25 Vintage Treasures You Need Now, According to Jenny Walton Are you ready to breathe new life into your wardrobe with the timeless charm of vintage fashion? Vintage pieces are more than just clothing; they’re a statement of individuality, sustainability, and style. In a world where fast fashion dominates, there’s a growing desire to embrace the elegance and uniqueness of fashion from past decades. Jenny Walton, a prominent fashion icon, has curated a list of 25 vintage treasures that you absolutely need to own right now. From rare handbags to iconic footwear, these items offer endless styling possibilities that never go out of fashion. But how do you identify the pieces that will elevate your style and last through the ages? Let’s dive into these curated vintage finds and explore how to incorporate them into your modern wardrobe.
Few people understand vintage fashion quite like Jenny Walton—and even fewer wear it with her impeccable flair. This is exactly why the Milan-based style icon has amassed such a devoted following. Walton’s secret to pulling off vintage looks that span across decades lies in her styling expertise. Picture this: pairing a vintage brooch with a modern Prada cashmere cardigan or wearing a 1950s circle skirt alongside the latest Gucci slingbacks. But where does she find these extraordinary pieces? While vintage shoppers are notoriously secretive about their sources, Walton is generously sharing her favorite finds with Vogue. Every month, she scours the internet to uncover the best vintage buys of the moment. These are the vintage treasures you need now, according to Walton.
As winter drags on, with its frosty temperatures and endless layering dilemmas, one aspect of the season remains a bright spot: the warmth and character of a cozy vintage sweater. Let’s face it, without the personality of a standout sweater, we’d be stuck cycling through bulky puffer jackets and unflattering thermals. Instead, you get to enjoy a 1950s cardigan covered in sequins dazzling enough to catch the eye of passing airplanes. Not a fan of sequins? How about a rare designer piece like an early 2000s Rodarte open-knit sweater that offers the warmth of a cheese grater? In a season of sartorial sacrifices, these vintage gems are the one thing that makes winter fashion bearable, even if it’s just the chance to wear your (or someone else’s) grandmother’s embellished masterpiece.
Happy vintage shopping!
— Jenny
This Chanel sweater from 1998 embodies effortless elegance, reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn herself. Soft, understated, and impossibly chic, it captures that iconic Holly Golightly charm with a delicate, slightly flared silhouette and sleeves just the right length to showcase your favorite jewelry. It pairs perfectly with black cigarette pants and ballet flats, channeling that timeless, gamine allure.
Next, this vintage Hermès sleeveless turtleneck in 100% cashmere is the definition of understated luxury. The rich camel hue evokes the minimalist yet chic elegance that Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy made so iconic. Priced at under $300, this piece is not only a stylish investment but, if cared for properly, will easily retain its value.
Lastly, this 1950s Lillie Rubin cardigan in seafoam green is vintage glamour at its finest—a sparkling gem from a bygone era. The soft pink silk cuffs offer an unexpected yet stunning contrast. With its timeless silhouette and exquisite detailing, this cardigan feels like it was plucked straight from a Hollywood starlet’s wardrobe.
1. Vintage Handbags: Timeless Elegance
When it comes to elevating any outfit, a vintage handbag can make all the difference. Classic leather bags from brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci are more than just accessories—they’re investment pieces. A well-chosen vintage bag can enhance both casual and formal looks, giving your wardrobe a touch of old-world charm and sophistication.
Top Picks:
- Chanel 2.55 Flap Bag
- Louis Vuitton Monogram Speedy
- Gucci Jackie Bag
2. Retro Dresses: Flattering for All Figures
Vintage dresses are the epitome of elegance. Whether it’s a 1950s A-line dress or a 1970s boho-inspired gown, retro dresses never fail to make an impact. Their flattering cuts, unique patterns, and luxurious fabrics bring a sense of nostalgia while remaining stylish.
How to Style:
- Pair with modern accessories for a balanced, chic look.
- Opt for vintage jewelry to complete the ensemble.
3. Funky Prints: Bold Patterns from the 80s and 90s
Are you looking to make a statement? Vintage bold prints, especially from the 80s and 90s, are making a huge comeback. From geometric patterns to colorful florals, these prints can be a great way to add a little personality to your wardrobe.
Top Prints:
- Bold geometric patterns
- Retro florals and paisleys
- Pop art-inspired designs
4. Statement Outerwear: Vintage Coats and Jackets
A vintage coat is one of the best investments you can make for your wardrobe. Trench coats, fur coats, and military-style jackets offer both warmth and style, ensuring you stay chic even in colder months.
Top Picks:
- 1970s wool trench coats
- 1980s oversized bomber jackets
- Classic faux fur coats
5. Vintage Footwear: Unmatched Craftsmanship
The beauty of vintage shoes lies in the craftsmanship and quality of materials. Leather boots, high heels, and loafers from past decades provide comfort without compromising on style. Look for brands that have maintained their reputation for high-quality footwear, like Salvatore Ferragamo and Manolo Blahnik.
Top Footwear Picks:
- 1950s oxford shoes
- 1980s ankle boots
- Retro platform heels
6. Vintage Jewelry: Elegant Pieces with History
Vintage jewelry pieces are often unique, with detailed craftsmanship that modern accessories simply can’t replicate. From 1940s Art Deco brooches to 1970s chunky gold chains, these pieces not only add sophistication but also tell a story.
Popular Jewelry Styles:
- Art Deco
- Victorian-era gold rings
- Chunky 90s chains
7. Sustainable Fashion: The Ethical Appeal of Vintage
As sustainability becomes a key factor in fashion, vintage clothing offers a fantastic alternative to fast fashion. By purchasing vintage, you’re reducing waste and promoting ethical shopping practices while also discovering one-of-a-kind pieces that stand out in any crowd.
How to Incorporate Vintage into Your Modern Wardrobe
Mix and Match with Modern Pieces: Vintage treasures don’t have to dominate your look. You can seamlessly incorporate them into your wardrobe by pairing them with contemporary items for a balanced, curated aesthetic.
Experiment with Accessories: If you’re hesitant about fully embracing vintage fashion, start with accessories like scarves, hats, and belts. These small touches can make a big impact and transform an outfit.
Be Patient and Take Your Time: Building a vintage collection doesn’t happen overnight. Take the time to find pieces that resonate with your style and feel authentic to you. Over time, you’ll develop a unique wardrobe that speaks to your individual taste.
FAQs
1. What are the best vintage items to buy?
Vintage handbags, statement dresses, retro shoes, and jewelry are the top treasures to seek out. These pieces elevate any wardrobe with timeless style.
2. How do I know if a vintage item is authentic?
Look for brand markings, stitching details, and material quality. Researching the specific item’s characteristics will help you identify genuine vintage pieces.
3. Can I wear vintage items every day?
Absolutely! With careful styling, vintage pieces can easily be worn in everyday outfits, adding a unique flair to casual looks or formal events.
4. Where can I buy vintage fashion?
You can find vintage treasures at specialized boutiques, online marketplaces like Etsy, or secondhand stores and estate sales.
5. How can I care for my vintage clothing?
To maintain vintage items, clean them gently, store them in a cool, dry place, and handle them with care to preserve their quality.
6. Why should I choose vintage over fast fashion?
Vintage items are sustainable, unique, and often better crafted than mass-produced fashion, making them an eco-friendly and timeless choice.
Conclusion:
Vintage fashion isn’t just a trend—it’s a movement that embraces individuality, sustainability, and timeless style. By curating a collection of vintage treasures, you can elevate your wardrobe with pieces that are both classic and contemporary. Jenny Walton’s list of 25 must-have vintage finds provides the perfect starting point for anyone looking to add a touch of old-world charm to their modern style. Embrace the beauty and history of vintage fashion, and watch your wardrobe transform into something truly unique.
