How to Make Your Own Retro Costume
- 1). Research the time period you are interested in representing in your costume. It may be easier to find pieces from more recent periods such as the 1980s than from the '20s or '30s. Pick the time period you want to portray, based on this research.
- 2). Look through the clothing you already own to find basic pieces that can be used or adjusted to fit the costume you are making. Jeans have been popular for many generations, so they may be useful. Items such as button-down shirts or basic dresses seldom go out of style.
- 3). Shop at thrift stores to find vintage pieces of clothing and accessories for reasonable prices. Vintage clothing stores can be found in major cities, but the selection may be more expensive.
- 4). Look in fashion magazines to find current styles that mimic retro fashion. Bohemian clothing made from jean and suede fabrics is a retro look that is still in style. Dresses in 1950s style are popular among rockabilly fans.
- 5). Sew your own clothing items by using vintage patterns that can be found online and in some sewing stores. Many retro fashions have basic straight lines, such as 1970s shift dresses.
- 6). Assemble the pieces you have accumulated, and note any accessories that can be added, such as scarves, hats, sunglasses or jewelry. Find such pieces in thrift stores or in stores that sell costume jewelry.
- 7). Wear a wig with your costume, or style your hair in the look of the period to complete your look. Hair styles change over time, and each decade has a distinct concept of what is fashionable. In the 1920s, finger waves were common; in the '70s, women wore long hair or shag haircuts.