Vintage is New

Born of a generation jaded by mass-production and fast fashion, where high streets are heavy with choices, a new epoch has begun.  Where previously fashion has been reinvented, like the old notion of fashion always coming full circle, we are now going straight to the source – and buying originals.  With increased momentum today’s youth are ditching diluted high street looks in favour of charity shops and auctions where real treasure lies therein. 

Fashion is, in simple terms, a popular mode of expression.  It is a style and custom prevalent to a period in time and prone to fluctuate in response to social and economic changes.  So what is it that now inspires a new generation to not only look back and be inspired, but to actively seek out original clothing and wear it once more?       

Encouraged by celebrity endorsement and cultivated during a time of global and economic awareness, vintage has been propelled from second-hand status to a movement and style all of its own.  Adopted initially by famous faces, vintage was seen as a way to demonstrate fashion insight, from vintage Chanel for the Oscars to a Mary Quant mini about town.  Vintage was suddenly stylish and second-hand was chic. 

Encouraged by the stars vintage has become acceptable, and what’s more; it’s accessible, because vintage fashion is affordable fashion.  In fact, if you are financially savvy then you have probably been buying vintage already.  Good quality high street prices are enough but designer labels could really break the bank.  Buying vintage means that you can get quality and style for a fraction of the cost, while careful buying could mean you are actually making an investment. 

From saving money to saving our planet, increasingly interest has grown in curbing our impact.  Environmentally we find new ways to power our homes, sort our rubbish, and save energy.  But being green doesn’t just end there, for vintage clothing is an excellent way to recycle.  Think of all the clothing that is already out there, quality pieces with history and style.  You can even sell your own collection, from 20’s flapper dresses to original 80’s it’s all on trend and in demand.   

Why buy an inspired imitation when you can buy Biba? And with it buy a piece of history.  With vintage clothing you can be assured that no one will have the same outfit.  For there is nothing worse than saving up for that big purchase only to wear it the same night as someone else, a realistic side effect to contemporary fashion.  When you buy vintage you are stepping out from the mass-produced and reaching into any era you desire. 

Vintage clothing is like a history machine preserving a little pocket of time.  Increasingly embraced by the discerning buyer, it is quickly taking hold in the market-place and rightly so, for it is unique, well-made and most of all, the original.  Vintage is your old and my new, it is the ability to reach into the past and go wherever you wish; you can travel to any corner of the world and any period of time in an outfit.