History Repeating or: The Right Way to do Retro

We all know that the over the top Hollywood glamor-inspired looks are passé, but I'm still a fan of the clean cuts and elegant shapes that continue to re-appear in fashion. Here are some of my favorite retro inspired looks from the Fall 2008 ready to wear and the 2009 Resort collections.

Grace Kelly in Rear Window works a fabulous, fitted green suit like the Valentino one seen here.


This detailed off the shoulder look works for both the gown worn by Grace Kelly and this new Elie Saab dress.

This white Valentino coat shares the same cut and collar as the Givenchy one worn here by Audrey Hepburn in Charade.


Audrey sports a fitted white dress with a black belt similar to this Chanel ensemble.



Hepburn looks gorgeous in this loose, white casual dress, as does the model for this Martin Grant dress.


The embellished detail on Veronica Lake's gown is similar to that of this Elie Saab dress.



This Jasmine di Milo evening gown echoes the flattering neckline of the one worn by Gene Tierney.


I love this Lanvin update of Rita Hayworth's black silk dress and "one glove off" look in Gilda.



Katherine Hepburn and this Antonio Berardi piece share billowing, loose fabrics.


Lauren Bacall's fabulous outfit and this Jasmine di Milo dress share boxy, square shoulders.

I love all these retro looks, and I think they work much in moderation!