Retro-theme parties offer a delightful opportunity to step back in time and experience the vibrant styles of past decades. Dressing up for such occasions is a chance for men to experiment with bold patterns, nostalgic pieces, and iconic looks that defined the period. Understanding how to interpret these eras’ fashion trends is essential to embody the spirit of the party. In this men’s guide to dressing for a retro theme party, we’ll provide fashion tips and examples for 60s and 70s fashion.
Note the Dress Code
Verify the dress code for the party before shopping for apparel or looking through your wardrobe. Some retro-themed parties may be formal, while others are more casual. Similarly, your invitation may specify a specific decade or leave it open to interpretation.
Knowing the dress code lets you narrow down your options and ensure that your outfit is appropriate for the occasion. For example, how you’d dress for a formal 60s event differs from what you’d wear to a 70s disco party.
Understand the Decade’s Fashion Trends
Each decade saw different trends in the colors and styles of clothing worn. While there was some overlap in fashion, specific aesthetics encapsulated each period. Below are detailed examples of 60s and 70s styles to highlight what made apparel stand out.
Fashion Qualities of the 60s
The 1960s was a decade of significant cultural shifts, and its fashion reflected this transformation. Most men went from wearing suits and fedoras to adopting a more casual, youthful style in the early 60s. This youthful style included fitted shirts, polos, slim ties, and tailored trousers, which gave off more of a preppy aesthetic.
Men started embracing bold colors and geometric patterns as the decade progressed. Likewise, celebrities, such as The Beatles, popularized mod fashion, characterized by slim-fit suits, turtlenecks, and boots. By the end of the 60s, men’s fashion reflected a mix of old-school sophistication and new-age daringness.
Dressing Tip
Accessories such as round glasses, chunky watches, and suede loafers were especially popular for men throughout the 60s.
Fashion Qualities of the 70s
The 70s brought freedom and self-expression, which is evident in the eclectic fashion choices. Men embraced flared pants and wide-collared shirts, often in vibrant colors and psychedelic prints. The disco movement inspired a more daring approach to fashion, with shiny fabrics and bold accessories becoming staples in every wardrobe.
This era also saw the rise of leisure suits, which offered a more relaxed alternative to formal wear. Experimentation was key, allowing individuals to mix and match various styles for a personalized statement.
Dressing Tip
Think “bigger is better” when it comes to 70s fashion. Embrace wide lapels, oversized collars, and statement pieces to embody the decade’s carefree attitude.
Channel Icons of the Decade
Often, we look to cultural icons for fashion trends, and previous decades were no different. Drawing inspiration from the style icons of each decade can provide valuable guidance when assembling your outfit. After all, these celebrities set the trends during their time and offer a glimpse into the fashion landscape of the era.
Icons of the 60s
Consider drawing inspiration from style icons such as The Beatles or Steve McQueen if you attend a ’60s retro theme party. These men had a distinct fashion sense that embodied the decade’s spirit. While The Beatles popularized the mod aesthetic, Steve McQueen brought a rugged coolness to his outfits.
Icons of the 70s
Icons such as John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever or Freddie Mercury of Queen can inspire your look for a 70s-themed party. These men were known for their lively styles, often featuring bold colors, glittery accents, and statement pieces such as flared pants and platform shoes.
Consider All Aspects of the Outfit
Creating a cohesive retro look requires attention to detail in every aspect of your apparel. From the shirt to the accessories, each element plays a crucial role in capturing the essence of that age of fashion. Ensure you browse options tailored to your decade as you shop for clothing; for instance, when dressing for a 1960s retro party, search for “60s-inspired shirts.”
Shirt
A fitting shirt can set the tone for your entire ensemble, as it is often the most visible piece. Consider the decade you want to dress for and follow those fashion trends as you shop for the ideal shirt.
Dressing Tip
Slim-fitting patterned shirts were all the rage in the 60s, while the 70s saw more shirts with bold patterns.
Pants
Finding the perfect pair of pants to complement your shirt is essential for a successful retro look. Styles changed throughout the decades, going from slim-fitting trousers to flared pants.
Footwear
Shoes can make or break an outfit, and this is especially true for a retro-themed party. Often, loafers are a classic option that has worked well for nearly all decades. However, you can also wear shoes with a more distinct style, such as platform shoes from the 70s.
Accessories
Adding accessories takes your vintage look one step further and boosts the outfit’s authenticity. Consider adding items such as a belt, a pointed neck scarf, or sunglasses that reflect the decade’s fashion trends. For example, in the 60s, round sunglasses and skinny ties were popular, while chunky watches and bright neon belts were on-trend throughout the 70s.
Dressing Tip: Mix and Match Patterns
Mixing patterns can elevate your retro look, adding depth and interest to your outfit. The key is to balance bold prints with subtler designs to avoid clashing. Consider pairing a patterned shirt with a solid-colored suit to exude 60s fashion. You could try mixing a funky floral print top with striped pants for the 70s.
Experiment With Hairstyles
No men’s guide to dressing for a retro-theme party is complete without mentioning hairstyles. While clothing is essential to a retro look, your hairstyle further ties everything together to complete your outfit’s authenticity.
Consider trying a side-parted, slicked-back look or a tousled, surfer-inspired style to mirror looks from the 60s. Consider a shaggy, layered cut, or embrace long, rocker-style curls to mimic those from the 70s. Adding accessories such as headbands or bandanas can further add to the overall aesthetic.
Shop for Vintage Apparel
Finding authentic vintage clothing helps you achieve a genuine, retro look. You’ll find stylish, retro clothing collections at Dorothy Zudora that will make you stand out at any party. We have short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts that you can pair with a matching pocket square or necktie. Dorothy Zudora also sells pants that are perfect for 60s and 70s fashion. Shop our apparel today and buy the ideal outfit for your vintage-themed party.
