Vintage Inspired Dresses

Love the glamour of the 1940s and 50s? Our vintage inspired dresses take those classic shapes and add modern stretch. Think nipped-in waists, wiggle skirts, swing hems, folded collars and off-shoulder necklines. Prints include polka dots, checks and florals. Every style is designed and made in England, so you get a retro look with a fit made for today.

Vintage shape, modern comfort

True vintage dresses can feel stiff and hard to fit. Ours use stretch fabrics such as Bi-Stretch, Ripple Crepe and Moss Crepe. You get the hourglass line without the discomfort.

That shape comes from our roots. Diva Catwalk started in 1985 in fashion and lingerie corsetry. We still cut seams to support and sculpt, just as the old dressmakers did.

Shapes with a retro feel

The wiggle is the most iconic vintage silhouette. It hugs the hips and narrows at the knee. Find more in our wiggle dresses.

Swing skirts bring a playful 1950s feel. Try the Thistledown Swing Dress, the January Sleeved Swing Dress or the Gatsby Sleeved Oversized Collar Swing Dress.

A fishtail hem adds old Hollywood drama. The Senne Three-quarter Sleeve Fishtail Dress is a lovely example. See more in our fishtail dresses.

Collars and necklines matter too. The Marcel Folded Collar Pencil Dress and the Kubrick Asymmetric Neckline Pencil Dress have neat retro details. The Cloud and Breton Off Shoulder Pencil Dresses nod to the bardot look.

Prints and textures add character too.

  • Checks, like the Pandora Check Dress, feel smart and classic.
  • Florals, like the Symphony Floral Dress, are soft and feminine.
  • Lace, like the Kent Boned Lace Dress and the Zantana Lace Dress, adds romance.

How to style a vintage look

Keep it simple and let the dress lead. Add a red lip, a neat bun or soft waves. Pearl earrings and a structured handbag finish the look. Seamed tights and court shoes give an authentic touch in cooler months.

Retro dresses for real occasions

Vintage style is not just for themed parties. A swing dress is lovely at a summer wedding. A wiggle dress looks sharp at a dinner. A check or polka dot print brightens a working week.

Many styles have 3/4 or cap sleeves, true to the era. They give coverage while keeping the look light.

Vintage inspired dress FAQs

Are these dresses true vintage?

No. They are new dresses inspired by vintage shapes. Each one is designed and made in England.

Do vintage styles run small?

Our fitted styles are cut close to the body. Check our size guide and measure your waist and hips carefully.

Can I wear a vintage inspired dress to work?

Yes. A plain pencil dress with a retro collar looks smart in the office.

What length are these dresses?

Most sit on or just below the knee, which is true to the era.

EU Right of Withdrawal

Under EU consumer law, customers may withdraw from their purchase within 14 days of delivery.

When submitting a return request, you may select Other as the return reason.

You do not need to provide a reason when exercising your EU withdrawal rights.

Returns are not available after 14 days from delivery.