Guest post: 5 Summer Trends for 2014 - Vintage Style

Today I have a post brought to you by Nick from Mela Mela Vintage, which will especially appeal to those of us in the southern hemisphere easing (eeeeasssing) our way into warmer weather. I used to be an avid follower of "runway trends", always interested in what styles stores would be trying to convince us to buy in a few months time (and then work out how I could find and wear them in a much more economical way.) I must confess I'm pretty clueless about the trends these days, so it is interesting to see just what will be "in" this summer, and how you can adapt these styles to suit your vintage style!

* * * * * * * * *

With the Summer upon us, it’s time to start thinking about our warmer weather wardrobe. We’ve picked out some of London’s hottest vintage Summer trends that will see you through the months to come. 

1. Low heels

For Spring/Summer 2014 your shoes need to be flats, low heels or chunky platforms.  Low strappy heels are a Summer essential, they add femininity to any outfit and work well with skirts as well as cropped, tailored trousers or shorts.  Pick some strappy low-heeled sandals in a metallic shade for extra kudos and style points, and an all round versatile Summer shoe. 

These gold leather strappy sling backs by Stylo are the ultimate Summer shoe, and being original 1950’s wear; they are achingly on trend.

2. 1950’s dresses

1950’s style dresses are massive Spring/Summer style must haves items.  Emilia Wickstead featured them heavily in her SS14 shows.  Opt for debutant style dresses with full skirts and a flirtatious 1950’s style silhouette.  The skirt must reach to below the knee, and you ideally want to choose single coloured silks or satins. 

This 1950’s vintage dress from Mela Mela in burgundy satin is just the ticket.  I love how the cream embroidery lifts the depth of the satin.  The fitted bodice and full skirt are beautifully feminine, and are the perfect 1950’s shape for the Summer ahead.

3. Block colours

Block colours are huge right now after Ralph Lauren went crazy over them in their runway shows.  Opt for 1980’s style power dressing, or simple yet striking monochromes.  Vibrant contrasting colours will really set each other off and make a powerful fashion statement, while monochromes will look classic and sophisticated.

This 1950s shift is a stunning statement dress that is bang on trend for Spring/Summer 2014.   The shot silk really illuminates the dress, and the figure-hugging style is a flattering and alluring cut for the Summer months. 

4. 1930s and 1940s trench coats

As seen on the runways of Dries Van Noten and Carven, the trench is the way forward.  Trench coats are worn open, and loosely belted.  It is far more about being draped in fabric that staying warm or layering up.  Opt for trench coats in jewel shades or tones of grey, rather than dull browns.  Belted dresses are a beautiful way to wear this style as day wear.

This 1940’s coat from bottle green gabardine is the perfect Spring/Summer coat for cool evening walks along the beach or statement wear. 

5.  Florals

Florals are always big news in the warmer months, and every year designers think of new and fresh ways to re-introduce them.  Going vintage with your florals is the perfect solution, as vintage clothing lends itself perfectly to flowery motifs.  The big colours this season are icy pastels, pinks and orange.  So why not pick a vintage floral frock that includes these colour-schemes to be sure to really rock the current floral trend. 

This 1980s taffeta floral dress not only includes the perfect colour palette and a striking floral design, it is also a gorgeous tulip shape that will really make you stand out from the crowd.  The off-the-shoulder neckline adds a sexy allure to the feminine prettiness of the layered skirt and flowery print.  Wear it with low sandals or ballet pumps in soft pastels shades. 

This article on London’s vintage summer trends was written my Nick Williams at Mela Mela Vintage. Mela Mela Vintage changes their stock seasonally, so now is a great time to find that vintage coat or jacket.