How To Style a Vintage Inspired Swing Dress
If you’re familiar with heartmycloset then you’re already well aware of our passion for vintage inspired dresses with that classic, feminine flair. Having said that, there’s one vintage inspired dress that stands out amongst all the rest as one of the most versatile pieces you can have in your wardrobe: a swing dress.
Always flattering, easy to style, and a real statement maker, a swing dress is guaranteed to have you looking and feeling your best, no matter what the occasion.
And so, with that in mind, today we want to share with you some tips for styling a swing dress for a variety of occasions, plus some general style tips if you’re looking to achieve that vintage aesthetic.
What is a swing dress?
First things first, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page about what constitutes a swing dress.
Generally speaking, a swing dress is defined as a loose fitting dress with an A-line shape that “swings” when you walk. Skirts can range from being overtly flared tomore of a subtle flare that gently pulls away from the body. Here’s an example of Kate Middleton showing off a traditional swing dress with a flared skirt.
For our purposes, because we specialize in vintage inspired dresses, you’ll find that almost all of our swing dresses really emphasize the waist, and always have those beloved vintage details, like Peter Pan collars, dainty buttons, figure-defining belts, and bow details.
Either way, whether you’re more drawn to the modern swing dress or the vintage swing dress, there’s no denying that this is an extremely versatile fashion piece that is flattering to all body types. Let us show you how.
How to Style A Swing Dress
As mentioned, the swing dress is one of the most versatile dresses you can have in your wardrobe. Of course, though, as with any fashion piece, there’s always the possibility of not styling the piece correctly for the occasion.
For instance, you might have a flattering swing dress that would work perfectly for the office, but style it with sky-high stilettos, bold lipstick, and dramatic jewelry, and your boss might not be too impressed.
On the other hand, try out this grey tv inspired swing dress, and you’ll fit right in at the office.
Our best rule of thumb: Define the occasion as either “conservative” or “playful.” For conservative, keep your styling more toned down and minimal. For playful, feel free to add those bold accessories that you love.
- Pick flattering/occasion appropriate colors
Here at heartmycloset our swing dresses come in a variety of colors to help you pick the most flattering shades for your skintone. In addition, we want to ensure you have the option to pick occasion appropriate colors.
What do we mean by “occasion appropriate” colors?
To put it simply, certain colors tend to work better for different occasions. For example, a hot pink swing dress might not be great for the office, but it is a striking choice for a date night. In that same vein, a pale blue bow dress might feel more well-suited for the office or a conservative event.
Analyze your lifestyle and pick swing dresses in colors that you’ll get the most use out of.
- Highlight your best features
Sure, you can get the occasion right and pick the most suitable colors, but if you don’t make it a point to consider your body shape, there’s a chance you might not achieve the full potential of the swing dress.
As mentioned, the swing dress has a fit and flare shape, which is flattering on all body types. However, other things you might want to consider when dressing for your body shape include hemline, neckline, sleeve shape, and placement of details, like bows, buttons, and belts.
Check out this guide to dressing your body type, and you should have no issues finding a swing dress that you feel like a million bucks in.
Also, keep in mind, you can always request a custom made dress from us if you want a dress that is tailored to your body.
Tips For Styling A Vintage Inspired Swing Dress
To finish off, because we’re so in love with the vintage aesthetic, we wanted to highlight three of our favorite ‘50s inspired dresses, and give you some tips on how you can style similar pieces to get a vintage feel.
- Grey Swing Dress
With this statement maker of a dress, the dress itself has a vintage quality, but you can add even more vintage flair by styling it with white gloves, matching white pumps and red lipstick.
Shop the Grey Swing Dress here.
- Nottingham Dress
Again, most of our dresses already have that vintage quality, but if you want to ramp up the vintage flair, or add to a more simplistic swing dress, this styling shows off the impact of kitten heels, red lipstick, and an eye-popping brooch.
Shop the Nottingham Swing Dress here.
And last but not least, one of our favorite styles, the Cathy Swing dress is elevated with peep-toe heels, perfectly styled hair, and an attitude :)
Shop the Cathy Swing Dress here.
So, tell us, how do you style your swing dress? Do you go for a vintage inspired twist? Leave all your favorite swing dress styling tips down below.