It is often said that fashion is cyclical and that styles often come back around. That may be one reason why vintage clothing is so popular. There is something about a well-made dress or outfit from the past that makes people stand up and take notice. Is it the handmade quality that draws people in? Maybe it is the personalised touch of clothing made to measure. Or the nostalgia of bygone eras when things seemed simpler. Whatever the reason, vintage and vintage-inspired clothing is back in style again.
Collectible Fashions
Vintage clothing is sought after because it has a history to it that makes it unique. Often, the clothes were created for a specific person to wear, made to their measurements and hand-crafted. Some clothing may have been designed to be worn to a special event like a wedding or party. You can often find fashions that were worn for a specific purpose kept in a museum as a link to that event. Collectors are often willing to pay top dollar at auction to own vintage fashions that were worn by people who are considered to be style icons like Diana, Princess of Wales or Elizabeth Taylor.
Since fabric does not always age well, it can be difficult to find vintage clothing that is in wearable condition. Tears, rips, and holes are common problems for clothing that has been worn before. Fabrics may also become discoloured or faded in storage. If you are planning to wear a vintage outfit, you may need to have it restored first. On the other hand, if you are collecting and displaying vintage clothes, proper care will need to be taken to ensure that it stays in good condition for years to come.
Newer Options
For those who like the look of vintage clothing, but don’t want to go to the effort of locating, restoring, and possibly altering the clothes, vintage-inspired fashion may fit the bill. Designed to incorporate the lines and styles of vintage fashions, vintage-inspired clothes are a creative homage to the past. These inspired looks are unique because they combine the simplicity of design of the past with today’s fabrics and textiles to create completely new and fresh looks.
There are many up-and-coming, fashion-forward designers that incorporate vintage elements of style into their clothing. You can find many of their boutiques online and have their designs shipped directly to you for reasonable prices. This way, you can have a touch of vintage style in your modern wardrobe without breaking the bank.
Vintage clothing brings many memories and moments to mind and as fashion continues to be reinvented, it will always be in style.