Shop Vintage 1950s-Inspired Dresses With A Modern Pin-Up Vibe At Homegrown Fashion Label Bluebelle

By Samantha Ann Francis on 30 May 2022

Senior Editor

If Audrey Hepburn’s outfits in movies like Roman Holiday and Breakfast at Tiffany’s left you all googly eyed, here’s a homegrown fashion label to check out.

Photo from Bluebelle

Bluebelle was started by Ammy in 2013 as she had trouble finding vintage clothing in the Lion City. What first started out as a struggle with body insecurity—somebody told her that midi full skirts hid her thunder thighs well, has now morphed into her passion and a fashion company that manufactures its own vintage-inspired pieces.

While the shop was first stocked with established vintage brands from Britain, it now produces its own Made By Bluebelle line.

Photo from Bluebelle

Bestsellers include the Bardot off-shoulder swing dress inspired by French actress and sex symbol Brigitte Bardot, as well as the playful Florence swing dress. The former is made with stretch bengaline fabric, a silk/cotton blend that’s imported from the UK and comes with an elegant off-the-shoulder neckline perfect for showing off your décolletage, while the latter features a square neckline and two hidden pockets.

Photo from Bluebelle

They’ve also got a popular bridal collection for brides-to-be who prefer midi-length dresses with a retro vibe. The Bridgitte puff sleeve dress in cream, which can be worn on or off shoulder, comes with a sweetheart neckline and puffy sleeves that’s flattering on most body types. A personal favourite of mine, the Lou swing dress has slight cap sleeves and a sweetheart neckline that gives off a timeless feel.

Photo from Bluebelle

A quick glance on their site shows a wide variety of dress silhouettes, from modern iterations of a cheongsam to the maternity-friendly Twiggy dress. The Hana swing dress, with its classic vintage 1950s silhouette, comes with adjustable spaghetti straps and a fully-lined and boned bodice to create the illusion of a smaller waist.

Photo from Bluebelle

The dresses come in either solid colours or limited-run prints using fabric sourced from all over the world. You’ll also find a select number of dresses crafted from fabric by the renowned Liberty of London, which are said to be silky-smooth and exceptional in quality.

Photo from Bluebelle

Those observant will also find that most of the dresses on the site are photographed with tulle slips beneath, creating more volume for that fit and flare look by means of organza layers and lining. These are also available for purchase.

Meanwhile, new mothers will appreciate the small collection of nursing-friendly pieces, which come with front zippers and a similar vintage silhouette.