Vintage-inspired fashion will never go out of style. Whether you're working a head-to-toe retro look or accenting your ensemble with unique vintage pieces, the results are never short of cool. New York fashion stylist and creative consultant Emma Sousa demonstrates her mastery of vintage-inspired stylings in a modern way on her aptly named site A Vintage Vice. A single scroll through her Instagram feed serves up serious style inspiration—from shots of her work with clients to her personal ensembles that show off an eclectic collection of covetable pieces that look like they've been pulled right off the rack of a vintage store. To prove that vintage-inspired outfits will stay current season after season, we've rounded up Sousa's coolest looks right here.
A lover of vintage style and a master of modernizing it in ways that feel fresh and fashion-forward, Sousa knows better than most "fashion's cyclical nature and how so many modern trends are rooted in vintage."
"In my personal opinion, there is nothing chicer than a woman in a suit," declares Sousa. "Whether you go sharp and tailored or light and loose, it's clean, put-together, and effortless."
Monochrome dressing brings an eclectic mix of pieces together with polished results.
"Talk about business in the front, party in the back," notes Sousa. "I paired my oversize shirt with breezy strip culottes, simple oxfords, and a pop of color clutch."
Gingham is back in a big way and looks even cooler paired with unexpected florals and a modern bag in a bold colorway.
"This was the perfect tent dress for a sweltering fashion week and works seamlessly into its apron duties in the fall season with some simple layering techniques," describes Sousa.
Every lover of vintage loves the opportunity to layer.
A jean skirt makes a statement in a midi silhouette and zipper detailing.
Sousa describes this ensemble—topped off with a raw-edged ruffle denim blouse—as one of her favorite looks to date. "Together, it's effortlessly chic and foolproof no matter the season," she notes.
"The deep orange color in this floral blouse by Romwe is one of my favorites and complements the caramel leather of the mules," says Sousa.
"Why not open up a floral shirtdress and pair it with orange leather pants and metallic sneakers?" asks Sousa. "Why not add a Western belt and structural accessories?"
"From five-dollar vintage cutoffs to discovering the newest denim brands all over the U.S., denim is one of my favorite categories," confesses Sousa. "A closet staple but constantly being reinvented and reimagined, jeans in any color, shape, and form create a great palette to build your look upon."
The key to well-executed vintage-inspired fashion come with the attitude. An effortless approach that's easy and playful with style will always yield the best results.
