With so many fashion designers competing to turn countless ideas into exciting new creations, and with the constant pressure to win over fashion lovers everywhere, the world of fashion today is as challenging as it is captivating.
At the same time, there are designers who turn to the past, taking inspiration from vintage silhouettes and updating their retro charm with contemporary elements.
This balance is the beauty and magic of fashion today.
We could almost hear the cool kids saying, “Give me vintage, but make it now!”.
A fitting example of this can be seen in Datuk Seri Bernard Chandran’s latest creation showcased recently.
The beige short-sleeved top-and-pants ensemble is decked with batik motifs, bedazzled in iridescent sequins that shimmer like a disco dream.
With its bright and breezy florals, the outfit has a groovy 70s hippie vibe.
Completing the look? A pair of Japanese flip-flops encrusted with rhinestones.
Read more: Why is everyone suddenly wearing brown? Fashion’s new neutral emerges
Rolling back to the 1960s, Kate Spade New York delivers a leopard-print fitted dress with a deep V neckline, which is a clear nod to screen siren Marilyn Monroe. Sexy, sultry and timeless.
Brimming with personality and craft rooted in familial nostalgia, Tory Burch presents a cardigan-and-slim-skirt set with a lovely vintage charm.
The cardigan has hand-embroidered birds made of seed beads inspired by an antique tapestry chair from her mother’s home.
Now this is what you call a Spring/Summer 2026 look that’s set to take flight.
And who could forget the roaring 20s? It’s back with a bang this season at Michael Kors.
While the original fringed flapper dress was a party icon, Kors’s reinterpretation takes the form of a sleeveless double-breasted blazer with long fringes flowing over the legs.
It’s an office-to-cocktail creation that does not require pit stops at home. Talk about fringe benefits!
Any of you remember Don Johnson in Miami Vice?
The quintessential 1980s TV detective James “Sonny” Crocket rocked pastel tones and breezy linen suits.
Read more: Knot so basic: The little twist making a big fashion statement
His soft swagger and suits in soothing shades were a major part of the show’s appeal, shaping men’s fashion of the time.
Now, the style is resurrected at Giorgio Armani and dare we say the modern gentleman will pull off the look with flying colours.
After the glitz and glamour of the 80s came the minimalist wave, which was the calling card of the 1990s.
Sleek, slightly sporty and fuss-free, it was fashion with no strings attached.
On Calvin Klein’s runway, a simple black dress with clean lines is a throwback knockout to the decade.
We love this look as it is effortless, versatile and ready to wear.
Just what we need for today’s fast-paced modern life.
