Slim Aarons made a name for himself photographing the beautiful and well-to-do at leisure during the ’60s and ’70s: Marella Agnelli lounging at home in Tuscany, guests gathered at a house party in Palm Springs, holiday-goers poolside at the iconic Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes, France. The latest spring collectsions channel the elegance of those decades with punchy prints and saturated color. The effect is an escapist allure, ready for a splash at any moment.
How to Get the Retro Summer Look:
On the runways, the mood unfolded in various ways: At Ralph Lauren and Zankov, graphic stripes and statement jewelry distilled this sun-drenched, high-summer mood. At Chloé, Chemena Kamali embraced a more romantic take, sending out floral dresses that nodded to ’50s silhouettes. With soft draping and breezy construction, the look felt nostalgic, yet the ease of wear kept it modern. Elsewhere, Khaite and Dries Van Noten leaned into bold, graphic impact. The former sent out an oversized black and white polka dot skirt—a wink to the retro print—styled with a textured top and gladiator sandals, while Dries Van Noten’s red and white abstract set evoked Mediterranean nonchalance.
The beauty of the retro summer mood is that it brings a spirited jolt to your spring and summer wardrobe, without feeling like costume. Whether you’re packing for a weekend away, dressing for a rooftop dinner, or simply looking to inject a little more personality into your everyday uniform, it strikes the balance between maximalist and wearable.
Below, discover 8 outfit ideas to get into the retro summer mood.
Summer in the City
Craving a touch of the beach while still commuting to your 9-to-5? Try a striped sweater paired with a colorful printed sarong, knotted over tailored trousers. It’s playful yet polished, with just enough escapism woven into your everyday uniform.
A Touch of Floral
An easy entry point into the retro summer mood starts with a floral top. Opt for Chloé’s printed bodysuit, grounded by laid-back denim and finished with a raffia bag—a balance of romantic and relaxed, it’s just the right amount of nostalgia for everyday wear.
Seeing Spots
For the minimalist, graphic polka dots offer a refined way into the retro summer mood. Let Khaite’s sweeping skirt do the talking, styled with Leset’s satin top and Margaux strappy sandals.
Cabana Calling
Nothing signals retro summer quite like an oversized raffia hat. Straight off the runways, Ralph Lauren’s wide-brim style is made to turn heads. Pair it with a breezy striped dress and finish with vibrant pops of color through your accessories.
Unexpected Pairings
The best wardrobes are built around pieces that move effortlessly between occasions. TWP’s striped button-down feels just as right at the office as it does layered over a bikini on your next escape. For beachside dressing, lean into the mood with shield sunglasses, a bright sarong, and red sandals.
Retro Sport
Get into the spirit through bold color pairings. Guest in Residence’s polo top lends a sporty edge, while Zankov’s mesh skirt, a beaded necklace, and colorful flip-flops keep the look in vacation territory.
Spotted and Striped
When done right, mixing prints doesn’t clash—it elevates. Pair Ralph Lauren’s striped sweater with Prada’s polka dot scarf, tied nonchalantly at the waist.
Getaway-Ready
If those beachside daydreams finally made it out of the group chat, consider this your cue to go all in. Dries Van Noten’s abstract kaftan layers effortlessly over Lido’s bright pink swimsuit, for a balance of bold and chic.
