Fashion has a funny way of repeating itself, but every time a trend comes back, it gets a modern twist. The retro looks hitting the streets today are a perfect example. We're borrowing the best styles from the '70s, '80s, and '90s and making them feel fresh and new. It's about capturing that vintage vibe without looking like you stepped out of a time machine.

These aren't your grandma's clothes—they're cooler. Think classic denim, bold graphics, and iconic accessories, all remixed for today. Ready to add some authentic, throwback style to your closet? Here’s your guide to the essential retro pieces that are cooler the second time around.

High-Waisted Jeans: The Timeless Foundation

The high-waisted jean is the backbone of any retro-inspired wardrobe. This style was a staple in the '70s and '90s, and it's back for a reason. The fit is incredibly flattering, cinching your waist and creating a classic silhouette. Modern versions take the vintage look and add better fits and sustainable materials.

  • Levi’s 501 Original Fit Jeans: It doesn't get more classic than this. The 501 has been an icon for decades, with a straight-leg cut and button-fly that is pure vintage authenticity. The rigid denim is designed to break in over time, molding to your body for a custom fit that only gets better with wear. Pair them with a simple white tee or a graphic band shirt for an effortless look.
  • Wrangler Heritage Flare Jeans: Channel your inner '70s rockstar with a pair of high-rise flares. Wrangler’s heritage collection brings back the iconic silhouette with a modern fit. The high waist is flattering, while the leg flares out from the knee, creating a dramatic shape that looks amazing with platform boots or chunky heels.
  • Madewell The Perfect Vintage Jean: This style combines the best of retro and modern design. It features a high waist and a tapered straight leg that feels both vintage and current. The denim is often soft with a touch of stretch, making them comfortable from the very first wear. They look like a rare thrift store find, but with a fit that feels made for you.

The Graphic Tee: Wear Your Vibe

A graphic tee is the easiest way to inject some personality and nostalgia into your outfit. Whether it’s a vintage-inspired band tee, a retro brand logo, or a quirky pop culture reference, these shirts are all about self-expression. They add a casual, cool edge to any look.

  • Daydreamer Band Tees: This brand specializes in creating authentic-looking band tees that feel like you’ve owned them for years. With designs featuring icons like Blondie, The Rolling Stones, and David Bowie, their shirts have a super-soft, worn-in feel and a relaxed fit. They are perfect for tucking into high-waisted jeans or layering under a leather jacket.
  • Urban Outfitters Vintage-Inspired Graphic Tees: UO is a great source for tees with retro-inspired graphics, from '90s cartoon characters to old-school brand logos. They capture the playful, nostalgic spirit of past decades, offering a fun way to show off your interests. Look for slightly oversized fits for a more laid-back vibe.
  • Anine Bing Tiger Tee: For a more modern, fashion-forward take on the graphic tee, Anine Bing’s designs are iconic. The Tiger Tee, featuring a bold graphic on a washed black cotton, has become a staple for off-duty models and influencers. It blends a rock-and-roll edge with a high-fashion sensibility.

Cat-Eye Sunglasses: Instant Glamour

Accessories are key to nailing a retro look, and cat-eye sunglasses are a must-have. This style, popular in the '50s and '60s, adds a touch of glamour and mystery to any outfit. Modern versions play with proportions, from sleek and subtle to bold and oversized.

  • Le Specs Air Heart Sunglasses: These have become a modern classic for a reason. The oversized cat-eye shape is dramatic and incredibly chic, offering a dose of old-Hollywood glamour. They are the perfect accessory to make you feel like a star, even if you’re just running errands.
  • Celine Cat-Eye Frames: For a luxury take on the trend, Celine’s cat-eye sunglasses are an investment piece. Known for their thick, acetate frames and bold, angular shapes, they are an unmistakable statement accessory. They feel both vintage and futuristic at the same time.
  • Quay Australia Noosa Sunglasses: This brand offers fun, trendy takes on classic shapes. Their cat-eye styles often come in a variety of colors and lens finishes, from classic black to playful tortoise shell. They are a great way to experiment with the trend and add a fun pop to your look.

The Shacket: The Ultimate Layering Piece

A mix between a shirt and a jacket, the "shacket" is a versatile layering piece with a distinctively retro feel. It's reminiscent of the oversized flannel and corduroy shirts popular in the '90s but with a more structured, jacket-like weight. It’s perfect for transitional weather.

  • H&M Plaid Shacket: An oversized plaid shacket is the quintessential grunge-era throwback. It’s perfect for throwing on over a hoodie or a simple t-shirt for a layered look that feels effortlessly cool. The relaxed fit gives it a comfortable, laid-back vibe.
  • Everlane The Corduroy Chore Jacket: Corduroy was a staple fabric of the '70s, and this jacket brings it into the modern era. With a boxy, workwear-inspired fit and classic corduroy texture, it’s a durable and stylish piece. It adds a touch of rugged, vintage charm to any outfit.

Rocking a retro fit is all about blending the best of the past with your own modern style. It’s about finding those timeless pieces—like a great pair of high-waisted jeans, a worn-in graphic tee, or a pair of statement sunglasses—and making them feel current.