Retro themes and prints have been making a comeback in the fashion world and for a good reason. These vintage-inspired looks are not only fashionable, but they also have a certain nostalgia and charm that can make any outfit stand out.
If you’re looking to incorporate some retro themes and prints into your wardrobe or have a retro theme party dress to plan for, there there are plenty of options to choose from. The polkas, plaids, the shararas, the palazzo, angrakhas, anarkali, bold prints and patterns, winged eyeliners, hairbands and ruffles – are the signature of a retro style. Wondering where to get started? Here are some ideas you can incorporate to create a retro theme dress for female.
1. The Printed Saree
One popular trend is the use of bold, graphic prints from the 60s and 70s. Think paisley, floral, and geometric patterns in bright, saturated colors. These prints make for a striking choice in a saree.
When it comes to wearing retro themes and prints, it’s important to find a balance. You don’t want to look like you stepped out of a time machine, but at the same time, you don’t want to shy away from making a statement. One way to achieve this balance is to mix and match different retro pieces with modern, more understated pieces. For example, we suggest you pair a simple blouse in a single colour with a polka-dot saree as opposed to a printed blouse that might clash with the dots.
2. Light Florals
Floral prints were quite a hit for sarees back in the day. For this look, you can take inspiration from ever-beautiful Waheeda Rehman and Sharmila Tagore. Recreate the look with a light floral organza saree paired with a sleeveless blouse. Finish the look with statement chandelier earrings and a sleek bun adorned with a gajra.
3. The Mumtaz Drape
Bollywood actor Mumtaz left a long-lasting impression with her iconic orange saree look in the film Brahmachari. You can recreate this retro theme dress with a pre-pleated saree that features gold gota borders, as well as a frilled hemline or ruffles. Accessorise it with gold chandelier earrings, a choker necklace, a hath patti, and a classic 60s puffy hairstyle.
4. The Anarkali
Take inspiration from the timeless elegance of Madhubala’s character in the classic film Mughal-e-Azam or Rekha in Umrao Jaan by wearing a flowing anarkali suit in off-white or a rich, regal colour. Pick a suit that features intricate embroidery and old-school motifs. The Anarkali suits complement all body types, look regal and is a great retro bollywood theme party dress idea female
5. The Sequinned Saree
Embrace the disco-era glam of Bollywood actresses Helen and Zeenat Aman by sporting a sequin-covered saree. You can also take inspiration from the cocktail saree worn by Deepika Padukone in Badtameez Dil. Finish the look with a strappy blouse, winged liner and a poufy hairdo.
6. The Silk Saree
While many Bollywood actresses have sported silk sarees over the years, no one does it like Rekha! This yesteryear actor sports the Kanjeevaram often as it is her signature look. You can recreate one of her timeless and retro looks with a rich Kanjeeveram saree and traditional temple jewellery. Finish the look with red lips and some matching bangles.
7. The Ruffle Saree
The ruffle sarees are making a comeback and make for a fantastic retro theme outfit idea. They add a fun and playful element to any outfit, and the ruffled detailing adds volume and movement to the saree, making it perfect for dancing and having a good time. These sarees are also very versatile, as they can be dressed up with formal jewellery and heels for a more sophisticated look or dressed down with casual sandals and minimal accessories for a more laid-back vibe.
Retro themes dress can be a fun and stylish way to add some personality and charm to your wardrobe. Whether you opt for full-on retro looks or mix-and-match modern and retro pieces, there are plenty of options to choose from. Just be sure to find the right balance, and don’t go overboard with the styling. The winger liner is a must for most retro looks, and you can also go for a poufy hairdo to complete the look.
FAQs on Retro Theme Dress
How do I dress for a retro theme party?
The polkas, plaids, the shararas, the palazzo, angrakhas, anarkali, bold prints and patterns, winged eyeliners, hairbands and ruffles – are the signature of a retro style. You can incorporate some of the elements mentioned above and mix and match them to create a retro look that works for you.
What is retro dress code?
The term “retro” refers to styles or trends from the past, and a retro dress code is a theme that asks guests to dress in a style that reflects a specific era from the past. For an Indian or Bollywood retro-themed party, you can choose to recreate some of the iconic looks of yesteryears actors like Rekha, Mumtaz, Helen, and Zeenat Aman.
What is retro theme?
An Indian or Bollywood retro-themed party usually involves dressing up in outfits that are recreations of some iconic looks of yesteryear actors.