In recent weeks, fashion labels have been launching their Fall/Winter collections one after another. But if you’re not one to follow trends closely and yet don’t want to risk looking unfashionable, try vintage. After all, the look is always in! But finding good vintage pieces does not have to be just based on pure luck. You’ll be surprised what rare—not to mention affordable gems—you can find on blogshops and websites, particularly those focusing on vintage styles. Here are some of my favourites.
Top pick:
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This is the site that got me hooked on the whole vintage scene. The gorgeous face behind Bleubird is a certain Miss James Kicinski, who used to model the (equally gorgeous) clothes herself. The shop has undergone a few changes recently and now offers vintage threads for women, men and children. Its winning element has to be the very professionally and beautifully shot lookbooks that look more like fashion editorials than products catalogues. |
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Shirt US$26, from Bleubird |
Dress US$56, from Bleubird |
Nasty Girl is one of the most successful online vintage stores you can find. Other than the regular once-off vintage pieces, the store also occasionally stocks “deadstock “ vintage clothing, sunglasses and accessories that are old but unworn. Vintage often brings to mind the more feminine looks of the ‘50s and ‘60s, which is why Nasty Girl stands out with its large collection of edgier pieces from the ‘80s. Remember to spot the famous fashion bloggers who model for them!
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Dress, US$58 from Nasty Girl |
Dress, US$48 from Nasty Girl |
Started by a pair of high school sweethearts for their love of vintage and retro clothes, the Modcloth brand has expanded into a virtual indie clothing haven. Although it now stocks non-vintage threads from over 100 designers, its vintage section consists of pre-loved goodies, ranging from apparel to homeware. New items are added almost daily so be sure to check back frequently.
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Dress, US$52.90 from Modcloth |
Rings, US$6.99 each from Modcloth |
In Singapore, Nicole’s online boutique is currently my favourite vintage online shop. I love the spirit of her photographs, where she multitasks as both model and photographer. Her picks are often either very flamboyant and fun or classy and timeless. Whichever way you like your vintage, you will be sure to find something to love over here. Look out for her very chic vintage handbags–I have my eye on a particularly weathered leather briefcase on sale right now.
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Dress, S$27.90 from Nicole Then |
Dress, S$36.90 from Nicole Then |
Also based in Singapore, I recently stumbled upon Five Stones and was pleasantly surprised by their clean, neat layout and pretty, affordable frocks. With so many dresses priced under $40, you can afford to indulge a little here. I especially like their small collection of leather belts with interesting, attention-grabbing buckles.
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Five Stones Vintage |
Have fun shopping for vintage pieces online!
Dottie Tan
Shopaholic Dottie Tan scours shops—big, small, online and offline—to unearth fashion must-haves and beauty gems that you did not know you needed. That’s until you read her weekly column, Fashion Nation on inSing.com, which tracks her retail adventures. Indulge yourself, go shopping!
