Denver Vintage Clothing Stores
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High maintenance, high glamour, and a strong feminine look all highlight the trailblazing styles that paved way for 1950’s fashion. From Joan Crawford to Ava Gardner, Rita Hayworth, and Doris Day, the women of the 1940s put a lot of effort into their personal grooming; there was no running to the grocery store in athleisure and trucker hats.
The key to achieving the look of the era is to examine all aspects of your look – from makeup to hair, to clothes, to accessories.
- Start with the makeup. The staple of 1940’s glam was a bold lipstick in a bright red hue. Simple eye makeup followed with a well-defined arched brow and winged eyeliner to complete the looks. Add a bit of powder and very light blush to smooth the cheeks and you will instantly look as flawless as the starlets of the era.
- Tame the mane. Take your style cues from Gwen Stefani or Dita Von Teese when you approach your hair. If you wear your locks down, try adding loose curls to your ‘do to add a feminine touch. You could even clip one side or half your hair up, to pull the locks out of your face. If you use a smoothing agent or gel you’ll be able to achieve the soft, sleek look of the era. If you are looking for a quicker fix, try a sleek ponytail and loosely curl the ends of your locks.
- Neat and Tailored. From the American Look of the early 1940s to the New Look introduced by Christian Dior in 1947, women’s style was always neat and tailored. The American Look was made of more simple, Utilitarian styles, whereas the New Look romanticized women’s fashion with softer, more feminine, and romantic styles. Either way, the key to achieving the look is to keep your entire outfit neat and tailored.
Finding 1940’s fashion in Denver isn’t as hard as it may seem, but you’ll have to look harder than the closest mall. If you’re looking for authentic period attire, a few places to shop, include:
Regal Vintage
866 South Broadway, Denver
This landmark on the Historic South Broadway Antiques Row specializes in vintage clothing for women, men, and children with matching accessories from the 1890s to 1990s. Owner, James Elliott, carries an incredible assortment of high-quality, unique, and beautiful authentic vintage clothing and accessories.
Buffalo Exchange
1813 Pearl Street, Boulder
Boulder’s hippest consignment shop carries everything from today’s latest styles to designer pieces from yesteryear. A sponsor of this year’s Ball, Buffalo Exchange invites you to bring in your used costumes and vintage clothing and exchange it for another, they will give you a 10% discount on your 1940’s WWII Era Ball purchase. Don’t miss them in the Vintage Fair at the Ball as well.
Birds & Belles
1113 South Pearl Street, Denver
This buy-sell-trade boutique in west Wash Park is known for its unique and eclectic selections. Mixing and matching vintage with new, owner Kyla DeTienne keeps the shop full of coveted items you’ve been pining for.
Wear it Again, Sam!
140 South College Avenue, Fort Collins
This staple northern Colorado boutique is worth the trip to see its incredible assortment of vintage items. Experts in the field of adult costuming for all occasions, this shop will help you find what you’re looking for.
If you want to dress the part, but aren’t concerned if the attire is the real vintage deal or not, check out these stores:
Theatrical Costumes, Etc.
673 30th Street, Boulder
Recognized as the best costume in Boulder, Theatrical Costumes, Etc. carries everything you need to get the 1940’s look. From dresses to shoes, wigs, makeup, and more, this boutique is a one-stop-shop for your entire themed look.
Disguises
9797 West Colfax Avenue, Lakewood
As Denver’s largest retailer and renter of costumes and accessories, Disguises is known for its expansive selection of costumes, props, accessories, makeup, shoes, and more. From glam pin-up girl styles to Rosie the Riveter war-time looks, this is a great time to find your look.
