The charm of vintage fashion is undeniable, offering not only unique and timeless pieces but also a sustainable way to build a wardrobe. From rare designer items to simple, well-loved treasures, vintage shopping continues to captivate fashion enthusiasts and editors alike.
Leading this trend, editors from top fashion publications, including Vogue, have shared their most treasured vintage purchases, offering a glimpse into their carefully curated collections and the stories behind these iconic finds.
Editors’ Top Vintage Finds
From iconic pieces by Dior to everyday staples, here are nine fashion editors’ top vintage purchases and where they found them.
1. Rosa Weait, Fashion Assistant
Rosa’s latest find, a pink Balenciaga City bag, was a stroke of luck. After a year of searching for the perfect bag, her mother spotted it in a vintage shop window. The shop was closing down, and it seemed the bag was gone, but a little rummaging revealed it was still there. With a FaceTime call to seal the deal, Rosa became the proud owner of the bag, which she now uses daily for both work and play.
2. Laura Ingham, Deputy Director, Global Fashion Network
For Laura, it was love at first sight with a Dior bar jacket. Having seen it on the runway, she immediately recognized its timeless design and made it an investment piece.
Laura believes in the concept of “future vintage,” where high-quality, well-crafted pieces are meant to last generations. This Dior jacket has become a staple in her wardrobe, embodying both elegance and durability.
3. Charlotte Rutter, Fashion Assistant
Charlotte’s obsession with vintage fashion led her to the discovery of the perfect pair of yellow Prada mules from the ’90s. After watching the Prada autumn/winter 1995 runway show, she couldn’t get the image of those yellow heels out of her mind.
When she spotted the exact pair on Vinted, in her size, she knew it was fate. These mules are now a prized part of her collection, reflecting both her love for vintage runway pieces and her unique sense of style.
4. Lois Adeoshun, Fashion Assistant
Lois found her Gucci Bamboo bag at the Frock Me vintage fair in Chelsea. The bag’s bamboo details stood out to her immediately, and she knew it would be a perfect addition to her wardrobe. The vintage condition of the bag only adds to its charm, giving it a nostalgic feel. Lois loves how the bag can elevate any outfit, from casual denim to evening wear.
5. Mia Portet, Shopping Producer
Mia’s vintage find is a Galliano J’Adore Dior tank top, which she discovered on eBay for just £21 back in 2017. The top’s vibrant color-blocking and Y2K style make it a standout piece in her wardrobe.
Mia enjoys styling it with vintage denim and cargo pants, making it perfect for the warmer months. Her find not only brings back memories of a nostalgic era but also proves that great style doesn’t have to break the bank.
6. Naomi Smart, Shopping Director
Naomi’s hunt for a more affordable version of Prada’s barn jacket led her to an unexpected discovery in Venice. The jacket, made from worn-in leather with chocolate-brown lapels, had been lovingly cared for, despite being 20 to 30 years old. At just €150, Naomi couldn’t resist buying it. She now wears it regularly, appreciating the balance of quality and affordability that vintage fashion can offer.
7. Joy Montgomery, Shopping Editor
Joy’s most cherished vintage purchase is a Raf Simons for Christian Dior spring/summer 2014 coat, which she found at Reluxe’s vintage pop-up on Golborne Road. The coat’s design, reflecting the beauty and craftsmanship of Simons’ work, holds sentimental value for Joy, as it reminds her of her early days in fashion. The coat not only symbolizes a personal milestone but also stands as a piece of fashion history.
8. Alice Cary, Senior Shopping Writer
Alice’s vintage find was a cropped black leather jacket that she stumbled upon at a pop-up shop by the Parisian boutique Nuovo. The jacket’s fit and style drew her in, reminding her of the vintage pieces that inspired Kate Moss’s collections for Topshop. Alice was immediately sold on the unique design, which now adds a sophisticated touch to her wardrobe.
9. Julia Storm, Contributing Shopping Writer
Julia’s Burberry coat has been passed down through generations in her family. Originally purchased by her grandmother, the coat was passed down to her mother before finding a home in Julia’s wardrobe.
She treasures the coat not only for its sentimental value but also for its timeless design. Julia believes that vintage pieces like this Burberry coat are meant to be worn, and she regularly incorporates it into her weekly outfits, adding a modern twist to its classic look.
The Enduring Appeal of Vintage Fashion
Vintage fashion continues to captivate both seasoned fashion editors and newcomers alike. Whether it’s the allure of rare designer items, the sustainability of second-hand shopping, or simply the joy of finding something unique, vintage pieces offer a level of individuality and craftsmanship that new collections often lack. For fashion insiders, these carefully curated finds aren’t just about adding items to a wardrobe; they’re about preserving pieces of fashion history that transcend trends and become part of personal style.
As the second-hand market grows, it’s clear that vintage shopping isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a movement that’s here to stay.
