Vintage Pin-Up Summer Fashion

The vintage style of the 1940s and 1950s is hot this summer. If you're seeking a look that channels the old-school glamour and coquette sass of Marilyn Monroe or Bettie Page, these tips will help you find everything you need for a summer wardrobe befitting a pin-up girl.

One of the most essential pieces of summer wear is the swim suit. Luckily, retro style is in this summer, so vintage-looking swim suits can be found at many chain retail establishments such as Old Navy and Target. Look for swimsuits with polka dots, bikinis and one-pieces with halter straps, and skirted bottoms. Specialty websites which offer vintage reproduction swim suits include My Baby Jo and Pin Up Girl Clothing. These online shops stock adorable one and two-piece swimsuits in cute vintage patterns such as polka dot, cherry print, hawaiian print, zebra, and leopard. A kimono-style wrap cover-up is great for lounging by the pool.

Retro footwear is everywhere this summer. Espadrilles, mary janes, and canvas wedges are staples of vintage summertime fashion. Polka-dot print shoes seem to be in every store window lately, and are great for a vintage look. Slides, platform slingbacks and lace-up espadrilles are also perfect to wear with retro swimsuits or summer dresses. Ballet flats and canvas mary janes look cute with cuffed jeans, capris and skirts, while swing shoes with chacha heels are perfect for cutting a rug at the local night spots.

Vintage accessories add a touch of class to any summer wardrobe. For protecting your eyes and maintaining a bit of old-Hollywood glamour, cat-eye sunglasses are always a classic. These often come with rhinestones imbedded in the corners for even more vintage appeal. A scarf tied around your head is cute on short or pinned-up hair. If your hair is long, consider keeping the hair off your face with a classic pony tail, pig tails, or elegantly pinned up into an ultra-retro snood. Or, leave the hair down and pin one side back. A flower hair clip pinned behind the ear is a fantastic accessory for a vintage summer outfit.

To keep skin from becoming sun-damaged, consider using a sun umbrella (also known as a parasol). These are definitely poised to make a comeback. Look for Asian floral prints and soft colors for a more authentic retro look. A matching hand fan will keep you cool and perfectly accessorized.

Of course, attitude goes a long way, too. So put on those cat-eye sunglasses, swipe on some red lipstick, and exude the playful glamour of summers past .