Pinup girl bikinis!

I literally want to own everything on pinupgirlclothing.com. Here's a sample of some of their beautiful vintage inspired bikinis! The top design is my favourite and is also available in black, green, red, yellow and gold.

Madonna in the eighties

I never realised quite how stunning Madonna was in her youth.

Loving the excessive jewellery, leather biker gloves and rosary beads in these pictures. I think these images really highlight just how on trend black/white clothing was in the eighties. One thing needs to be said here, however - style icon or not, that "boy toy" belt is inexcusable! Haha.

Wartime Dancing

Such an energetic form of dancing! How much fun would it be to learn to do this?!

Thanks to Ryals4 for the upload. I can't stop watching!

New Romanticism 1979 - 1982

New romanticism is epitomised by flamboyant frills, luscious fabrics and historical references to dandified regency designs. It is both glamorous and theatrical, which is probably why I love it. I've always been attracted to loud clothing!

Adam and the Ants totally sum up new romanticism. I don't know if they are at all famous in other countries, but in Britain they're legendary. This song is sooo catchy!

In an attempt to try out a new romantic look for myself, I purchased these two beautiful dresses:

The sweetheart necklines, puffy skirts and soft velvet material are typical of the 80's. The second dress even has a bustle! I've been debating putting these in my vintage shop for ages, and I think the time has finally come. It's so difficult to let them go! If only I needed clothes more than I need food, then maybe I could afford to keep them XD

Rainbow

Anyone remember rainbow? It was a kids TV show that ran from the 1970s to the 1990s on British TV. I'm sure most of you have already seen this video already, but for those who haven't, check it out! It's HILARIOUS. Trust me ;)

I asked my dad what this was all about and he said it was originally done as a joke between the camera crew and the actors, and it wasn't supposed to get out. Well obviously it leaked. It was too funny not to!

Big love for big hair

Why does my hair never look this good? I've been planning to dye my hair white-blonde for a while now, and after seeing the picture at the top of this post I'm grabbing the peroxide and going for it!

Loving the combination of thick eye liner and big hair in all of these pictures. If you're looking for a beautiful bouffant then check out this video on ehow. I found it so useful :)

How to Do a Bouffant | eHow.com

Welcome to Imperial Swing!

Hello!

I'm Emily, I'm 21, I'm an art student from the UK, and this is my blog! This website will soon be a bonanza of eclectic vintage discoveries, psychedelic make-up techniques and ideas everyone can use to create charming, old-time looks - so watch this space ;)


To get the ball rolling, here are some retro photographs of colourful 60s make up. I was listening to Lucy In The Sky by The Beatles and the phrase "kaleidoscope eyes" stood out to me. This collection was inspired by this lyric, and includes some exceptionally colourful eye makeup that could easily be replicated for parties, festivals or nights out :)