Now Trending: 1940s Romance Holds Its Own in 2020

Retro elegance makes a welcome return to our winter wardrobes

Words and Styling by ALISON EDMOND
Photography by MARK GRIFFIN CHAMPION

 

Perhaps it’s the times we’re living through, but to see these ladylike looks walk down the runways with the air of a past wartime era this season was totally inspiring. Fashion has always represented the zeitgeist, and this attitude sent a message of strengthening resolve — women taking back their power and showing fortitude in difficult days. Suits are slim-fitted and efficient at Dolce & Gabbana or made modern with padding at Miu Miu; puff-sleeved chunky knits at Fendi are paired with pleather skirts or culottes; and at Coach, tones are subtle and earthy, and fabrics are sturdy yet feminine. Accessorized with a classic skin slingback and a minimalist lady bag, these pieces are perfectly made for today’s “get up and keep going” type of moment.

 

BURBERRY jacket, $3,050, shirt, $1,450, skirt, $1,990, and belt, $660. IRENE NEUWIRTH earrings, $10,020.

 

VINCE dress, $445, and sweater, $365. JIMMY CHOO shoes, $695. IRENE NEUWIRTH earrings, $3,370. CH CAROLINA HERRERA bag, $1,755. Socks, stylist’s own.

 

FENDI sweater, $1,690, and skirt, $5,900. IRENE NEUWIRTH earrings, $3,370. CH CAROLINA HERRERA clutch, $465.

 

MIU MIU jacket, $3,500, skirt, $2,100, and clutch, $2,850. CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN shoes, $775. VRAM earrings, $3,200. Socks and belt, stylist’s own.

 

COACH coat, $2,400, blouse, $195, and culottes, $795. JIMMY CHOO shoes, $750. CH CAROLINA HERRERA bag, $875. IRENE NEUWIRTH earrings, $10,020.

 

Model: LEXI BHARDWAJ at Freedom Models
Hair and Makeup: DEE DALY at Opus Beauty using Oribe and Chanel Les Beiges

 

Feature image: DOLCE & GABBANA jacket, $5,345, skirt, $6,745, boots, $3,695, and bag, $2,695. VRAM earrings, $3,200. Socks, stylist’s own.

 

This story originally appeared in the September 2020 issue of C Magazine.

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