Retro Glamour DTI lets you explore classic fashion from the 1920s to the 1960s. In this guide, we’ll show you how to create a stylish Retro Glamour Dress to Impress outfit, with tips on picking the right era, finding the perfect dress, and adding finishing touches to complete your look.

Retro Glamour DTI theme explained

The Retro Glamour Dress to Impress theme is inspired by the fashion trends from the 1920s to the 1960s. It’s all about looking elegant and sophisticated with styles like the flapper dresses of the 1920s, glamorous gowns from the 1930s and 1940s, and the playful, pin-up looks of the 1950s. The 1960s brought in sleek, mod dresses with simple lines and bold prints. Dresses often use rich fabrics like satin, velvet, and silk to create a luxurious look that’s still timeless today.

The DTI outfits in this theme focus on flattering shapes, such as dresses that cinch at the waist or have full skirts that create an hourglass figure. Accessories like bold jewelry, vintage heels, gloves, and classic red lipstick complete the look. Hair styles like finger waves or victory rolls help bring the full retro glamour to life. The idea is to dress in a way that feels elegant, stylish, and confident while embracing the charm of past fashion.

Make winner Retro Glamour Dress to Impress outfits in 8 steps

Creating the best Retro Glamour Dress to Impress outfit that will climb DTI ranks fast, involves a careful blend of style, attention to detail, and a nod to vintage glamour.

Step 1: Choose your era

The first step is deciding which vintage era you want to draw inspiration from. Here’s a brief rundown of popular choices:

• 1920s (Flapper Chic): Think sleek, straight lines, short dresses with fringes, beads, and embellishments.
• 1930s-1940s (Hollywood Glamour): Opt for long, figure-flattering gowns with luxurious fabrics like satin or silk.

• 1950s (Pin-Up Style): Full skirts, fitted bodices, and playful yet elegant designs.
• 1960s (Mod Style): Sleek, minimalist dresses with bold prints or geometric shapes.

Step 2: Pick the perfect dress

Once you’ve chosen your era, it’s time to find a dress that fits the style you’re aiming for. Consider the following when selecting your outfit:

• For the 1920s: A flapper dress with beads, fringe, or Art Deco patterns. These dresses often feature a loose, drop-waist silhouette and reach around knee-length. Look for silk or chiffon fabrics for that authentic vibe.
• For the 1930s-1940s: Go for a sleek, figure-hugging gown made from luxurious fabrics like velvet, satin, or silk. Choose one with draping, a bias-cut, or gathered details to enhance the glamour.
• For the 1950s: A fit-and-flare dress that cinches at the waist, often with a full skirt. Choose something with vivid colors, polka dots, or floral prints. Fabric choices might include cotton, taffeta, or silk.
• For the 1960s: A shift dress with clean lines and bold geometric patterns or solid colors. Think about a dress that’s slightly above the knee with a minimalist feel.

Step 3: Focus on fit

Ensure the DTI dress fits your body like a glove. Retro glamour is all about accentuating your natural shape. If necessary, get the dress tailored to ensure it hugs the right curves and creates a flawless silhouette.

• Hourglass shape: If you have an hourglass figure, look for dresses that emphasize your waist, such as those with a peplum detail or belt at the waist.

• Straight shape: Consider dresses that add volume to the hips or bust, like a full skirt or a dress with ruffles to create balance.
• Petite shape: A shorter dress (like the 1920s flapper style) or A-line shapes will elongate the body, keeping it proportional.

Step 4: Select the right accessories

Retro glamour is all about attention to detail—the right accessories can elevate your outfit. Here’s how to choose:

• Jewelry: Opt for statement pieces like bold pearls, vintage brooches, or diamond-studded earrings (if channeling 1930s-1940s glamour). For 1920s, think long pearl necklaces, beaded headbands, or dangling earrings. In the 1950s, chunky bracelets and cat-eye rings would be ideal.
• Shoes: Depending on the era, choose stiletto heels, glittery sandals, or Mary Jane flats. For a 1950s look, go for classic kitten heels, or for the 1920s, opt for T-strap heels that match the vintage style.
• Clutch: A small, metallic clutch or vintage-inspired purse is essential for adding that final touch. Look for something with a beaded design, satin finish, or metal accents.
• Gloves: Long gloves are a great way to elevate your look. Choose satin or lace gloves, especially for 1930s-1940s Hollywood glamour.

• Scarves or shawls: A fur stole or silk scarf can add drama and sophistication, especially for 1930s-1940s looks.

Step 5: Create the right hairstyle

A retro glamour look isn’t complete without the perfect hairstyle. 

• 1920s: Try finger waves, a bob cut, or a sleek, short hairstyle with accessories like a headband or feathered clips.
• 1930s-1940s: Go for soft curls, victory rolls, or Hollywood waves for a vintage, glamorous look. Pin curls can also add that retro flair.
• 1950s: You can embrace voluminous curls, pin-up rolls, or the iconic bouffant. Think about adding vintage-inspired hair accessories like a floral clip or hairband.
   

• 1960s: Beehives, bouffant styles, or sleek bobs were the trend. A high ponytail with a twist could also work well for this era.

Step 6: Go for vintage-inspired makeup

To pull off a retro glamour look, makeup is essential. Here’s how to achieve the perfect vintage-inspired face:

• 1920s-1940s: Focus on a bold lip (classic red or deep berry), winged eyeliner, and defined eyebrows. Make sure your skin is flawlessly smooth with a matte finish.
   

• 1950s: A bold cat-eye eyeliner with red lips is essential. Add a bit of blush for a pop of color on your cheeks.
• 1960s: Bold eyeliner on both the upper and lower lash lines (think Twiggy-style), with false lashes for added drama, and a neutral lip color (or peachy tones) for a more youthful appearance.

Step 7: Play with colors and patterns

• Jewel Tones (1930s-1940s): Rich colors like emerald green, deep red, or navy blue were classic. For 1920s, metallic shades or black and gold would fit.
• Pastels and Polka Dots (1950s): Soft pastels like mint green, baby blue, and peach paired with playful polka dots are perfect for the 1950s look.
• Bold Prints (1960s): Geometric prints, bold patterns, and graphic designs in bright, contrasting colors work best for a mod 1960s look.

Step 8: Final check

Before you step out the door, do a final check:

• Are your accessories aligned with the era you’ve chosen?
• Does your dress fit well and flatter your body shape?
• Have you incorporated a bit of vintage flair into your hairstyle and makeup?