Running your own business comes with amazing perks, but missing out on the traditional office Christmas party? That’s a definite downside! So, my fellow self-employed friends and I decided to take matters into our own hands and throw our own festive bash, complete with cocktails, Cava, and delicious Mexican food. Naturally, the first thing on my mind was: what to wear? I needed a killer Rock And Roll Outfit that was both stylish and comfortable for a night of celebrating.
My everyday style leans towards the understated – or as I prefer to think of it, consistently chic. You’ll usually find me in a midi or maxi skirt, paired with sturdy black boots and a well-fitting tee. While I often embrace head-to-toe black, I love to inject personality with bold accessories. Think rainbow headbands, stacks of hot pink bangles, and layers upon layers of necklaces. But for this party, I wanted something a little more special, a true rock and roll outfit that would stand out from my usual attire.
Like many women of a certain age and generous bust size navigating the British high street, I often find myself in a fashion no-man’s-land. Too mature for the teeny-bopper styles, yet not quite ready for overly conservative options, finding something that fits well, feels comfortable, isn’t too short, and avoids the dreaded “potato sack” effect can be a real challenge. The quest for the perfect rock and roll outfit felt especially daunting.
That’s when I remembered Revival Retro Boutique.
Kat Forsyth wearing a black retro dress at Revival Retro Boutique
Kat Forsyth in a vibrant red dress at Revival Retro Boutique
Close up of Kat Forsyth in a black dress highlighting retro style details
Kat Forsyth smiling in a patterned retro dress at Revival Retro Boutique
Kat Forsyth trying on a white retro dress with lace details
I’ve always appreciated the elegance of retro fashion, though vintage shopping itself can feel overwhelming. The hunt, the sizing inconsistencies – it’s not always conducive to a quick and easy shopping trip. However, when retro-inspired clothing fits impeccably, it surpasses everything else. The cuts are inherently more flattering, designed to accentuate the waist and curves without being overly revealing or unflattering. My friend Charlotte, with her consistently impeccable 1940s style, is a constant source of inspiration. Ready to explore something different for my rock and roll outfit, I ventured to Revival Retro Boutique near Tottenham Court Road on a chilly Tuesday morning.
Revival Retro Boutique, complete with its online store, specializes in garments inspired by the glamourous eras of the 1920s, 30s, 40s, and 50s. Think Old Hollywood icons like Bette Davis, Lauren Bacall, and Grace Kelly – timeless style personified. Founded by Rowena Howie, who, like myself, felt underwhelmed by mainstream high street options, the boutique aims to provide women of all shapes and sizes with clothing that flatters their figures and seamlessly integrates into modern life. This sounded exactly like the place to find my perfect rock and roll outfit.
Kat Forsyth modeling a stylish retro coat at Revival Retro Boutique
Kat Forsyth wearing a chic retro dress with a belt at Revival Retro Boutique
Kat Forsyth trying on a sequined retro dress perfect for a party
Kat Forsyth in a sophisticated retro dress with sleeves at Revival Retro Boutique
Stepping into Revival Retro is like entering a haven of beautiful clothes. The bright and airy boutique is filled with stunning pieces, from elegant dresses and coats to exquisite shoes, bags, and jewelry. I was instantly captivated. The staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive, offering assistance without being intrusive. Almost immediately after arriving, the manager Sarah guided me to a changing room and inquired about the occasion I was dressing for and my usual style preferences. She proposed taking charge and selecting items for me to try based on my input, promising a few surprises along the way. This personalized approach was exactly what I needed to discover a unique rock and roll outfit.
One of the greatest benefits of having someone else curate your wardrobe choices is that you step outside your comfort zone. While not every garment Sarah brought was a perfect match (though impressively, everything fit true to size – a UK size 12 actually was a size 12!), I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked the figure-hugging wiggle dresses. These were styles I would typically avoid, convinced they weren’t for me. Sarah even encouraged me to try a vibrant crimson dress, a color I usually steer clear of. To my surprise, it looked fantastic! Red, it turned out, wasn’t as intimidating as I had always imagined. This experience highlighted how stepping outside my usual style box could lead to discovering the ideal rock and roll outfit.
Kat Forsyth in a red dress with retro styling at Revival Retro Boutique
Kat Forsyth showcasing the back detail of a retro dress
Kat Forsyth in a black retro dress with detailed sleeves
Kat Forsyth modeling a retro dress with a sweetheart neckline
I even embraced my inner flapper, exploring the 1920s collection! Sarah, bless her patience, even attempted to teach me the Cha Cha. Let’s just say my dance skills are still a work in progress! However, the fun and supportive atmosphere made the whole experience of finding a rock and roll outfit even more enjoyable.
Kat Forsyth in a 1920s style flapper dress at Revival Retro Boutique
Kat Forsyth in another 1920s inspired dress, showcasing the vintage style
After trying on countless gorgeous dresses, I finally settled on a black 1940s-inspired dress (yes, black again, but this time with a retro twist!). The moment I put it on, I felt instantly comfortable and, most importantly, like myself, but elevated. It enhanced my figure, nipping in at the waist and flattering my bust without being too revealing. Crucially, it felt like a piece I could wear beyond just one special occasion, a vital consideration for anyone with limited closet space. Paired with a metallic clutch and dazzling red-black ombre pumps, reminiscent of modern-day Dorothy shoes, my rock and roll outfit was complete. There was no turning back.
Kat Forsyth in a black 1940s dress paired with a metallic clutch
Close up of the metallic clutch and retro dress details
Kat Forsyth showcasing the red and black ombre retro shoes
Shoe dreams really do come true, especially when they are part of your perfect rock and roll outfit!
Kat Forsyth posing in her full retro outfit with the ombre shoes
Another view of Kat Forsyth's retro rock and roll outfit and shoes
I also fell head over heels for this faux fur collared jacket. Not only did it perfectly complement my rock and roll outfit, but it was incredibly warm and luxurious.
Kat Forsyth wearing a faux fur collared jacket over her retro dress
My visit to The Revival Retro Boutique was an absolute delight. It’s the ideal destination when you need an outfit for a special event. While not exclusively a wedding shop, their constantly updated inventory makes it a fantastic option for bridesmaid dresses or even mother-of-the-bride attire. They cater to a wide range of shapes, sizes, and budgets, with items ranging from chic pencil skirts to intricately embellished gowns. Most dresses are available in sizes 8 to 18. If you’re searching for a rock and roll outfit or any retro-inspired look, Revival Retro is a must-visit.
Kat Forsyth outside Revival Retro Boutique in her retro outfit
The Revival Retro Boutique is located at 30 Windmill Street, London, W1T 2JL. Appointments are not required, but you can contact them at +44 207 636 8922 or via email at boutique@revival-‐retro.com. Discover your own perfect rock and roll outfit and embrace the timeless elegance of retro fashion!
