What is the difference between vintage and retro?

Introduction

The terms Vintage and Retro are often used to describe clothing, furniture, or other items with a touch of nostalgia. They are frequently, and incorrectly, considered synonymous. In reality, there is a clear difference in their meaning.

What is Vintage?

Vintage refers to original pieces from past decades that genuinely originate from that era. Therefore, they are not new reproductions but true originals that embody the style and quality of their epoch.

Since this fashion dates back to bygone times, vintage clothing is usually second-hand. This means it has already been worn or at least owned.

Thus, a genuine dress from the 1960s is vintage.

What is Retro?

Retro describes fashion or similar items that are newly produced but visually inspired by earlier decades. Cuts, patterns, and colors adopt the style of past eras but are of contemporary manufacture.

A dress that has been newly sewn but looks like it's from the 50s or 60s is therefore retro.

Conclusion

Vintage is original and from the past. Retro is new but inspired by the style of earlier times.

At Bright House Vintage, you will primarily find high-quality, authentically reproduced retro fashion with the charm of past decades from the 40s, 50s, and 60s.