When you think of the women that epitomise the spirit and vitality of vintage fashion, Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn are certainly at the top of an illustrious list. Vintage has come back with a welcomed bang, with the beautiful, timeless style of the 40s, 50s and 60s captivating the imagination of the high street, designers and the appreciators of anything cool.
At this year’s highly anticipated Goodwood Revival it wasn’t just be the motor cars that received an admiring glance. As well as the circuit staff sporting an authentic look, thousands of spectators made the effort this year, so it wasn’t a surprise to see an abundance of women wearing 1950s cocktail dresses and 1960s pleat dresses. The effervescent crowd at this year’s Goodwood made it feel more like a movie set, as opposed to a racing track.
The West Sussex-based motor circuit opened its gates on September 1948 and provided the setting for Britain’s first post-war motor race venue. Exactly 50 years later to the day, the 9th Duke’s grandson, the current Earl of March, re-enacted the opening of the track with Goodwood Revival, and has since seen the biggest names and cars feature on the famous circuit.
To ensure that the masses achieved the perfect, original vintage, Natasha Bailie Vintage Clothing prescribed advice, tips and styles that helped vintage revellers take Goodwood 2009 by storm. Natasha Bailie has been at the forefront of vintage for many years, and has been an ardent Goodwood fan just as long, so when it came to ‘getting the look’, Natasha was certainly on the right track!
1) The “Vontrapp” Prom Dress incorporates the classic vintage look and is handmade by Brighton designer Amy Phipps. An original 1950s floral fabric has been used to create this beautiful summer dazzler. “This is the perfect dress for idyllic summer strolls and will nestle approvingly into any wedding party,” says Natasha. A dress that speaks a thousand words, and all of them good!
2) This 1950s Prom Dress exudes sophistication and charm, and would be the ideal dress to meet that gorgeous man, dine with friends, or even meet the mother-in-law! “This is the perfect Betty dress. Although it’s rather prim and proper, it will still make you feel sexy and elegant,” says Natasha. This dress will most certainly turn heads on the day.
3) This original 1950s Betty Barclay Prom Dress screams quality and authenticity. The brocade fabric is a clear indication that this dress was once worn by someone with status, and the adorable chiffon layered collar is equal in sophistication. “This is one of my favourite dresses from this period. Quite simply if you wear this dress you will light up any party!” Natasha says. Let’s hope they have sufficient fire exits then.
4) This original 1950s Cocktail Dress with its rare black and gold brocade finish is the true definition of glamour. If you happen to be attending a red carpet event in the near future then this is the dress for you. “This is the perfect prom dress for any Betty, and I for one would happily wear it! Natasha says. N.B: This dress would also look fantastic even if your name’s not Betty!
Goodwood Revival 2009 has always possessed the history to justify the hype surrounding it, but this year the organisers wanted everyone to make even more of a vintage effort – and with Natasha’s passionate vintage styling advice, it’s been achieved.
Enjoying vintage fashion is all about fun and frolics and doesn’t have to be an expensive pastime. It’s also about immersing yourself into an era of your choice; appreciating the style, music and attitude that’s engrained in history, which can so easily be relived by you. So, what are you waiting for? Get some vintage in your life!
If you want further expert vintage fashion advice and ideas, visit www.natashabailie.com