Goodwood Revival Fashion & Style Guide

What to wear for Goodwood Revival 2023

At this time of the year, we are asked all the time for clothing and vintage styling advice from those attending the famous Goodwood Revival racing event. So we have created this handy 'Goodwood Revival Fashion Guide' for vintage dressing tips and further information to help you on your way to one of the most amazing vintage events of the year! 

Q: 'What should i wear at Goodwood Revival?'...

This famous event attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world and whilst it is known for vintage and classic motorsports - it's also known for it's vintage fashion and glamour particularly 1940s through to 1960s. There are vintage fashion parades thoughout the weekend AND a best dressed contest where scouts from the event will select from attendees who they believe encapsulate the vintage fashion glamour.

It really is an excuse to dress-up TO THE NINES in vintage inspired fashions and style of the period covered; 1940s, 1950s & 1960s (although there are many who choose to 1920s and 30s too!). 

Things to note for Goodwood Revival First Timers:-

  • You will definately regret it if you don’t dress up - it's part of the experience!
  • Take something warm like a coat, throw or cardigan just in case you decide to stay late – it can get very cold once the sun goes down.
  • You may have to walk a fair way from your parking – take suitable walking shoes and change when you arrive at the event. This can also save precious vintage shoes from wear!
  • You can get your hair done but it's always worth booking in advance

Getting dressed up really is a thrilling part of attending this event - see our suggestions below with links to our special collections created for Goodwood Revival.

1940s Outfit Suggestions

1940s fashion is much more versatile than you may initially think. The 1940s to many will bring to mind the glamour of the 40s Pin Up - but there is so much more to try out from this period and it's a very flattering look. We have the practical styles of the wartime Land Army Girls - high waist trousers and masculine blouses. Then there are the ultra feminine 1940s tea dance dresses in floral prints, wedge shoes and brogues. Dont forget the high glamour of the film noir styles from the 1940s too. 

Makeup: subtle winged eyeliner, red lip, false lashes

Hair: 1940s hair is definitely the iconic element of this era - but can easily look silly if not done right. Avoid victory rolls and try the 40s poodle or pageboy with hair flowers.. check out instruction videos on youtube. If your hair is shoot - opt for a turban style or head scarf.

Accessories: seamed stockings/tights (order here), hat or snood, diamanté jewellery

Shoes: brogues or sandals with a platform

1940s Goodwood Key Look 1: Utility Suit Style

The is a great style for those who seek a practical yet super elegant option - or for when the weather isn't quite as clement. There were some masculine elements to the suits of this perios and trousers were becoming more acceptable. Trousers from this period are different to modern styles - choose reproduction high waisted, wide leg trousers which are really flattering and should be paired with a waisted jumper, blouse and jacket. 

See our utility style collection below.

goodwood revival 1940s outfit ideas

1940s Goodwood Key Look 2: Film Noir Elegance 

The American style in the 1940s took a direction of its own as supplies weren't affected in the same way as Europe. At Goodwood Revival, many ladies adopt the ultimate and iconic sophisticated clothing of the 1940s hollywood glamour - whether that be a suit with a faux fur or an elegant draped dress with shoulder pads to emphasise the silhouette. Remember the must have accessory for this outfit - headwear! This may be in form of a tilt hat, a beret or even a turban.  

goodwood revival 1940s outfit ideas

The above outfit is the Stanwyck 40s Dress paired with matching Jacket and iconic Halo Beret - and is available in racing green or rust.

The House of Foxy is reknown for it's authentic collection of 1940s designs. Click here to peruse our 1940s collection of ladiewear perfect for Goodwood Revival.


1950s Outfit Suggestions

If you prefer high glam - then the 1950s is for you! Goodwood Revival really is the perfect opportunity to dress up to the nines! For those of you who like a glamourous look and want to feel like you're really dressing differently then a 1950s inspired style choice is the one for you!

There's no doubt that the 1950s look is one of the most flattering for all shapes - whether you go for a sultry wiggle pencil style or a full and frothy petticoat - it's all so glam.

Makeup: Strong winged eyeliner, bold lip in red or pink, false eyelashes

Hair: 1950s classic hairstyles were just as varied as the 40s but perhaps more daring. Short and shaggy italian cut styles, curled and waved short hair, pageboy or worn in a ponytails with bangs. Again check out instruction videos on youtube.

Accessories: seamed stockings/tights (order here), plenty of jerwellery, matching bags and gloves

Shoes: court shoes eith a heal

Take a look at our 50s suggestions....

1950s Goodwood Revival Key Look 1: Dior's New Look

In 1947, Dior launched the classic 'New Look' - which was all about the ultra feminine hourglass shape. The waist was emphasised by a full skirt and tailored jacket often with strong shoulders. This look became the iconic shape we now think of when we visualise the 1950s.

goodwood revival 1940s outfit ideas

The above outfit is the Lilian 50s Jacket paired with Premium 50s Circle Skirt and a hand,ade limited edition Tilt hat - and is available in racing green or berry.

1950s Goodwood Revival Key Look 2: Feminine Cottons

The 1950s was post war optimistic - and this was strongly reflected in fashion through colours and prints. Iconic brands including British brand Horrockses spear headed the floral cotton dresses which often had full and frothy skirts. Although this is a more casual look - it's super feminine and perfect if you fancy something more comfortable.

goodwood revival 1940s outfit ideas

 The above outfit features a classic set of cottons - the 1950s Norma Jean blouse is paired with the pictoral print Full Skirt. Pair with comfy knits like our Crop Cardigan in Brick.

Check out our selection of wonderful Goodwood Revival ready 1950s outfits designed with the event in mind. Click here to peruse our 1950s collection of ladiewear perfect for Goodwood Revival.

 

Helpful links:-

Goodwood Revival Information page 

Goodwood Revival wiki

 

 

 


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