Retro Resolutions for the New Year

It’s a new year and it’s time to make those resolutions! Look back at the past and forward to the future at the Point. It’s the perfect time to do some redecorating and buy some new vintage threads to spruce up your wardrobe. Hang on to your hats and don’t let winter give you the blues. The weather at December’s show didn’t prevent shoppers from finding treasures at the Alameda Point Antiques Faire (myself included) and retro steals can make anyone’s rainy day a bit brighter. If you didn’t get a chance to pick up the Point Magazine, here are some of my tips on retro trends in my Vintage Style Solutions column.

The romantic look by Erin Fetherson

Give yourself permission and treat yourself to affordable vintage style choices to update your look. Mix prints with bolder prints. Add some wild color. Throw in some fun fabrics or layer pieces that are night and day. These trends apply to male readers too – guys can go for gingham and tweed and add a man brooch. (Yes, men’s jewels are in style). Ladies can buy Victorian petticoats to wear with a soft printed scarf and lace up boots, paying homage to the 1930s. Mix styles and inspire a free spirited, adventurous mood. Take some chic fashion risks — for vintage collectors, more is more and moxie is a must.

Here are some stylish trends that are being seen on the runways that you can draw on to revamp your own one of a kind look for less:

The 70s denim look on the Derek Lam runway.

• For that sultry 1970s jet set vibe, buy ethnic jewelry and stock up on cuffs, coin drop earrings and glam chain necklaces.
• Flowing chiffon and transparency confections are stellar for spring. Look for a vintage see-through slip dress and float on a cloud. Breezy light maxi skirts with a crochet top and floppy hat complete this romantic look.
• Go for bold brights to make your mark (in neon lights, that is)! Sarah Jessica Parker has been electrifying in canary yellow and orange, making the Best-Dressed lists from coast to coast. Many designer collections feature a full spectrum of vivid shades, but for the more timid, go for a bright accent – like a belt or scarf to lift you out of your winter rut.
• Denim is the functional fabric of California living. Who doesn’t love a pair of worn-in jeans? We see 1970s style kitschy culottes are making a comeback. Find the perfect pair of vintage bell bottoms, pair them with a chambray button up, and be a blue-jean-baby.
• You need tweed. Coco Chanel made the twill topper a classic back in the ‘20s. The look is still cherished today and toppers can be worn so many ways. It’s a classy look beloved by First Ladies and downtown darlings alike. Wear it to the office or with shorts in the spring on a weekend excursion. This is one investment piece that never goes out of style.

Bright ideas abound, Anna Sui artfully infuses vibrant hues into her Spring 2010 ready-to- wear presentation.

Speaking of spring style, you won’t want to miss the Alameda Point Vintage Fashion Faire scheduled for April 16, 2011. To be held in a new glamorous location at the historic “O” Club in Alameda Point, there will be a grand array of vintage and designer clothing from every era from which to choose.

Visit our website for more information and stay tuned for updates on this exciting event by joining us on Facebook. facebook.com/alamedapointvintagefashionfaire

When making your list of New Year’s resolutions, put shopping at the Point the first Sunday of every month high on your list and part of your resolve to spend more quality time with family and friends. Bring them shopping with you, have a tasty treat and buy yourself some treasures. Happy 2011!