Retro Get Ready With Me: Creating the Perfect Outfit for a Special Event

Are you ready to step out for a special event with that classic retro flair? If you love the nostalgia of past decades and want to express it in your own way, following a “retro get ready with me” routine is a fun way to choose outfits, accessories, and makeup with extra personality — and real-life practicality.

Inspired by TikTok creator nrryayaa muslim’s retro event prep, let’s walk through how you can build a stylish and comfortable retro event outfit — whether you’re attending as a guest, hosting, or just want to feel a bit more fabulous in your daily life. As someone who has put together vintage-inspired looks for work, parties, and family gatherings, I know that hitting the right balance of color, comfort, and statement detail can be so rewarding.

Starting Your Retro Look: Plan Ahead and Pick Your Theme

The first thing nrryayaa does in her video is set the vibe and plan her outfit around the event she’s attending. That’s always my first step as well! Whether the event is a themed party, a wedding, or a fun dinner out, think about:

• The decade you want to channel (70s, 80s, 90s, or a blend)
• The level of formality
• Comfort and practicality for your schedule

For Muslim retro fashion, there’s the added element of making sure outfits are both modest and expressive. I love how modern brands now offer chic long-sleeve blouses in classic retro prints, plus maxi skirts with just the right polka dots or color-blocking.

The Outfit: Mixing Black, White, and Retro Accessories

In her TikTok, Yaya shares her outfit-building process step by step, fussing over accessories and small touches:

• Dress: White as the base, comfortable fit
• Outerwear or key layering piece: Black, adding a sharp, retro contrast
• Accessories: Keychains, sprays, rubbers (hairbands!), and, of course, a cute cap

As someone who’s pieced together dozens of event looks, I’ve learned not to stress if something feels a bit off at first. Sometimes the “does this go?” question is what actually makes the outfit memorable (and several of my favorite photos are in looks I almost said no to).

Tips For Outfits Like Yaya’s:

• Color: Black and white is a timeless retro pairing—think bold contrasts from the 60s or the classic ‘90s “cool girl” look.
• Fabric/Material: If you’re shopping or asking a friend to help (as Yaya’s friend Awin did), ask for breathable cotton or crepe—they look elegant and hold their shape.
• Fit & Style: Yaya opts for layers, a cap, and flexible accessories to add a bit of playfulness and utility. Go for easy moves with adjustable waists, and long sleeves or capes for dimension.
• Stretchiness: Especially important if you’ll be moving a lot—or eating!—at your event.
• Return/Exchange: If you’re not sure if the look will come together, always check your shop’s return or exchange policy. It saves you (and whoever helps you shop) a lot of stress!

Accessorizing: The Little Things Make The Look

Yaya spends some extra time sorting “the key” — and joking about simple things like carrying a spray (hairspray, body mist, or fabric freshener), extra hair ties, and a favorite pair of “specs” (that’s glasses, for those new to retro TikTok lingo!). In my own experience, retro style always pops with:

• Bold glasses or sunglasses with a vintage frame shape
• Fun, chunky jewelry or classic pearl accents
• A standout bag: Try a mini structured handbag or a colorful clutch (I’ve found great affordable picks at local markets and thrift shops)
• Headwear: A beret or cap instantly adds retro energy, especially for hijabi looks or for days you just want to spice things up

Pro Tip: Always pack a small emergency kit with pins, a mini deodorant, and a backup hair tie. You’ll thank yourself later!

The Finishing Touch: Confidence

In the TikTok, Yaya asks the audience if the outfit is “okay,” wondering if the black and white will work, or if her specs are “too much.” This is SO relatable. Whether you’re nervous about a bold accessory or a statement color, remember: what feels “extra” to you always looks more fun and intentional to other people.

• Ask for opinions, but trust your gut. I’ve had countless last-minute changes based on a mirror check—and sometimes, you just have to try it and own it!
• Wear your outfit for a few minutes before heading out. This helps you catch any tags, tight spots, or things you need to adjust (trust me, there’s nothing more retro than being late because you couldn’t decide which bag to use).

Share, Rate, and Celebrate Your Retro Style

Just like Yaya says at the end—rate your outfit! Take a photo, get feedback from friends, and most importantly, document your look for next time. Every retro event outfit is a chance to try a new twist, whether it’s a new brand, color palette, or accessory hack.

For even more ideas on building retro and event-ready looks, check out Nostalgia & Retro Style and Seasonal & Event Outfits.

Conclusion: Your Retro Get Ready With Me Routine

Embracing retro style—especially for an event—means enjoying the process, mixing old-school charm with what works for your life today. Take a tip from Yaya: plan ahead, accessorize boldly, experiment with color, and most of all, wear your outfit with confidence. Have fun sharing your journey—and maybe inspire someone else to try their own “retro get ready with me” adventure!

For more on retro event outfits, outfit rating fun, and all things nostalgic, don’t miss What Will Wear’s design inspiration and keep rocking those vintage vibes!

@nrr.yayaa get ready with me #retrostyle ♬ Vivaldi – 2 Violins op 8 Allegro 1 – AllMusicGallery

Tiktok transcript by nrryayaa muslim
get ready with me #retrostyle

00:00:00 --> 00:00:01
There is an event today.

00:00:01 --> 00:00:03
so let’s get ready with Yaya.

00:00:04 --> 00:00:04
Oh,

00:00:04 --> 00:00:05
we have an outfit today.

00:00:06 --> 00:00:07
Retro has vibes.

00:00:07 --> 00:00:09
so let’s go first,

00:00:09 --> 00:00:10
Yaya wants to pack it.

00:00:10 --> 00:00:13
Pack the Titanic key and then

00:00:14 --> 00:00:15
Good, good, good.

00:00:15 --> 00:00:17
so of course we need rubber

00:00:17 --> 00:00:18
So I’ll have to bring the spray later.

00:00:18 --> 00:00:19
I’m afraid this rubber will break,

00:00:19 --> 00:00:20
what’s going on?

00:00:20 --> 00:00:23
Use the bottom key as usual.

00:00:23 --> 00:00:24
I can’t bear it.

00:00:25 --> 00:00:27
Because I want to wear a cap later.

00:00:32 --> 00:00:34
Just fold it here.

00:00:34 --> 00:00:35
and then

00:00:35 --> 00:00:37
The key has been plugged in.

00:00:40 --> 00:00:42
We’ll tie it together.

00:00:44 --> 00:00:45
Then we do this.

00:00:49 --> 00:00:50
So we tie it up.

00:00:51 --> 00:00:52
Tie 2.

00:00:57 --> 00:00:58
This is the key so I tied it earlier.

00:00:59 --> 00:01:00
You pull it here.

00:01:03 --> 00:01:03
♭

00:01:04 --> 00:01:08
拉条 女 拉

00:01:09 --> 00:01:11
It has become like.

00:01:11 --> 00:01:11
..

00:01:29 --> 00:01:31
Speck Speck Speck

00:01:36 --> 00:01:37
Spoiled.

00:01:38 --> 00:01:39
Spoiled.

00:01:40 --> 00:01:41
That’s not all,

00:01:41 --> 00:01:42
there is a surprise for you.

00:01:44 --> 00:01:46
But I don’t know if it’s suitable or not.

00:01:46 --> 00:01:49
Because the color is black.

00:01:49 --> 00:01:51
But because I told you to.

00:01:51 --> 00:01:52
Awin bought it.

00:01:52 --> 00:01:53
Because at that time I was busy with work.

00:01:53 --> 00:01:54
Yes,

00:01:54 --> 00:01:55
I don’t have time to go looking for clothes.

00:01:55 --> 00:01:58
So I asked Awin to help me buy it.

00:01:58 --> 00:01:59
Because this dress is white,

00:01:59 --> 00:02:00
I think it’s suitable.

00:02:00 --> 00:02:01
but it looks like

00:02:02 --> 00:02:03
I don’t know, it doesn’t feel right.

00:02:03 --> 00:02:04
The eyebrows feel black too.

00:02:05 --> 00:02:06
Do you think it’s okay?

00:02:11 --> 00:02:12
It is is okay.

00:02:24 --> 00:02:25
The key has arrived,

00:02:25 --> 00:02:27
so I don’t know which bag to use.

00:02:28 --> 00:02:30
I really like wearing this spec.

00:02:30 --> 00:02:31
But it’s like a blind funnel,

00:02:31 --> 00:02:32
right?

00:02:34 --> 00:02:35
Let’s try it first.

00:02:45 --> 00:02:48
so y ‘all this is my outfit today.

00:02:58 --> 00:03:00
So you have to rate how much clothes she has,

00:03:00 --> 00:03:00
okay?