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 collections 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:
Chloé rose-print ruched bodysuit
Jump to review
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.
