In the fall I wrote a post about the return of 70’s fashion, and how I was having a major disco-vibes moment.  It wasn’t until my last shoot when I was looking through my photos, I realized how much I’ve been incorporating retro fits into my outfits.  Funny enough, the 70’s hasn’t been the only decade that’s been my source of inspiration.

I feel like whenever a style or fit from a previous era returns, the general reaction of the masses is usually the same: “OMG really?  Is that coming back in style?”  “Are people really going to start wearing [insert fit here] again?  I’ll never get on board with that.”  Two months later, they’re flaunting the look.

I’ll admit, my initial reaction is often the same.  I’ve come to understand it’s usually because it’s intimidating!   Even though it’s technically not a “new” style, at first it feels foreign and out of place with what’s currently trending. Then I remember, this is what makes fashion so fun!  It’s about finding a way to give it a modern twist and incorporate retro trends into your own personal style. Also, not every trend is meant for everyone!  I still cannot get behind the dad shoe trend, and probably never will! 

Here are some retro-inspired trends I’ve been rocking lately:

Trend #1: Biker Shorts

I think we owe the credit to Kim Kardashian for bringing back the 90’s bike short trend.  This is one of those trends I was hesitant about for a while, especially being petite. Long shorts that cut off your legs?

 After trying on a pair, it realized the key to rocking the trend is finding the right fit.  As a petite, you want a high-waisted, longer pair: one that sits on the narrowest part of your waist and falls right above the knee.  If you have curves like me, this is a style where you really get to show them off!    

This denim pair I am wearing is from a collaboration with Hidden Jeans.  They are a high-quality denim brand based here in LA, and carry the cutest, trendiest styles at affordable prices.  I saw this pair on their website and immediately became obsessed.  Bike shorts are usually spandex of some sort, so a denim pair was so intriguing to me!  They have this 50’s peddle-pusher vibe that give a whole new take on the trend. 

I think one of the key’s to rocking bike shorts is styling them to your body type.   Dressing them up with heels is a very popular take on the trend, which is what I did here.  It’s a great way for petites to rock the trend to add length to the legs.  I decided to channel the 50’s in this look by pairing them with a tied white button-down shirt, and red cat-eye shaped sunglasses.  If you are petite with short legs like me, your best bet is to probably wear a cropped length shirt to show off as much leg as possible.   Or you can try the look with an oversized blazer clinched tightly at the waist.  Tall girls with long legs?  Combat boots and oversized sweaters are fun look to rock with the shorts! One things for sure, bike shorts are the perfect spring trend.

Trend #2: Go-Go Boots

It’s Spring an I’m still rocking my white ankle boots!  Calf-length Go-Go boots were the rage in the 70’s, so the ankle length helps keep the look current.  This top was a great Shein find.  I love the bell sleeve detail which keeps in line with the 70’s theme.  I paired it with denim mini skirt with a modern style and shorter length to help keep the look fresh.  The 70’s newsboy hat trend is starting to fade, but I don’t care! I like the look and it went with the 70’s theme so I threw it on.  I didn’t even realize that this retro looking door was here until I started shooting. I think it helps complete the whole look!

Trend #3: Flare Jeans

I have been looking for a good pair of denim flare jeans for a while, and finally found this pair at Zara.  To be honest, they are a little too long.  I am wearing them with 5 inch heels (that are hidden) so I will probably get them hemmed.  Flare jeans are a great look for petites, especially because you can get away with wearing high heels underneath them that aren’t visible to fake a longer leg.  It reminds me of the clowns at the circus so I call it the “stilt trick!” 

I had some fun here and went full retro vibes here with the top and the glasses.   I’m excited to incorporate these jeans into different, more modern looks in the future though.  

What are some of your favorite retro-inspired spring trends?  Do you have any fits you’ve been incorporating into your outfits lately?  Let me know in the comments below!