National Retro Day

Young woman wearing a scrunchie, high-waisted jeans, and a cassette player, surrounded by vintage posters and arcade games.. — National retro day illustration

Let's spin back time to the old school jams and remember VHS tapes - well, you're in luck! Inject some nostalgic charm into your day because the cyberspace is all set to celebrate the good old days. Welcome to your guide to National Retro Day, a day that’s all about neon lights, vinyl records, and all that jazz - and no, we're not pulling your leg warmers!

When is Retro Day?

It's national retro day on the 27th February.

Going Back to the Funky Beats

National Retro Day is a day which honours the vibe, the feel, the fun of yesteryears. With over 2209 mentions online, the most being on the 27th of February, 2021, it's no wonder that folks love twisting back time, even if just for a day.

A Day of Classics

From vintage fashion trends to retro gaming and those foot-tapping oldie soundtracks, National Retro Day encapsulates it all. People love to jazz up their regular routine by indulging in some old school activities, sharing vintage photos or simply by going to a retro-themed party. So get those bell-bottoms out, dust off your vinyl record player, and get ready to jive!

Retro? More Like Ret-YAY!

Why do we love retro so much? Maybe it's the simplicity of the past, or the thrill of living in a time we've only heard or read about. Or it could be the sheer joy of reliving our golden moments. Whatever the reason, National Retro Day gives us a chance to step back into the past and appreciate how far we've come. So chums, grab your round glasses, fluff up your Afros, and let's do the twist!

History behind the term 'Retro'

1940

The Birth of Retro

The term 'retro' was coined in the 1940s, as a shortened form of the word 'retrospective'. It initially referred to a style or fashion that imitated or drew inspiration from the past. Retro became associated with a nostalgic longing for the past, as people sought to recapture the charm and aesthetics of bygone eras.

1960

Mid-Century Modern Revival

In the 1960s, the retro trend gained momentum with the revival of the mid-century modern style, which originated in the 1950s. This design movement celebrated clean lines, organic forms, and minimalist aesthetics. The popularity of mid-century modern furniture and decor spread, fueling the demand for retro-inspired items.

1970

Retro Gaming: A Cultural Phenomenon

The 1970s witnessed the rise of video games, and with it, the birth of retro gaming. As technology advanced, newer and more sophisticated gaming consoles emerged. However, some individuals developed a fondness for the simpler, pixelated games of the past. Retro gaming became a cultural phenomenon, attracting enthusiasts who sought the nostalgic joy of playing classic arcade games and consoles.

1980

Retro Fashion Makes a Comeback

During the 1980s, the fashion industry embraced retro styles from the 1940s and 1950s. This marked a significant shift, as past eras were no longer simply imitated, but actively incorporated into contemporary fashion trends. The iconic looks of Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and James Dean became influential, resulting in a widespread resurgence of vintage clothing and accessories.

1990

Retro Pop Culture Renaissance

The 1990s experienced a renaissance of retro pop culture. Nostalgia for the 1970s and 1980s became prevalent, as movies, music, and fashion drew inspiration from these eras. Films like 'Pulp Fiction' and 'Boogie Nights' paid homage to the past, while bands like Nirvana and the Spice Girls incorporated retro elements into their music and style, captivating a generation with a fascination for the bygone decades.

2000

Retro Digital Photography

With the advancement of technology, digital photography became the norm in the 2000s. However, alongside this digital revolution, retro-inspired photography, such as using film cameras and vintage filters, gained popularity. This trend reflected a desire for the aesthetics of analog photography, characterized by soft tones, light leaks, and a grainy quality, which contrasted the crispness of digital images.

Did you know?

Did you know that 'Retro' comes from the Latin word Retro, meaning 'backward' or 'in past times'? Looks like our love for retrospection has some pretty retro roots!