs on white backgrounds. Soon enough, these became popular with his classmates in Hawaii. Young later attended the University of Washington, bringing his shirts with him, turning heads aplenty and sparking a lot of fashion debate.

It wasn’t until the 30s that the Aloha shirt really started to increase in popularity. The key to this was Ellery Chun, a local businessman who had just graduated from Yale in 1931. He transformed a Chinese dry goods shop into the first mass producer of Hawaiian shirts, coining the term “Aloha-shirts” and making them a must-have of Honolulu.

 

The Mass production of Hawaiian Shirts

Shortly after, Hawaiian shirts went into mass production. Alfred Shaheen was at the forefront of this, during the 50s his textile company ‘Shaheen’s of Honolulu’ was the largest producing Hawaiian shirts in Hawaii. Aloha shirts for men were his big speciality, but his range also included sarong dresses for women, the first of their kind being made in large-scale. As sales boomed, Shaheen hired teams of artists to design new motifs for fabrics, with artists experimenting with prints and producing non-traditional coconut tree’s, oriental fish and surfers.

Other big names such a Kamehameha and Duke Kahanamoku, as well as Shaheen’s of Honolulu, helped turn the Hawaiian shirt from a novelty tourist item into a commercially traded product.

Our 6 Favourite Hawaiian Shirt Moments In Pop Culture

From Here to Eternity, 1953.

Hollywood in the 50s really embraced the shirt. Shaheen was big on celebrity endorsement, encouraging all the biggest Hollywood stars to wear his pieces, helping them break through to more mainstream fashion in America. They became immortalised on the silver screen with Frank Sinatra, Ernest Borgnine, Montgomery Clift, and Burt Lancaster all wearing them in the 1953 movie classic, “From Here to Eternity.” making them a staple in movie fashion history.

Elvis Presley in Blue Hawaii, 1961.

Elvis was THE style icon of his time, breaking boundaries in men's fashion throughout his career, capturing the imagination of the world. When the King of Rock n Roll starred in Blue Hawaii, he was the perfect model for Shaheen’s Hawaiian Shirts. Coupled with an iconic soundtrack and set in paradise, Elvis made the Hawaiian shirt the perfect item for a summer holiday on the beach.

Tom Selleck in Magnum P.I., 1980-1988.

This American crime drama set in Hawaiian became an overnight success, ranking in the top 20 TV shows in the US for most of the 80s. As the key character, Tom Selleck’s stardom exploded, and his relaxed summer style featuring multiple Hawaiian shirts in a dazzling array of colours and prints, along with short shorts, baseball caps and accessorised with lots of chest hair and a giant tash, became one of the most recognisable looks of the decade.

Jim Carrey in Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, 1994.

Just when you thought the Hawaiian shirt’s loud colours had been left in the 80s, the outlandish comedian Jim Carrey somehow brings it back for his bizarre character in Ace Ventura: Pet Detective. Not the most obvious source of style inspo, Carrey works an open Hawaiian shirt over a white t-shirt and flashy trousers making it modern, fun and wonderfully weird.

Leonardo DiCaprio, Romeo + Juliet, 1996.

This was quite possibly the best film of the 90s, with Baz Luhrmann adapting William Shakespeare’s classic without changing the language, but updating the location, music and style, taking it to dizzying heights of cool. Leonardo DiCaprio cemented his 90s heartthrob status for life in this film, and his beautiful collection of Hawaiian shirts, also worn by his crew The Montagues, showcase how to make this look effortlessly cool.

Johnny Depp, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, 1998.

A modern classic, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas is a trippy adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson’s American Dream novel that became a cult hit. Johnny Depp took his wardrobe into his own hands, managing to get a hand on items that really did belong to Thompson himself, including his iconic Hawaiian shirts. This bad boy take on the relaxed summer look was combined with hazy yellow sunglasses, bucket hats and converse, perfect for an endless, potentially trippy, summer.

 

How to style a Hawaiian shirt

Feeling inspired by our top classic Hawaiian shirt moments? We've chosen 3 easy styles perfect for everyday wear whether your off on holiday, having a weekend at a festival or just hanging out with your mates.

Beachwear

Hit the beach in a classic Hawaiian shirt and add some fresh colours to your holiday wardrobe. Whether you're looking for scenic beach prints, palm leaf patterns or a novelty parrot motif, we have a Hawaiian shirt for every occasion. Style with beach trunks or shorts for an easy breezy look to handle the heat.

Festival Ready

Shop bold Hawaiian print perfect for a summer full of festivals. Layer over your favourite vintage t-shirt to put your own style stamp on this classic look. Don’t forget your favourite 90s sunnies to hide tired eyes!

Skater Street Style

This low key look is perfect for a weekend in the city, at the skate park or the pub. Pair with your trusty old pair of Vans and jeans and you’ve got a great look for day to night.

Already got your vintage Hawaiian shirt but it needs some TLC? Check out our vintage care guide to sewing a button to help you keep your item for longer!

Party season is well underway and there's no better inspiration for vintage party wear than the infamous Studio 54.

The former nightclub located at 254 West 54th Street, bang in between Eighth Avenue and Broadway in Manhattan, was the pinnacle of 70's hedonism.

World famous for it's beyond imaginatively themed parties where everybody from postmen and retail assistants would be rubbing shoulders to disco tunes with celebrities and the incredibly wealthy, granted you were dressed fabulously enough to get past the lucrative doormen.

One time Bianca Jagger even rode in across the dance floor on a white horse - totally iconic! 

How To Get The Look

 

 

With December being the time for celebrating, whether it be your work Christmas party or New Year's Eve with your very best friends, there's no doubt that it's time to dress to impress and this year we're fully inspired.

Channelling our inner diva, we're into velvet dresses under 70s shearling coats in every colour and statement accessories or shimmering hosiery to match.

It's time to get on your dancing shoes and the higher the heel the closer to God. We recommend the biggest platform shoes known to mankind because le freak, c'est chic. 

 

 

Not only does layering up to protect you from the bitter cold (seriously, it's minus two degrees at the time of writing this) but it gives you more of a chance to show off your look and exquisite styling skills. Throw a glamorous jacket over a sparkly vintage roll neck, a silk scarf over a retro jumper or even a raunchy fishnet body under a flared leg jumpsuit. Even making an entrance in a striking faux fur jacket for extra fabulousness wouldn't go amiss. After all, you can always ditch it in the cloakroom when things start hotting up. 

 

✨Shop party tops ✨

Whilst Studio 54 unfortunately closed down forever following the owner's arrest over tax evasion, it's still possible to party like we're there.

Although arriving on an animal is probably more hassle than it's worth, it's almost necessary to go all out just to keep the spirit of the outrageous venue alive. 

✨ Shop the perfect NYE look ✨

Photographer: Greg Bailey 
Make up: Evie Eden 
Styling/Direction: Charlotte Lewis
Assistants:Mary Costello + Hatti Rex
Models: Chanel Ava Theo 

As we head into the summer and approach the halfway mark of 2019 it's a good time to look back and celebrate our favourite vintage-inspired looks of the year. Whether your wardrobe looks like it was brought straight from the 60's or you like to experiment with era-themed styling there is something to inspire you all.

1. The Shell Suit Of Your Dreams

Starting strong... our warehouse team showing you how to rock an 80s shell suit. Go hard or go home right?

2. Sassy Seventies 

 A dreamy, bohemian, vintage inspired look perfect for summer. Grab yourself a patterned mini dress from our huge selection! 

3. The Perfect Season Transition Outfit

Leandra Medine is a bonafide style guru and this 70s inspired look has us swoooooning. If you're looking for a way to jazz up your denim why not try a statement jacket.

 4. Flares With Friends

The fitting rooms in our Bristol store are perfect for an impromptu catwalk to strut around in your new vintage finds.

 5. Sorbet Pink Perfection

We just can't get enough of seventies inspired dressing for summer, another of our favourite looks- so chic and flattering for all.

 6. Berlin Street-style Inspiration

Vintage-inspired normcore dressing isn't going anywhere, so get on board!

 7. Dad On Holiday But Make It Fashion

Talking of normcore, dad-style, a member of our Brighton store shoes you how to make the trend work for warmer days! Shop our men's city break edit here.

 8. Dramatic Glamour

One of our favourite Met Gala looks of this year, Lily Collins pulled out all the stops in this vintage-inspired frilled gown with 60s bouffant and makeup. Definitely one to recreate asap!

 9. Rock 'n' Rolla

Coloured vintage jeans styled two ways. A simple but effective way to work your vintage pieces.

 10. Suave Seventies

A superb 70s throwback look and so simple to create- you probably have a vintage roll neck and pinstripe trousers in your wardrobe already!

 11. Disney Dreaming

We absolutely love this fun 90s style- the Mickey Mouse patch is just the icing on the cake. You can shop our selection of vintage Disney clothing here!

 12. Denim Chic

Kendall Jenner rocking both the work-wear and double denim trends all in one go. We love this simple and chic 70s inspired look.

 13. Mint Madness

A swingin' 60s look by one of our Dalston store team. Minty perfection! Don't forget you can shop all of our true vintage pieces by decade online! 

 14. Classic Cowboy

Last but by no means least, Lil Nas X has us all embracing yeehaw culture with his vintage-looking Western outfits. Even if you don't have a cowboy hat from Gucci you can still get some Wrangler on your booty by shopping our branded denim selection here.

 

Feeling inspired? Head over to our online store to find the freshest selection of vintage pieces hand-picked just for us; or if you want a little bit more style inspiration why not check out our blog where you can see how to wear double denim, how to do monochromatic dressing or read up on what fashion in the 1970s was like.

 

Words by Eloise Gendry

You might associate dungarees with awkward pictures of yourself as a baby that your mum pulls out to embarrass you, but they are actually a versatile piece you should definitely add to your adult wardrobe. In the summer, easy dressing and outfits you can throw on in a second are the best - especially as we have to make it out of the house and into the sunshine before until it disappears ten minutes later.

After the boiler suit trend of winter, dungarees are the perfect summer alternative to keep comfy, cool and on trend. If you’ve seen your favourite people wearing them on the ‘gram you’re not the only one, they’re everywhere. But if you still feel lost about how to style a pair of vintage dungarees and then let us gently guide you.

Here's 5 Ways To Wear Vintage Dungarees For Summer:

1 - How to wear dungarees to work

Office-appropriate dressing gets even harder in the summer when all you want to do is rock up in shorts and crop top. Dungarees provide a great option between comfortable summer clothing and outfits that won’t get you fired. Try styling a dark blue or black dungaree dress with a white linen shirt with sleeves rolled up and pair it with some Birkenstocks or your favourite low-top trainers. You’ll stay cool and be comfortable but also look totally profesh.

2 - How to wear dungarees for a night out

On long, hot summer nights you want to be comfortable and feel your absolute best - that’s why dungarees are the answer! Underrated by many their versatility knows no bounds. Ideal for when those lazy park afternoons turn into long summer nights out - you don’t need an outfit change. A cami vest with dungarees and a pair of platforms is all you need to see you through. For a classic ‘out out’ vibe opt for black platforms and bag with gold jewellery with some statement earrings.

3 - How to wear dungarees on a date

Date outfit woes be gone! Pair a long pair of dungarees with a cute tee shirt, and matching leather accessories like a vintage camera bag and some mules for a relaxed and totally cute outfit. Whether you’re heading on a picnic, hitting up your favourite bar or strolling around a gallery this is the perfect date look. Now just to find a date…. Better start swiping.

4 - How to wear dungarees to a festival

Dungarees were MADE for festivals. Ideal for when you’re in a crowd, sitting on the grass and quick to get on and off when you’re in the dreaded festival portaloos, they’re the most practical piece you can invest in for the festival season. Practicality is SEXY. Go all out on your festival look with a sparkly bralet or mesh top, matching bumbag and some serious blingy sunglasses. Now you’re ready to go pay £10 for a pint of beer and dance to your heart’s content.

5 - How to wear dungarees to the beach

The perfect holiday outfit is just a pair of vintage dungarees away. If you’re not a beach dress kinda person then opt for the effortless and equally as cool option of some short dungarees. Wear over your swimsuit with a wide-brimmed hat and sandals for a chic beach look that will also take you from the beach to bar.

All the pieces featured in this blog can be found in our Brick Lane store on Cheshire Street, along with a myriad of other vintage gems.

You can shop our range of dungarees online here or alternatively pop into one of our stores to find your perfect pair and all the accessories you need.

 

 

After the hype around Bohemian Rhapsody it’s no surprise that an Elton John biopic has been announced. One of the most iconic figures in British music, Sir Elton John has inspired generations after him with both his music and his style. His stage outfits are instantly recognisable in the same way that his voice could not be confused for anyone but him.

So before we see Taron Egerton portray the living legend in Rocketman lets take a look at Elton John’s most iconic fashion moments.

Top 10 Elton John Looks

1973 - Winged Wonder

A truly iconic outfit, this all white, angelic get-up is an ethereal look. The oversized sunglasses are the perfect accessory to top it off - definitely inspiration from for the festival season.

1974 - Definitely Not Mellow Yellow

This in-your-face yellow stage outfit is exactly what you think of when you think of Elton; tight spandex, a plunging v-neck and massive white feather sleeves. YAS.

1975 - Home Run

This crystal covered costume made Elton’s performance at Dodgers Stadium in Los Angeles a memorable one. Harry Styles was even inspired to recreate this look for Halloween 2018, down to the tinted-lens square sunglasses.

 

1980 - Totally Quackers

Not one to shy away from wacky looks, Elton performed in Central Park, NYC in an inflatable Donald Duck outfit. Genius.

 

1984 - Shining Star

Elton John has always existed outside the realm of gender norms and in this bedazzled gown he makes a statement. The custom headpiece is also a show stealer.

 

1986- Shocking Pink

You would think the focus point of this outfit would be the bedazzled silver jacket, alas, it is the bright pink mohawk that our eyes are immediately drawn to.

 

1988 - Man Of Many Costumes

Dressed down in a simple black polo, Elton stands with a selection of his stage costumes showing the transformation that takes place in the dressing room.

 

1992 - Versace, Versace, Versace

At a Versace store opening in London in 1992, Elton poses with Donatella Versace in his iconic round sunglasses that became an integral part of his looks.

 

1997 - Never Outdone

For his 50th birthday party Elton John arrived dressed as an 18th century aristocrat. The bigger the hair, the closer to heaven, as they say; this hair is practically in the clouds.

 

Totally Gaga

His influence is boundless and of course the queen of outlandish stage costumes has taken a note or too from Elton John’s costume playbook.

Get The Look

Feeling inspired? We don't blame you. If you're read to upgrade your wardrobe and try something a little more flamboyant then look no further- here's our top Elton John inspired picks.

 

Gold Converse- £26.95

Red Patent Baker Boy- £18.00

Yellow Lens Round Sunglasses- £10.00

Long Sleeved Metallic Rainbow Shirt- £22.00

Floral Cropped Blazer- £25.00

Leather Platform Boots- £46.00

Diamante Resin Hoop Earrings- £10.00

 

If you can't get enough of the Elton John inspiration then head over to Pinterest. You can follow Beyond Retro and see our Rocketman inspired board where you can get inspired by his best looks and a curation of Elton-inspired vintage pieces from our website.

Words Eloise Gendry

As it gets warmer, and we all start to panic about whether it’s too cold to go bare-legged, or too warm to wear your favourite vintage jumper that you’ve been wrapped up in all winter, there’s one piece that will always be our go to; a vintage Levi denim jacket.

The perfect throw-on piece that really does go with everything, it’s one of our summer wardrobe heroes. We’d never want you looking anything but you’re best and feeling like so here is our pick of the best Levi denim jackets and how to wear them.

Vintage Levi Denim Jackets Looks For Her

How to wear denim jackets to work

What to wear to work in the summer is always stressful, but take it easy and create a foolproof look that you can wear any day of the week. A floral midi + a tee + a denim jacket = your new go-to office outfit. Keep it casual with some Vintage Converse or take the look up a notch with some pumps, either way, it’s an easy look that requires little effort for big impact.

 

How to wear a denim jacket to a festival

Stay cool in the sunshine by throwing a sleeveless denim jacket over your fave Vintage Band T-Shirts and a pair of raw-hem shorts or your favourite mini skirt. This look works whether you pair it with your favourite vintage Vintage Doc Martens or if you go all out with a pair of wellies.

Dance all day and night in the ultimate festival look. Bonus points if you customise your jacket with patches and badges. Don’t forget some big earrings and a pair of statement sunglasses for a killer sunset look.

 

How to wear a denim jacket on a date

There’s nothing like a summer romance; fall head over heels for your vintage Levi’s denim jacket and create the perfect date look. Simple, elegant and SO cute this look never fails.  Check out our selection of slip dresses and add your favourite oversized denim jacket, voila you’re ready to bag yourself a boyfriend…. Or girlfriend… Or FWB… or whatever it is you’re after.

 

Vintage Levi Denim Jackets Looks For Him

How to wear a denim jacket with denim jeans

A legend, an icon, of course, we’re talking about double denim. The summer is the perfect time to play around with new looks and go all out with your outfits, so embrace the double denim revolution by matching the washes of your jeans to your jacket and styling it out with a pair of trainers and your favourite graphic tee.

 

How to wear a denim jacket for BBQ

There's nothing like having a few beers, soaking up the sun and eating totally burnt food from the bbq. Whilst the food might not be on point your outfit can still be. Pair some casual chinos with a vintage denim jacket in a muted tone with chunky trainers to channel your inner Yeezy and rock the dadcore trend. Bonus points by adding the ultimate normcore accessory- some Kappa tube socks.

 

How to wear a denim jacket to the pub garden

Don’t throw out your skinny jeans just yet, keep it casual in black denim for a lazy summer Sunday outfit. Converse or Vans are a must for this look as are some wayfarer-style sunnies. Cut up your favourite band tee and turn it into a tank for a grungy laid-back look.

Shop our selection of vintage Levi's denim jackets here and if you're after some more style inspo for summer check out our guide to Hawaiian shirts.

 

 Words by Eloise Gendry

From punks to pop icons check, tartan, houndstooth and gingham are eternal favourites. Each type of fabric has a rich history and they continue to be updated every season, their popularity never faltering. We’ve taken inspiration from these fabrics and the likes of Gucci, Kenzo, Versace and Charles Jeffrey for winter, piling up kilts, plaid shirts and scarves.

Whether you choose to go all-out, head-to-toe, full-on with the trend or keep it more low-key by styling up a patterned piece we have some inspiration for you. Check out our Criss-Cross icons.

Clueless

Probably one of the most iconic and memorable costumes from the film, Cher and Dionne’s plaid two piece looks still have us bugging out. Whilst the idea of wearing a completely tartan outfit might scare you as much as driving down the highway in a car driven by Dionne, style this look with a simple graphic tee underneath and it becomes easily wearable.

Malcolm McLaren

Former Sex Pistols manager, artist and musician Malcolm McLaren was an integral part of the London punk scene during the late seventies. His iconic look was truly rebellious, putting two fingers up to the fashion of the time.

Rachel Green

A moment of silence for this outfit, please. Rachel was a style icon of the nineties, wearing some of the best outfits to ever grace the small screen and a haircut that many viewers would later regret copying. Possibly the preppiest she ever looked, this outfit is still inspirational today. The knee socks and roll neck perfectly compliment the plaid mini skirt in a kitsch and cute look that is super simple to replicate. You can shop our selection of laid skirts here.

Gwen Stefani

From performing at Glastonbury to a day out with her baby there’s No Doubt that Gwen is a fan of a plaid pant. Suiting her punky, fusion style statement, red and green checks seem to be her go-to. Easily paired with chunky boots and a crop-top you can recreate this look in an instant.

Tartan Queen

Naomi Campbell is known to make an impression on the catwalk and Vivienne Westwood 1994 was no different, she graced fashion week head to toe in Scottish heritage tartan. The classic Westwood silhouette and the top to toe styling makes a real impact. Go all-out and shop our selection to create your own all-tartan look.

Aunt Viv, Fresh Prince Of Bel Air

Aunt Viv’s costumes were always impeccable, as was her hair and this yellow skirt suit is a perfect example exquisite looks she wore. Shop our selection of blazers here.

The People’s Princess

We all wish we could have raided Princess Diana’s wardrobe as she had such an iconic and versatile style that to this day is #goals. This teal check coat and hat combo is one of her most well-remembered and made an impact whilst also being very simple.

Beyoncé

What’s more iconic than the classic Burberry check? Beyoncé in custom Burberry check. When Riccardo Tisci took over from Christopher Bailey he updated the brand’s logo and the check itself, making it more modern. Obviously, Queen Bey can do no wrong when it comes to her outfits but this stage look in particular deserves a round of applause.

Dorothy

A gingham-clad beauty, Judy Garland’s Dorothy is known for her iconic dress. The pale blue and white pattern perfectly suits the sweeter-than-pie character, especially with the matching hair bows. Gingham screams sunshine, summer and picnics in the park but a gingham skirt paired with a knitted jumper and boots can be a perfect transitional look.

Lady Gaga

Not one to shy away from a bold look, Gaga went all out with this monochrome houndstooth look. The pearls are the perfect finishing touch for this loud but feminine look.

Vans - the iconic skate shoe

The waffle-sole, checkerboard print Vans trainer might be more commonly connected nowadays with the spiked-belt-wearing indie/emo tribes of the early 2000s, but their roots lay firmly in a history of skateboarding. The black and white checkerboard design is a design classic and is still as popular as it ever was. Shop our selection of Vans here.

The late, great Alexander McQueen

One of the biggest designers that Britain has produced and a legend in his own right, McQueen created many collections inspired by his father's’ Scottish heritage that incorporated traditional tartan fabrics. Accompanied by Sarah Jessica Parker to the 2016 MET Gala, the pair looked dreamy in tartan creations, McQueen in a classic kilt and Parker in a tartan-wrapped ball gown extravaganza.

Liv Tyler, Empire Records

The ultimate girl crush, Liv Tyler…. Need we say more?

Audrey Hepburn, 1961

There are not many lists of style icons where Audrey Hepburn wouldn’t appear and this one is no different. Her pairing of colour coordinating green check skirt and polo top clash brilliantly with her opaque red tights, an elegant and fun twist on criss-cross styling.

The laundry bag.

THE biggest criss-cross icon is undoubtedly the humble laundry bag. A true unsung hero, the classic red and blue check has inspired designers and even been incorporated into collections from big brands such as Balenciaga. We stan a criss-cross legend.

 

Words Eloise Gendry

Here’s our Beyond Retro guide to the ultimate animal-print-wearing icons for some serious style inspo!

Aside from convincing your neighbours to hand over sweets, dressing up is the absolute best bit of Halloween! For once a year, the majority of fun lovers get dressed up as their favourite character from pop culture or spooky deity and have the greatest time ever.

Sometimes digging out last years Halloween costume just isn’t enough, especially in a world where everyone posts their looks across social media, many of these costumes will lie unused in the back of wardrobes all over.

 The easiest way to combat this Halloween tragedy is by planning an outfit that can be incorporated into your everyday style. Here are a handful of ideas the Beyond Retro staff have come up with that can easily be reworked into more casual looks.

 

Teen Wolf

 

Before: A fairly terrifying Teen Wolf recreation featuring our in-store Halloween mask and gloves. It’s enough to send anyone howling!

After:  A wholesome menswear look featuring a statement vintage nylon team jacket layered over monochromatic basics.

 

Velma

Before: Jinkies! The mystery of what to wear this Halloween is pretty much solved. This Velma Dinkley looks featuring a vintage orange rollneck jumper and matching midi skirt is a classic. Even better if your friends come dressed as the rest of the Scooby gang.

After: Oh hey, without the wig Velma’s outfit makes a perfect Autumnal look. Just throw on a coat and you’re all set.

 

Del Boy

Before: The world is your lobster with this curiously accurate Del Boy costume. All you’ll need is flat cap combined with a shearling jacket, clashing jumper and a chain. Oh, and the obligatory beer belly. Lovely Jubbly!

After: Swapping the chain and cap for your own accessories turns the look into yet another stylish Autumnal outfit. Paired with a timeless shearling coat, your look will never date!

 

Cat

Before: There’s a reason you see so many girls dressed as cats on Halloween and that’s because it’s one of the easiest looks to pull off. Simply combine an all black jumpsuit with our scary cat ears and a tail set (available in-store only) and your look will be purr-fect!

After: Stuff those ears and tail into your bag and you’re a human again, with an outfit suitable for most occasions too!

 

Mermaid

Before: There’s nothing fishy about this glamourous mermaid costume. Simply layer all your sequin dresses to mimic a tail, find the brightest candy coloured wig available and wear a sequin bra as outerwear.

After: Pick your favourite dress out of the tail and ditch the rest, pop your bra back underneath and you’ve got a super chic party look!

 

For more Halloween inspiration, shop our spooky new edit. It’s to die for.

How we got to October this quickly is beyond anyone, it seems like just five minutes ago that we were clinking glasses celebrating the year coming in and now it's basically Winter. With Halloween just a blink away, it's definitely time to prepare for all your Halloween shenanigans before it's too late! Otherwise, you'll be flapping around fancy dress shops or Poundland on your lunch break come the 31st before realizing that everything half decent is sold out. 

The build-up to a Halloween party is all fun and games until it's the night before and you haven't sorted anything. Once you finally settle on an idea, things do get easier. Here are a handful of ideas that will be mega popular this year, so choose or avoid as necessary. 

IT

Image / NY TIMES (Warner Bros)

There's no doubt that the clown from the IT reboot is going to disgrace us with its presence at every Halloween celebration across the globe. It was creepy enough the first time but somehow it's gotten scarier. Get a mate who's good at makeup to sort out the face, layer some frilly lingerie over tights with puffed sleeves and top it all of a ruff. 

 Heres how we did it:

 

Friday The 13th 

Image / Digital Spy (Warner Bros)

Another killer Halloween look rebooted for the modern era, a Jason costume is perfect for those who can't be bothered to faff around with makeup before heading out. Simply combine a hockey mask, fake machete and a vintage brown leather jacket over an all-black outfit.

 

Stranger Things

Image / Yahoo

Whilst Stranger Things was the hottest fancy dress of last year, talks of the newest season mean you could totally recycle your past outfit. It's definitely one of the best Halloween group looks for those that want to be able to incorporate their costume into their everyday wardrobe. 

 Check out how our staff nailed the Stranger things look:

 

Donald Trump

Image / Medium

Once you've got the suit jacket sorted all you'll need is a really terrible wig, a can of spray tan and a Twitter account. Please don't threaten to brawl anyone dressed as Kim Jong Un whilst you're out, it is just a costume.

 

Jigsaw 

Image/ Huffington Post

Back once again with the Halloween remake, terrify the neighbourhood with your own rendition of Jigsaw. Blazer, red shoes, bow tie and some swirly red cheeks: no need to play stupid games running around the fancy dress shops after all. 

 

 Wonder Woman

Image / Huffington Post

In order to be the most powerful babe at Halloween and channel your inner Wonder Woman, you'll need lots and lots of spandex and gold. Consider adding your own spin on things with statement accessories such as a chain mail top or sparkly cape.

 

Versace Runway

Image / Harpers Bazaar 

Another golden look that's totally on trend. This year at Milan fashion week, Versace surprisingly ended their show with the most iconic supermodels from the 90's strutting their stuff to George Michael. Become a fashion icon this Halloween in one of our vintage gold pieces. 

 

Handmaid's Tale 

Image / Refinery29

Whilst the world seems to be politically crashing all around us, there's no doubt that the dystopian Handmaiden's Tale has given us at least something to look forward to each week. Fashion a headdress out of white card and grab a red robe to complete the easiest Halloween look ever. 

 

Beauty And The Beast

Image / Medium

Be the Belle of the ball quite literally, either in a blue dress with an apron or an elegant yellow number with matching hair accessories. All you budding beasts will need to get your paws on our selection of horns and claws we have in store. 

 

Rick And Morty

Image / Buzzfeed

Morty has a pretty basic and achievable look: one plain yellow tee, some jeans and trainers. Get your Granddad drunk and you'll have your own realistic Rick accessory, just add a lab coat. 

 

Game Of Thrones 

Image / Pogdesign.co.uk

Dominate the party and secure the best seat in the house for yourself with an on-point Game Of Thrones rendition. Become the mother of dragons, without getting burnt, in shoulder pads combined with a luscious blonde wig. 

 

Mermaids and Unicorns 

Mermaids and unicorns are possibly the most 2017 thing to ever 2017 in 2017. Shine brighter than a diamond in sequins, glitter and bright colours. Halloween doesn't always have to be full of ghosts & ghouls! 

Failing all these, you can always browse our Halloween section and dig up something for yourself!

If there’s anything we’ve learnt from the horror films, it’s safer to stay as a group than to split up, which is why pre-planned Halloween group getups are the best costume idea!

Oh, yeah, and the Instagram photos will be pretty worth it too. The only problem is choosing which fictional squad your homies could effectively pull off in time for Halloween, which unless you’ve all been binge-watching the same show recently, could result in a lot of who-owes-who and pulling straws. Luckily we’ve pulled together 15 of the best to make the initial stage of choosing just that little less terrifying.

1. The Addams Family

They're creepy and they're kooky, mysterious and spooky, they're altogether ooky, which is why The Addams Family make the classic group Halloween menagerie. Aside from the pale makeup and wigs, all you’ll need is a couple of old suit jackets, a black dress with a white blouse for Wednesday, a sleek maxi dress for Morticia, a striped t-shirt for Pugsley and a severed hand. It’ll be a scream!

 

2. Rocky Horror Picture Show

Another classic, this time for those who are looking any excuse to wear underwear as outerwear (even if it is basically Winter). All you’ll need is a maid’s outfit, some golden short shorts, underwear as outerwear, suspenders and a classic pair of heels so that your most extra friend can channel some Frank N. Furter.

3. The Spice Girls

Spice up your life this Halloween and spread the message of girl power by going as the best 90’s girl group of all time. Sporty will obviously be head to toe in sportswear, Geri could be rocking a union jack, Baby in pastels, Scary in sexy animal print and Posh will definitely be wearing one of her many little black dresses. Bag yourself some 90s platforms for the ultimate homage.

 4. The Shining

Grab your bestie, a couple of baby blue matching collared dresses, knee-high white socks, mary jane shoes and some cutesy hair clips to become the Grady twins this Halloween.

5. X Files

There will be a lot of unexplained creatures roaming around come Halloween, so it’s best that special agents Mulder and Scully will be there to take the case. Print off some badges and wear with a couple of late 90s office wear looks. This couple costume can easily be flipped into a group project, just incorporate some aliens and extra agents!

6. The Simpsons

The best thing about The Simpsons is that there’s a seemingly endless supply of characters, so even if you’re not overly enthused about dressing as Bart or Lisa, there’s plenty of other options to pick from. Although whoever you do end up going as, please remember to shower before getting into bed or you’ll be washing yellow body paint off your sheets for months!

7. Ghostbusters

If there’s something wrong in the neighbourhood, you should probably call your friends and become the Ghostbusters. Not only is it a perfect Halloween outfit choice but it’s fairly simple to emulate, black work boots and brown overalls will pretty much do it. Just print off the iconic logo to pin onto the front and you’re all good to go.

8. Absolutely Fabulous

Patsy and Eddie may be caricatures of the fashion industry but their outfits still pop. If you’re going as Eddie, you’ll need a lot of clashing 90s styles with some vintage designer brands strewn in, Patsy needs a short black miniskirt paired with an animal print blouse or statement jacket: both with a ciggie in hand. Bubbles’ looks were always a lot more kitsch and outlandish, the bolder the better!

9. Stranger Things

An easy and wearable halloween costume, you’ll definitely be able to repurpose these casual 80s styles to your everyday wardrobe. Whether you’re opting to dress as Eleven with a pink dress under a team jacket or even just popping a trucker cap on to emulate Dustin, there’s something effortlessly cool about the Stranger Things styling.

 

10. Glow

 

Possibly the strongest Halloween look based off the recent telly. For those who haven’t seen it, Glow is all about the female wrestling scene in the 80s so think gaudy leotards, leggings, neon, metallics and spandex. The bigger the hair, the better.

 

11. Scooby Doo

Combining retro 70’s styles with spooky vibes, dressing as the Scooby gang has to be one of the most fun iconic Halloween looks for every vintage lover. Bonus points if Scooby is an actual dog! These outfits are even totally wearable casually too, minus the wigs. Let’s be honest, you know you’ve wanted some Daphne-esque lilac go-go boots since childhood but never had the excuse to splurge.

 

12. Killer Brides

Because it wouldn’t be Halloween without some good old-fashioned gore. Pick up a vintage wedding dress from our website, either pre-covered in blood or clean pristine, and accessorize as necessary. How you killed your husband is entirely up to you.

 

13. Star Wars

There’s always somebody dressed up in a Star Wars costume and this year it might as well be you. Han Solo would need a brown shirt layered under a waistcoat, Princess Leia in a gorgeous white dress and Darth Vader could be styled with an entirely black outfit under a fetching cape. May the force be with your look.

 14. Chucky & Chucky's Bride

A classic 90s black comedy horror, these two killer dolls are the perfect couple dress up! For Chucky you need a pair of dungaree's, a bold knit and don't forget to raid your tool shed for the hammer... His bride clashes a classic wedding day gown with a biker jacket. Don't forget to pile on the makeup for her pretty terrifying eyebrow/ lipstick combo!

 

15. Heathers

 

Become your inner Heather and bring your closest girlfriends with you. Think popular 80s high school chick: collared blouses tucked into checked miniskirts with a blazer on top, definitely opt for shoulder pads even if it stands against every fibre of your being.

Failing all these, you can just wear all black everything and accessories with some cat whiskers. Shop more Halloween looks online or head to one of our stores for the ultimate Halloween experience!

WonderBras, corsets, push-ups and girdles; styles and fashions in women's lingerie have reflected not only the changing trends in women's fashion but also changes in societal attitudes to beauty, the body and politics.

Check out our break down of the history of lingerie and the changing trends and styles from the Mid 19th century lingerie to the 1990s.

 

1850 - 1900

Crinolines and corsets were standard elements of a fashionable ladies dress in the mid - 19^th century. During this century skirts were voluminous and bell-shaped, the desired effect was first achieved by layering a large number of petticoats together.

In 1856 they were replaced by the cage crinoline - a hooped petticoat made from flexible steel. Skirt s continued to expand and they reached their maximum proportions around 1860. Skirts were so enormous two ladies could not sit together on the same sofa! 

'Camille' by Monet 1866 - shows the vast hooped skirt that was fashionable at the time

A crinoline, courtesy of the V & A

1900 - 1910s

During the Edwardian period, fashion as always reflected the mood of the age. It was a decade defined by everything that was larger than life-size (for those who could afford it) in an age of excess and extravagance.

In fashion busts too became bigger, the effect was emphasised by the so-called 'health' corsets which were designed to relieve pressure on the abdomen, made the body firmly straight in front, by throwing back the hips and throwing forward the bust. This formed the body into an S-shaped stance so distinctive of the period.

1920

During the 1920's skirts became shorter and waistlines dropped, this sleek and slinky silhouette was unforgiving to any form of bulky lingerie. An androgynous silhouette was the fashionable shape of choice throughout the roaring jazz-fuelled 20's - the bust was entirely boyish and women even took to wearing flatteners and lightweight slips in newly invented fabrics to achieve the desired effect.

1930

The 1930's is renowned as the Golden Age of Hollywood and of glitz and glamour. Fashion looked to burgeoning Hollywood starlets for style inspiration. There was an emphasis on backless dresses bared to the waist, many of the dresses of the period looked as if they had been designed to be seen from the rear. 

With developments in fibre technology, fabrics, colours, patterns and innovations with adjustable straps, padded bras and cup sizing, bras became more sophisticated than ever before and allowed for a more versatile approach to dress especially when it came to backless dresses. Wasp waists were also back in fashion coming into the 40's. In the summer of 1939, Vogue's reporter noted 'you must have a tiny waist, held in if necessary by super-light-weight boned and laced corsets'.

Tony Frissel for Vogue, 1938

1940

Fabric shortages throughout the war impacted trends and styles in fashion, the waist remained nipped with skirts coming to just below the knee. The 'make-do and mend' campaign encouraged women to re-make and update their wardrobe by hand. Military terminology crept into everyday product marketing with the conical 'bullet bra' increasing in popularity, offering support and protection.

Dior's revolutionary 'New Look' in the late 40's waists were heavily corseted, hips were padded and shoulders softened with an emphasis on the bust. This hourglass silhouette was achieved with the help of a strong girdle, with attached suspenders to hold up stockings.

 

1950

Pointed brassieres or bullet bras remained popular into the 1950's, helping to achieve the ultra-feminine look that was favoured throughout this decade.

 

Hooped skirts to achieve the popular bell-shaped form

1960s

Despite the sexual and feminist revolution of the 1960s many trend-led young women often looked like children, dressed in baby doll dresses, puffed sleeves, pinafores, gymslips and the Knickerbockers.

Lingerie reflected these styles with cute nighties, frilly knickers and unstructured brassieres becoming popular throughout the decade.

 

1970s

The cutesy styles of the previous decade were set aside in favour of a more sophisticated and sexy look. Lingerie became daring and luxurious with the use of silks, satins and sequins utilized to create the underwear for the decade of disco.

 

1980s

The lingerie of the 80's projected a bold, youthful and overtly sexual image. This was the decade that brought us thongs and G-strings with lingerie designers drawing inspiration from fetishistic corsetry and lacing.

 

Cindy Crawford modelling a bra and thong set 1980's

1990s

The 90's saw the trend for underwear as outerwear fronted by the chameleon queen of pop, Madonna and also infamously known for her conical bra. This was also the decade of the WonderBra worn by supermodel Eva Herzigova.

Eva Herzigova in Wonderbra's 90's billboard campaign  

Shop our selection of vintage lingerie here or for some more fashion history read our history of Levis jeans here.