‘The Archies' Fashion: Mumbai-based stylists share tips to recreate vintage looks

Set against the backdrop of 1960s India, Zoya Akhtar's movie - "The Archies" unfolds in the fictional town of Riverdale. The film delves viewers into a yesteryear world with the vintage '60s fashion tailored for the then contemporary India.

The 1960s was a highlight period of lively and vibrant colours in the realm of Indian fashion as outlined by experts. The film features an array of striking hues that were true to the spirit of the time - from bright reds and sunny yellows to playful pinks and lush greens. These shades not only liven up the screen but also represent the exuberance of the bygone era.

Celebrity stylist Sheefa Gilani describes it as "An adaptation of the ‘60s style suited for modern India." Gilani, a stylist hailing from Mumbai, recently curated Alaya F's look, adorning her in an off-white pearl dress for the Elle Beauty Awards. Additionally, she has styled the likes of Manushi Chillar, Kritika Kamra and Mrunal Thakur.

Decoding the retro look from "The Archies"
"The Archies" (a musical) is perhaps one of the most awaited Netflix films of the year. Not only for its debut cast but also for its eccentric old-school fashion. "The ‘60s were a time of innovation. Each character in "The Archies" represents a sixties fashion trend", opines Gilani.

From Suhana Khan sporting a mini skirt with cosy slacks and kitten heels, to the boys donning a plaid button down with slim-fit blue jeans - the retro look stands out. While colours continued to remain at the front and centre of film's fashion, items such as chunky jewellery and oversized sunglasses add an extra element of boldness to the overall look.

The fashion in "The Archies" also borrows from the current era's iconic trends, seamlessly blending elements that were quintessentially Indian with a strong influence from Western pop culture, shares Kareen Parwani, who often styles Soha Ali Khan, Hema Malini and Sania Mirza. Polka dots and body-fitted dresses take centre stage in "The Archies," mirroring the heavy Western influence that permeated Indian fashion.

These elements capture the essence of a time when Western pop culture began to make its mark on the Indian fashion scene. The checkered prints, polka dots and floral patterns add a playful and retro charm. Whereas the slim-fit crop tops and flared pants accentuate the glamour and sophistication of the era.

"I think much like the comics, each of the character's wardrobes reflects their personality and highlights their state of mind. It also tells a story about the backgrounds and interests, for example, Veronica is more exposed to the fashion world and her wardrobes reflect the most current, en vogue elements, on the other hand, Betty's wardrobe reflects a more prim and proper imagery, with modesty tailored dresses and skirts that are just above the knee length or maybe longer," shares Parwani.

Recreating Suhana Khan's vintage look

In a world where fashion is a statement and style is an expression, Suhana Khan's vintage formal girl look has taken the scene by storm. As her upcoming film's poster graced Mumbai's billboards, it was impossible not to notice the enchanting blend of vintage charm and contemporary flair.

Suhana's ensemble in the poster is a monochrome masterpiece, reminiscent of Blair Waldorf's wildest dreams, reveals Gilani. It's a look that oozes sophistication and poise, bringing forth the essence of timeless fashion. Now, the question arises - how can you incorporate this spellbinding style into your everyday wardrobe for formal occasions? Gilani shares 3 tips:

The well-fitted shirt: A silent elegance
Suhana's well-fitted, non-creased shirt is the epitome of understated elegance. It speaks volumes without saying a word. To replicate this effortless grace, choose well-tailored, non-crease shirts that hug your silhouette just right. Opt for a classic white or a subdued monochrome palette for a timeless look that can transition seamlessly from the boardroom to an evening soiree.

The allure of pearl earrings
Pearl earrings, as seen on Suhana, are the delicate, feminine touch that can elevate any strong and formal ensemble. There's something inherently soft and alluring about pearls. Incorporate them into your jewellery collection for those moments when you wish to add a touch of timeless sophistication to your look. They're versatile enough to complement a wide range of outfits, from power suits to elegant dresses.

The magic of the hairband
A subtle yet pivotal element of Suhana's look is the hair band. It not only keeps your hair neatly pulled back but also introduces an extra layer of finesse to your appearance. Hair bands are back in vogue and can add an air of retro charm to your overall style. Opt for neutral or monochrome hair bands to enhance the vintage aesthetic.

In a world that often equates formal attire with predictable outfits, Suhana Khan's vintage formal girl style challenges the stereotypes. It reminds us that there's an art to combining classic with contemporary and that the right elements can transform any outfit into a work of sartorial art.

Pairing petticoats and trousers for a vintage vibe
To help you embrace the charm of this iconic look, Gilani shares five invaluable styling tips to master the art of combining a petticoat and trousers for women.

Classic tee with trousers
Start with a classic foundation by pairing high-waisted trousers with a timeless white or black tee, mirroring Archie's signature style. The secret to pulling off this look lies in the neat tuck. Gently tuck the tee into the trousers, creating a clean and timeless style. This simple yet effective combination effortlessly combines comfort and elegance.

Layer with a denim jacket
To add a dash of effortless and casual charm, reminiscent of Archie's laid-back style, layer a denim jacket over your tee and trousers. The denim jacket brings a hint of ruggedness to the outfit, striking a harmonious balance between structured and relaxed. This layering technique offers versatility, allowing you to adapt the look for various occasions.

Accessorise with a necktie
Incorporate a necktie or bowtie to infuse a touch of Archie's preppy charm into your ensemble. Tie it loosely around your neck for a playful twist, capturing the essence of youthful sophistication. The necktie elevates the outfit, making it suitable for semi-formal events and creative workspaces.

Choose the right petticoat
Selecting the right petticoat is crucial to achieve the desired effect. Opt for a petticoat in a complementary colour or pattern that complements the trousers and tee. Consider a petticoat with some volume to introduce an interesting contrast to the tailored trousers. This contrast not only adds depth to the outfit but also pays homage to the vintage aesthetics.

Footwear matters
The final piece of the puzzle is footwear. Your choice of shoes can significantly impact the overall look. For a casual and everyday appearance, opt for classic white sneakers or loafers. These shoes maintain a relaxed vibe and can be worn for a variety of occasions. On the other hand, heeled boots or oxfords can elevate the outfit, rendering it suitable for more polished and sophisticated settings.

The key to successfully pulling off the petticoat and trousers look is to strike a delicate balance between masculine and feminine elements. This fusion creates a harmonious and fashionable ensemble that allows you to express your personal style while paying tribute to the iconic vintage formal girl look.

Recreating Dot's floral look

In the world of cinema, newcomers often take the limelight by surprise. Dot, who plays the role of Veronica in the film, has managed to captivate attention for her intriguing background. Much like the star kids, Dot's name leaves us wondering whether she has roots in the film industry or is entirely new to the glamour world.

Regardless of her lineage, her style, inspired by her character Veronica, offers valuable fashion lessons. Parwani shares three distinct ways to recreate Dot's elegant and versatile style.

Sleek-fitted dresses
Veronica's style revolves around sleek fitted dresses tailored to perfection, and this is a trend you can effortlessly make your own. There's an undeniable allure in a dress that hugs your figure like a second skin. To channel Veronica's chic and sophisticated look, opt for a monotone fitted dress with a modest neckline.

This choice emphasises elegance and timelessness. To elevate the ensemble, accessorise with classic pearl earrings and a pearl chain. These understated touches add a dash of sophistication, transforming your outfit into a classy and refined ensemble.

Preppy perfection
To capture Veronica's preppy charm, you can curate a fun and stylish outfit. Begin with a formal skirt paired with a lively blouse. Don't shy away from adding stockings to the mix and opt for Mary Janes to complete the look. The whimsical essence of this ensemble is further enhanced by securing your hair in a high ponytail.

Consider adding a headband as a finishing touch to bring the outfit together. Veronica's preppy style offers a blend of playfulness and refinement, making it an ideal choice for various occasions.

Layered sophistication
Layering is a versatile technique to elevate your style, and Veronica's character highlights the art of layering with finesse. For a chic and sophisticated appearance, wear a crisp cotton shirt underneath a loose-fitting formal dress. Leave the top button open for a relaxed yet polished effect. To accentuate your waist, cinch it in with a well-chosen belt. This approach marries the concepts of comfort and elegance, offering a look that is both structured and effortless.

Styling tips for men to recreate vintage wardrobe theme

As we delve deeper into the world of the film's fashion, there's no shortage of inspiration for the stylish gentlemen among us. Parwani offers five invaluable tips to recreate the versatile wardrobe theme for men:

Subtle layering
For a minimal appearance, consider the art of effortless layering. Kareen Parwani emphasises the appeal of a simple shirt paired with a sweater tied around the neck towards the front. This look exudes casual sophistication and offers both comfort and style. The key is in the subtle details - choose colours that harmonise and textures that blend seamlessly.

Classic jeans and tee combo
The combination of well-fitted blue jeans and a classic tee shirt is timeless, and its versatility cannot be underestimated. To elevate this classic pairing, complement it with a pair of moccasins and a matching belt. These understated touches render the outfit polished and sophisticated, making it suitable for a wide array of settings.

Layering with a sweater vest
Embrace the colder months with style by incorporating a sleeveless sweater vest. Layer it over a shirt to add an extra dimension and warmth to your ensemble. This layering technique not only offers practicality but also introduces depth to your look. It's a perfect choice for winter, providing both comfort and fashion-forward appeal.

Textured polo with neutral trousers
To take a simple outfit and make it appear more put together, consider pairing neutral trousers with a textured polo. This combination adds a touch of sophistication and depth to your look. The textured polo introduces an element of visual interest, elevating your overall appearance. This ensemble is a versatile choice, suitable for a variety of occasions.

Experiment with unconventional formalwear
When the occasion calls for formal attire, don't shy away from making a statement. Drawing inspiration from the '60s, opt for a fitted suit in a less conventional colour, such as purple or wine. Pair it with a contrasting bow tie to create a memorable and dashing look. For a touch of novelty, consider experimenting with uncommon textures like checks or linen suits. These choices allow you to introduce a fresh and distinct element to your formal ensemble.