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, but incorrectly, considered synonymous. In fact, there is a clear difference in their meaning.

What is vintage?

Vintage refers to original pieces from past decades that truly originate from that era. These are not new reproductions, but genuine originals that embody the style and quality of their time.

Since this fashion originates from bygone eras, vintage clothing is usually second-hand. It has therefore already been worn or at least owned.

A genuine dress from the 1960s is therefore vintage.

What is retro?

Retro describes fashion or similar items that are newly produced but visually based on previous decades. Cuts, patterns, and colors echo the style of bygone eras, but are manufactured using modern methods.

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 comes from the past. Retro is new, but is based on the style of earlier times.

At Bright House Vintage, you'll find primarily high-quality, authentically reproduced retro fashion with the charm of bygone decades from the 40s , 50s , and 60s . Our selection is complemented by deadstock vintage accessories – accessories that are vintage but unworn and still in their original packaging.