VINTAGE CLOTHES

Antique look scarf, chunky lacy knit dress, wedge heeled boots

 I LOVE VINTAGE CLOTHES

 I think I like shopping for Vintage clothes  best.  Really it’s the easiest way to find something different, mostly below budget restrictions and usually of quality.  I cannot resist charity shops and I also cannot pass a swap shop.

 OK , so I've added modern accessories ie the scarf, boots, leggings.  Well you have to be of your own generation, even younger if it suits you.  Actually I wouldn't recommend  vintage underwear unless it comes with a government warning or to be the foundation of a truly period piece.

The picture on the right is pretty standard attire of a vintage black top but this one has lovely little "mother-of-pearl" buttons, at the wrist.  The jeans are the current skinny type, another cheat, sorry, but I found it a flattering and practical look and if worn with nice jewellery could take me nearly everywhere. 

 Here are a few of my favourites

With modern accessories and an imaginative way to assemble an ensemble one can almost be considered chic, even in France !!   

There are little flowers embroidered at neckline

 

 This outfit is from Portobello Road Market in London.  It is a knitted dress that fits flatteringly around the hips and is probably circa 1969. 








I teamed it with a flame coloured silk pashmina.
                                                                Boots, as before, they remind me of  high heeled sports shoes.

Below is a blue suede shirt-waister dress which I found in the new(ish)Vintage Clothes Department of Galleries Layfayette, Paris.  I've added an Ungaro belt of three colours which has been in my own wardrobe for a very long time.  I couldn't part with it.   Hmm - worrying when one finds"vintage" in one's own wardrobe! Oh well!

Another thing is to be prepared to alter garments, either you are handy with a needle or else you have found a tame alterations dress maker to re-create and re-fit.  I don't mind the effort as the result is most satisfying.  At least you can be assured of having an outfit unique to you.

I shortened the dress and opened up slits on both sides.  The dress is teamed with wine coloured tights and navy blue suede booties with stacked heel.

You will find a Vintage shop that is of your standard acceptable, but mostly the garments are lovingly restored to their former glory.  I have also noticed that the owners and their helpers are usually cheerful and helpful, even in Paris.  They tend to be pretty chic too and certainly creative.  

As for the chic part, in Paris, if you happen to have spent time in a vintage clothes shop near closing time, the staff are often quaffing champagne out of stylish champagne flutes, certainly of the vintage variety.  I thought I might have been offered a "coupe", but perhaps I hadn't spent enough money that day to merit even one glass. Maybe next time.

Come Vintage Clothes Shopping with me in Paris - www.bestvintageclothesshoppingparis.com