Why Buying Vintage Clothes Is 'the New Luxury'

Back in 2003, when Kate Moss wore a 1950s French couturier Jean Dessès, perfect in a pale yellow dress, worn off-the-shoulder, it caused mayhem among the second-hand stores, where women were looking for something that would come even nearly close to Moss’s dress. But one can’t find vintage easy.

In 2007, Moss teamed up with Topshop to create clothes inspired by her favourite looks (including the Dessès dress), there was a sense of relief. In the 1970’s Yves Saint Laurent, sent models down the ramp in his mothers evening gowns which dated back to the 40s. Bryan Ferry and Roxy Music suited up in Humphrey Bogart drag and retro GI gear, and people would recreate such looks with flea-market finds.

It’s 2020, and vintage is back in the game. The only difference? This time it’s back for good. This time, a change is noticed among people where they’re becoming aware of how their choices can affect the environment. This could be the best thing all of us can do in this climate crisis since resources are limited, vintage is what can help the planet.

During the lockdown, British brand, Connolly wanted to do something different and hence turned to vintage consultant and Portobello stallholder Frank Akinsete to come up with eight pieces from their past collection which would be upcycled. The result turned out to be magnificent as the dip-dyed, hand-block printed capsule collection, named after Akinsete’s blue Burmese cat Rocky was ultra-cool and beyond its time.

Akinsete feels vintage today is more than just trendy, it’s a lifestyle. The popularity of vintage is because people are understanding what is fast fashion and how it affects the environment. Our generation is facing a new crisis called global warming and the youngsters have to consider this. Designers and makers can be problem solvers too. Through vintage and upcycling they can address this crisis. Vintage seems like a logical retort to fast fashion and climate change as an issue. A generation that has everything to gain and nothing to lose by embracing sustainable practices is waking up, and they mean business.

New York-based creative director Brynn Hemingway collaborated with various brands earlier in 2020, and she also launched Display Copy, a new fashion platform that showcases elevated, upcycled and vintage pieces. Vintage is Gen Z’s creative expression to find things outside the traditional fashion system and make it their own.

When you purchase vintage clothing you show your understanding of the political climate. Recycling isn’t enough, we have to start keeping things and not throw them. Repairing and mending which was once a necessity now represent a skill.