10 Vintage Fashion Pieces Still in Style

Table of Contents

• 1. Little Black Dress
• 2. Trench Coat
• 3. High Waisted Jeans
• 4. Slip Dress
• 5. Leather Jacket
• 6. White Button Shirt
• 7. Circle Skirt
• 8. Vintage Denim Jacket
• 9. Statement Accessories
• 10. Classic Knitwear
• References
• Images Sources

1. Little Black Dress

There's a reason the little black dress—aka the LBD—is everyone's go-to for everything.

First introduced to the world in a big way by Coco Chanel back in the 1920s, the LBD has survived fashion trends from every decade.

Short hemlines?

Check.

Full-length drama?

Also check.

No matter your style, body type, or vibe, theres an LBD out there that will make you feel like a total icon.

What makes it work so well?

It's simple.

It's sleek.

And its super easy to style.

Throw on some heels, or dont.

Add a bright lip, or keep it neutral.

Whether you're going for elegant, edgy, or even low-key chill, it just works.

You can wear it to dinner, a party, or even layer it with a tee for that ‘90s vibe.

That's the magic.

You don't have to overthink it.

An LBD is like the fashion version of comfort food—it always hits.

2. Trench Coat

The trench coat might sound like it belongs in a detective movie, but trust us—this baby is high-fashion gold.

Originally made for British soldiers in World War I, its now a runway favorite and street-style staple.

It's kind of wild how something so old-school can look so modern.

What makes the trench coat amazing is that it's perfect in weird weather.

Not too warm, not too light.

Plus, it instantly makes you look like you've got your life together (even if you're just heading out for coffee in leggings).

It also looks amazing belted, unbelted, draped over your shoulders—literally no wrong way to wear it.

If you're going neutral (think beige or camel), it'll match with everything.

Feeling bold?

Go for a pop of color or even a pattern.

3. High Waisted Jeans

You know those jeans that actually fit around your waist?

Yeah, thats what we're talking about here.

High-waisted trousers and jeans are a total throwback—think ‘40s and ‘70s vibes—but they've stuck around for a reason.

They hug the right places, they make your legs look miles long, and they actually feel comfy once you get used to them.

They also look amazing with tucked-in tees, crop tops, or even oversized sweaters.

Basically, they're super flexible, which is rare in the world of denim.

There's something about the structure they give that just feels...

right.

And whether you like them wide-leg, straight, or even a little flare—there's a version for every style.

4. Slip Dress

The slip dress is a vintage dream that just won't quit.

Originally inspired by undergarments (yes, seriously), this piece somehow turned into one of the coolest things to wear outside your house.

It's the mix of casual and fancy that makes it work so well.

It's soft.

It's silky.

And its that "I just threw this on but still look amazing" energy that we all secretly want.

You can layer it over a tee for a ‘90s grunge look, wear it solo with heels, or even throw a chunky sweater on top and wear it like a skirt.

If you're not into the whole tight-and-shiny thing, there are looser cotton versions out there that give the same vibe without the cling.

5. Leather Jacket

There's no cooler vibe than a leather jacket.

It's like instant attitude.

The leather blazer or jacket has bounced around through punk, rock, glam, and even business looks over the decades, and its still going strong.

Whether it's cropped, oversized, or tailored, a leather jacket adds an edge that other jackets just dont have.

It's also seasonless—light enough for fall, layered up for winter, and perfect for those in-between days.

Plus, it goes with literally everything from jeans to floral dresses.

If real leather's not your thing, faux leather versions today look just as good and are more wallet (and animal) friendly.

6. White Button Shirt

The classic white button-down is way more than just workwear.

It's one of those pieces that somehow manages to look fresh no matter how you style it.

Tied at the waist?

Chic.

Oversized with leggings?

Effortless.

Buttoned up with pearls?

Kind of iconic.

This shirt has been worn by everyone from Audrey Hepburn to street-style influencers.

It's a total blank canvas.

And when its slightly oversized or a little rumpled?

Even better.

You dont want it to look too perfect.

That's part of the charm.

Here's the key: fabric.

Go for cotton or linen if you want that soft, easy-going vibe.

7. Circle Skirt

There's just something about a full circle skirt that makes you wanna spin around like you're in an old movie.

These skirts were huge (literally) in the ‘50s and they still bring that super feminine, flirty energy today.

The fun part?

They give you instant drama without feeling over-the-top.

Pair them with a fitted top and you've got that perfect hourglass silhouette.

Or mix it up with sneakers and a graphic tee for a more modern twist.

Here's a quick look at how it compares to other skirts:

8. Vintage Denim Jacket

Let's face it—denim never dies.

And the vintage denim jacket is one of those pieces that just works with everything.

Whether its oversized, cropped, distressed, or covered in patches, it always adds a cool, laid-back vibe.

It's like your favorite hoodie's older, more stylish cousin.

Throw it over a dress, layer it with a hoodie, or just rock it with jeans (yes, denim on denim is a thing now).

It's one of those items that gets better the more you wear it.

Like, literally.

The more worn in its, the cooler it looks.

Look for jackets from the ‘80s or ‘90s for that perfect boxy shape and thicker denim feel.

9. Statement Accessories

If your outfit feels kinda "meh," statement accessories are the fastest way to level it up.

We're talking bold earrings, vintage scarves, unique handbags, and oversized sunglasses that scream personality.

These little touches have been making waves in fashion since forever, and they're still the best way to add your own flavor to any look.

Think chunky ‘80s necklaces or beaded bags straight from the ‘60s.

The best part?

You dont need a closet full of clothes—just one good outfit and some wild accessories can make you feel like you've got a whole new vibe.

10. Classic Knitwear

Grandma's old cardigan?

Fashion gold.

Classic knitwear is cozy, cute, and full of charm.

Cable-knit sweaters, ribbed pullovers, vintage vests—they've all made serious comebacks.

And for good reason.

These pieces are perfect for layering and work in every season (yep, even summer—think lightweight cotton or crochet styles).

Plus, they add a little texture to your outfit, which makes things feel more "put together" without trying too hard.

You can wear them cropped or oversized, colorful or neutral—whatever suits your mood.

And bonus: you'll be warm and stylish.

Vintage fashion is kind of like a time machine that works both ways—it brings the past into the present without ever feeling out of date.

Whether you're just dipping your toe into the vintage pool or fully obsessed with thrifting and treasure hunting, these 10 pieces are solid gold.

They're the kind of staples that never stop looking good, and you can style them your way.

So go ahead—raid your mom's closet, hit up that local vintage shop, or scroll deep into those secondhand apps.

You might just find your next favorite thing.

Sources and References

• Vogue Archives

• Harper's Bazaar

• The Vintage Fashion Guild

• Who What Wear

• Elle Magazine

Images Sources and Attributions

All images used within this page have been sourced from Wikimedia Commons. They are used here strictly for informational and illustrative purposes.