How to Start Dressing in Vintage Style: Creating a CLASSIC LOOK with CONFIDENCE

[@TheGlambassador]

I realize that I didn't directly address the "looking costume-y" issue, but it deals with the whole concept of the classic look. This style is so much more "palatable" to the general public, that it doesn't come off as looking like a costume. It's a recognizable style and look and since it's not attached to a specific era, I feel that is not seen as a costume.

[@theirmanager5204]

This is my personal block I have up that prevents me from really going in on this style. I like lots of individual pieces, but I don’t want to make a spectacle of myself with costume ish attire.

[@TheGlambassador]

@@theirmanager5204 Yeah, this is a common issue I hear from people in the start of their journey. I think some of the costumey feeling comes from the uncertainty of wearing unconventional clothing. For me when I really started to look at the authenticity of the clothing and details of my garments and choose more timeless and authentic looking items, that feeling of being in a costume went away. But of course everyone is different and it may take more time or something completely different for you to view yourself differently.

[@rachelferet3941]

​@@theirmanager5204 hard agree with what @the glambassador said below. I certainly took my time building up from a vaguely vintage style to full on vintage. I also noticed that when my look is more authentic, more people stop me to comment, which, if you're not used to attention, can be awkward. But it's ALWAYS complimentary. If I'm wearing something more on the Amazon retro dresses side, I get stopped less often, but it's STILL always compliments. Even when people have asked if I'm in a play or show, it's never been in a mean spirited way and always followed with, "You look so amazing!" Never once has anyone (openly) been mean or judgy. Best compliment I ever got was from a 6 y/o boy who sent his mother over to tell me I looked like a Disney princess ♥️

[@theirmanager5204]

@@TheGlambassador after I commented this, I took stock of my wardrobe. Which I can’t remember if you said to do in this video or another video, but I did it. I’ve been an admirer of vintage for a long time and so I realized I have built up a little cache of pieces. It’s all great advice, thanks so much. I even went a little crazy and cut my hair off. It was down to my butt and I researched how to do a u shaped cut on myself and just went for it! 😂 it’s right below my shoulder now, and it looks great!

[@theirmanager5204]

@@rachelferet3941 that’s amazing! I love this advice as well. Im feeling my confidence building a little, the more I read and watch and also the more I turn it over in my head. What tht little boy said is so cute, it must have made your day! ❤️

[@anyagarin]

Not only have you given me confidence to go vintage, you've given me confidence in being a plus size. I put on so much weight after my fourth pregnancy and I've spent 6 years since in leggings and hoodies debating how I could ever look look good in the style I liked. So truly, thank you.

[@TheGlambassador]

Oh I'm so happy to hear this. Thank you so much for sharing your journey with me. I hope you can continue to find the inspiration you need.

[@raquelnasser5290]

Christine what a great informative video! As a plus size woman I can relate to find plus size clothing. I'm with you, I stick to the classic pieces and add one other element item like maybe a brooch, or flower, scarve, or a hat to pull the look together. Much love to you! ❤️

[@rosevampire70]

My Grandfather told me that confidence comes with practice & I think that is so true.

[@mommabird9704]

Amazing video. Thank you for making this. I've always loved vintage styles so much more than most modern styles, but as a plus size woman I've always thought it would be expensive to have a plus size vintage wardrobe. Mostly because all I ever see is "costume" or supermodel sizes. You seem so confident and happy with yourself and your style, it really helps spreads the confidence. It has helped me. My daughter and I love your channel and are going thrifting this weekend to see what we can find. Thank you.

[@TheGlambassador]

Glad you enjoyed it! Here's hoping the Vintage/Thrifting Gods smile upon you!

[@sherryhicks4156]

I am vintage! I bounce from modern and comfortable to more vintage style. I own pieces from older era that are classic and still work today. I do love vintage shopping. But as a plus size gal myself, it is hard to find pieces in my size. I do wear some men's pieces that can be made to look nice for women. Especially jackets. I wore a lot of these styles in my lifetime. I am a thrift shopper. I do find some things that work. I really can't afford some of the new pieces that are styled old school. I do love long circle skirts and stove pipe trousers.

[@Kitty.Nocturne]

First comment - woot! This was a very helpful video.

[@TheGlambassador]

So glad to hear it. 🥰🥰

[@deborahkessler1092]

As always, a simply wonderful video. It is such a reaffirming conversation. The Eleanor Roosevelt quotes are spot on. This is a terrific resource for someone getting started on the journey to curating a unique personal style as well as totally inspiring to someone like myself who has grown comfortable with herself over the past several years.

[@thedecominimalist]

I love love love this video! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@TheGlambassador]

Thanks for watching!

[@sarahlewis9052]

I love your videos, you are so inspiring!! You said you have been dressing vintage for over thirty years? Amazing! You must have been a toddler! I would think you were 34-35 years old! I didn’t get to pick my own clothes when I was 3, I’m jealous!

[@TheGlambassador]

Ha ha ha! Nope I’m 46, I started dressing in vintage style at 16 and was pretty much wearing it full time by the time I was 20 or so.

[@RavenDreamer]

Hi I'm new to the channel and to dressing vintage, I wore vintage/classic style outside my home for the first time yesterday (I wore a beige & brown short-sleeved polkadot pussybow blouse with brown a-line skirt, brouges, straw boater & satchel bag ) and I had never felt more *me* dressing like this, I even got complimented on my outfit! 🤎 I'm happy I came across your channel.

[@TheGlambassador]

Oh I’m so glad you found my channel. Your outfit sounds just darling and I’m happy you felt so wonderful wearing it. ❤️

[@msamios.321]

Yes! I adore this content. While I enjoy vintage styling, full-on vintage isn't really me. I want to be put together, in a timeless fashion. Confidence is timeless and classy...and something I need to work on! You provide so much inspiration; your approach to your vintage style is classy, and largely timeless. Thank you, as always, for your superb content!

[@msamios.321]

I need to rewatch your video on styling a dress different ways. I love that video. It's one of my favorites.

[@TheGlambassador]

Yes, creating a timeless, classic look will never go out of style. Have you watched my video on what it means to look "Put Together"? Or how to create your personal style? Those videos might also be helpful for you.

[@msamios.321]

@@TheGlambassador Yes! It was one of the first videos of yours that I saw. I think I found your channel in 2021, and I've been subscribed for a while now. You provide so much helpful content, not just for establishing a vintage style, but also for those of us who have finally gotten around to realize that we deserve to respect ourselves and look but together and stylish everyday, not just for special occasions. One would think that I might have managed to do that before now, but I guess blossoming at 57 is better than not blossoming at all. :~)

[@msamios.321]

@@TheGlambassador Oh.. And thank you for the videos you have done on eShakti dresses. I wish I had a larger wardrobe budget so that I could invest in more pieces!

[@msamios.321]

​@@joannathesinger770 Want some possibly silly advice? Imagine that you are reading a book or watching a movie about Athena showing up in a coastal town (pick the era based on your favorite accoutrements) trying to blend in. I am learning to dress as myself as the me I want to be. It just took me decades to figure that out, as an introvert with ADHD and three children (the children are all grown now, so that has given me time to focus of figuring out me for a bit!). It's an adventure. I hope you enjoy yours!

[@aussiejubes]

Im a disability support worker so I wear leggings, quick dry joggers & t shirts 🫤 I can't even do my hair because especially in summer here (Australia) I sweat & my hair just needs to be up in a bun so it's easy for me & won't get pulled, which some people like to do to hair. I've tried upping my work clothing game but it's just not practical & sadly that means I rarely get to wear nice things. However I've just taken the plunge & ordered some new duds from Unique Vintage & will have to ensure I make plans so I can finally wear some vintage clothes. I've noticed that most of the reproduction wear for plus sizes are gimmicky, clichèd clown wear. Costumes. WORSE is that my cup size is too big to find reproduction bras, so my clothed fit authentically. I've even spoken to a bespoke bra maker here & she said she doesn't want to do it ao I guess I need to learn how to make my own boulder holders.

[@marilys3549]

I love love love 40ish clothing style It started with my mom's 49er jackets (I love pendleton wool) In the late 80's and 90's I loved dresses that gave a nod to the 40s. I bought some fabric and some vintage sewing patterns and I'm going to sew some 40s blouses, dresses and pants. I loved your shoe video. I'm thinking of buying a pair of shoes from Rocket Original you showed them in green.... cute!!! I have excited about about making a dress or two. On another note I have a condition call lipedema. It is a genetic lipid disorder driven by hormones that women can inherent. It distributes fibrotic fat in a distinctive pattern, upper arm, disproportionate weight on the buttocks thighs and lower calves down to the ankle. With the upper torso being more slender. There is a connective tissue disorder associated with it like plantar fasciitis. When I looked you I'm wondering if you also might have it. I wish I would have been diagnosed back in my 20's instead of my 60's. KZbin has many videos on the disorder. I always had a difficult time with my weight even though I dieted all my life. Just check it out. I'm a member of Lipedema Simplified. You are a beautiful woman and I'm sure your health is important to you . If you want to contact me for more info please feel free to email me.

[@vivianking8143]

This was so interesting. I dress and flourish in the period 1700-1800. I wear long skirts/blouse, dresses of different styles, hats on occasion. Tasha Tudor is a wonderful encouragement and example for me, in dress and lifestyle. I have been living such for almost 20 yrs now and never tire of it. Again, thanks for sharing. You look lovely in your styles. In Joy

[@c.r4038]

Great video! I have slowly been incorporating pieces to my wardrobe over the past 8 months and I love it. Truly timeless, classic fashion. Not turning back.

[@Kittysews]

I never thought about how it would be now vs 90s but I imagine it's a bit like how now there is a pretty big trend on 90s and early 00s not everyone dresses like that but it isn't like a shocking thing to see both authentic and y2k inspired fashion

[@TheGlambassador]

Yes, that's a good point. I think that's essentially what it was like when I was first starting out, there were more people around who were alive during those eras and it just was more comfortable for people.

[@mllep3259]

My wardrobe is about 95% thrift, most of it vintage. I am not a plus size person and my plus size co-workers will often say oh, of course YOU can find things at the thrift. I cannot tell you how much great stuff I see at the many many places I go, that is in larger sizes, both for women and men! I'm talking from xl up to 3x and sometimes larger. I wish they'd believe me and give it a try.

[@TheGlambassador]

As a plus size person I'll say that while yes, there are labeled plus size vintage items to be found at thrift stores, the problem usually is that sizes aren't universal. It may be labeled as XL or 3XL, but the measurements often don't match up to our bodies. But as I said it's a marathon, I've been collecting for 30 years and I still struggle with finding items in my size. I can understand the frustration and not wanting to waste time looking for things that are more likely than not either not there or they don't fit properly.

[@lilyt5855]

@@TheGlambassador ah, I can't say how many times I've delightedly snatched a 3x size vintage item off a thrift store rack only to look closer and see it fits more like a XL. :(

[@TheGlambassador]

@@lilyt5855 oh yeah, that is such a heart dropping feeling, isn’t it? So disappointing.

[@missgingerjones]

Yes!! You’ve put everything in my brain into a video! 😆 I especially love the part about confidence. “Why not tell yourself a better lie?” really resonated with me. And I can attest to Target!

[@TheGlambassador]

I'm so glad that my time swimming around your brain was useful 😂 And yeah when Target really puts their mind to things and collabs with great designers, they really end up making amazing things. I still have items from their Isaac Mizrahi line a gazillion years ago that have such a beautiful vintage vibe to them.

[@pj595]

I think this vintage style really works for plus size. So mamy plus size ladies dress so sloppy. You ma'am looking stunning!!

[@TheGlambassador]

Thank you, but let's try to remember not to put others down while complimenting some. You have to remember that us plus size women have had far less options when it comes to fashion and we've have been denigrated for many years because of our size. That can take huge toll on ones confidence. I also acknowledge the financial privilege I have to make the style decisions that I've made. I understand that it's not always possible for people to spend money on fashionable clothing. I just ask that you consider kindness before commenting in a public forum. Other people can read this.

[@gillesjubeault107]

Dear Christine, thank you very much for this video! this is exactly the answers I was looking for! I'm not confident with vintage, so the classic style suits me well, I have some in my dressing room. For hairdressing I always use curlers, so no worries! Thanks again for this interesting sharing, it gives me back my self confidence! Have a beautiful week! Matilda.

[@TheGlambassador]

Glad it was helpful!

[@amberpayne7917]

Such great information! Thank you!

[@TheGlambassador]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Ponitypon]

great video! love it :)

[@hilary2691]

This is such a wonderful, helpful post. A standard length for the skirts you mention would be just below knee? I ask as I would undoubtedly need mine shortening :-) A video/post on ideas for shoes to match would be great too. Thank you for the inspiring content!

[@TheGlambassador]

There really is no standard length for skirts unless you are trying to be historically accurate, and then it really depends on the era you are dressing in. For a classic look, just go for what ever length you are comfortable with. As for shoes, I have a video on my favorite vintage reproduction and vintage-style shoes. You should check it out.

[@lucieavokado4938]

Thank you for this video! It helped me❤❤

[@TheGlambassador]

I'm so glad!

[@donnamcardle8928]

You look amazing in all styles, love your confidence, makes you even more beautiful

[@TheGlambassador]

Thank you so much

[@winnieroberts6292]

I loved this video ❤️ even tho I'm not a beginner in vintage, I still took away some great ideas too! I attach the memories of my Nanna and Grandma to the style I wear and that gives me some confidence. I sew most of my clothes because I often can't afford to buy what I would love but so did my Nanna and Grandma 😍

[@extrastout1741]

🤍💙🤍

[@gloriiaserdiukova7741]

"I have been dressing in vintage style for over 30 years now " what?🤯 sorry for touching this sensitive point but I thought you are like 35 or something?

[@TheGlambassador]

It’s not a sensitive point at all. I’m proud to say I’m 47.

[@gloriiaserdiukova7741]

@@TheGlambassador wow! Just wow 👏👏 it's incredible! (Start believing in witch crafts 😜😉🤣) You are gorgeous 🤩 really love your videos

[@thevintagebimbler]

Very informative video. As someone who has some distinct styles in the past, I've rather lost my way. This has reminded me what I love about classic style. I also liked you incorporated confidence as an element very helpful for those starting out or younger individuals needing a boost.

[@TheGlambassador]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@armsamelia]

Thank you so much for this. I am 19 but want to start dressing vintage as I recently found a love for old Hollywood. Specifically the put together, chic “parisian” look as I call it. I also didn’t know how to tell my family and friends about my sudden change in wardrobe so thanks for your help!

[@TheGlambassador]

You are so welcome!

[@snowyskylar8821]

Lipstick name in this broadcast please ❤?😊

[@jillianlea9690]

I love this video so much! The real life examples and common brands. I found the trouser advice really helpful . I also realized I am doubting all of my knowledge when shopping and i should not . I have blouses and pieces with classic style . I am just looking to step it up and be more authentic . I still think it would be great if you expanded on this and did more examples of modern pieces you see in shops . I connect with your aesthetic and style and I think many viewers obviously feel the same ...so seeing you shop or style modern pieces, maybe cheaper pieces, like you touched upon here , would help :) always a fun watch . ..and awesome you do style sessions.

[@Amelia-d7v8s]

❤ celebrate vintage whenever you feel like it! May not be all the time but I'm in love with Polka dots.. 😊

[@MacJess]

Lovely, positive video. Thank you! I am trying to find hats at the moment to take the next step. Wish me luck 😊

[@TheGlambassador]

Fantastic!!! I wish you the best of luck. I always find beautiful hats on Esty and eBay, definitely check those out.

[@MacJess]

@@TheGlambassador Etsy it was 😁 What stunning hats. Had to limit myself for 2, although I could have gone for more 🤩

[@TheGlambassador]

@@MacJess that’s great!! I’m sure you picked some fabulous ones. Enjoy them.

[@Yana.Polyanichko]

Dear Christine, thank you so much! So much inspiration your videos have! So much inspiration you have, so much beauty! This is so important, especially in this terrible period that people are now forced to live through. I fully agree with all your comments and of course with your comments at the end of the video about confidence and especially about our thoughts, about what we think about ourselves, that we have to learn how to monitor, control and change it for our own good. And really, we must always remember that people do not think about us as much as we think, everyone is busy with themselves, and we need to live our lives happily. Thank you so much, Christine!

[@darlenehillery6574]

Love. Vintage u make look chic

[@ammiller3911]

I just found your channel and I absolutely love it! I have been dressing vintage since the 90s as well, but I have sort of got out of it when I got serious about my career. But things are more acceptable now, and I am still fascinated with beautiful vintage looks, hence I found your channel! Thanks for the great content.

[@TheGlambassador]

I’m glad you found me!

[@aleshaw2204]

Thank you so much for another wonderful, helpful video! I struggle with finding 1940s classic looking clothes in my area. I worry about ordering online because I don’t know if it will fit me right. I will have to get my measurements I guess and order from ModCloth and eShakti. I also struggle with finding shoes and worry about if they fit or will be comfortable for me..how would you suggest I find vintage shoes? And also where can I find vintage shoes and not pay a fortune for them?

[@TheGlambassador]

I have a video about my favorite shoes, it might help to answer some of your questions. I don't often wear vintage shoes, but I've found some great vintage reproduction shoe companies and there are some modern companies that still make very classic style shoes. I have a list in my shoe video.

[@juliaforsyth8332]

I am a mature plus size who would love to do 1930's/40's but I see nobody on KZbin doing it. Any ideas? Also I have very fine hair. I love Eleanor Roosevelt, I would love to do a paper on her at Uni.

[@TheGlambassador]

Well, I’m a plus size woman doing 30s and 40s styles on KZbin so I’d say start with my channel. I have loads of tutorials and information on dressing and styling for these eras.

[@frankieamsden7918]

Is that green Burgenland I spy at the beginning of the video? I collect the burgundy.

[@TheGlambassador]

It sure is! I got a really good set of it when I lived in Germany.

[@frankieamsden7918]

@@TheGlambassador Awesome!

[@luvnalaska44]

Such great advice! Classic shaped pieces mixed with vintage elements is so much easier to do. This was a fantastic video. Thank you!

[@TheGlambassador]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@2Beautiess]

This was an amazing video and your such an inspiration. I usually will occasionally dress in swing dresses and wiggle dresses but I've really been into adding some classic pieces too and this really helped me. I just started collecting vintage jewelry and Brooches via estate sales, websites and such. It's been so fun. Thank you for opening up my mind even more. Your words really impacted me. 🥰

[@TheGlambassador]

I’m so glad you liked it.

[@angelagrimes8237]

Wow! Perfect for me right now! Thank you for covering the challenge of deciding to and then following through with a vintage look.

[@TheGlambassador]

You are so welcome! I hope it was useful for you.

[@tinypablo4920]

This was very lovely to watch but can you make more videos on this topic like how do you dress full on vintage like 30s/40s for a beginner guide like an updated version I watched literally all videos on youtube about dressing vintage

[@TheGlambassador]

I have two videos on 1930s and 1940s style details. I would start with those. But sure I can try and do more videos like this. 🥰

[@theirmanager5204]

I just found you recently ❤️ you’re great, keep it up

[@TheGlambassador]

Welcome aboard!

[@cathyb52480]

I just discovered your channel over the weekend (looking at vintage hairstyles for curly hair - I ordered some hair combs yesterday!) and have been having fun checking out your various videos. Thanks for all the hard work you put into your channel! So interesting and enjoyable!

[@TheGlambassador]

Wonderful! I'm so glad you found me. I hope you love the hair combs, did you get the Grip Tuth combs?

[@cathyb52480]

@@TheGlambassador Yes I did. I sometimes use a hairband to get my hair off my face and after watching your video I thought the hair combs might be a better option and give a more classic silhouette.

[@christiana_mandalynn]

This may be the greatest, most helpful video I have ever seen on YT 🥺🥹🥲 thank you soooooo much. My heart is bursting with gratitude. I am so glad to have found you via Pinterest.

[@TheGlambassador]

This makes me so happy to hear!! I’m glad that my video was helpful for you. 🥰