Vintage: Authentic or Inspired?

Saga Vintage Mink Fur Crop Jacket, Maison Martin Margiela Vintage Treated Booties, Top by Beyond Vintage Tops, Chanel Vintage Mink Chain Tote, Herbet Johnson Vintage Wide Brimmed Hat, Vintage Leather Display Missy Dress Form

Giorgio Brato Vintage Leather Jacket, Crown Vintage High Heels, Chanel Vintage Mink Chain Tote

Vintage clothing is in high demand as more and more celebrities, socialites, and extraordinary fashionistas swarm the runways and consignment shops to find one of a kind vintage garments, shoes, handbags, and jewelry. Although second hand garments, vintage items originating from a previous era have translated history to current day in demand fashion. Rachel Zoe, a celebrity stylist turned fashion designer embraces the style from this era with a passion that is undeniable. She's "all things vintage". So what's the difference between authentic vintage and vintage inspired?


Authentic vintage clothing are pieces that originated between the 1920's and the mid-1970's, although opinions vary. Some consider vintage to be anything older than 25 years. Anything prior to 1920 is considered antique and is usually collectible items for display rather than wear. Vintage clothing is not mass produced so you have an opportunity to compliment your unique style - with a unique item - with a unique piece of history binding every stitch. It's the rare opportunity to give new life to a garment.

Vintage inspired also known as vintage style clothing is clothing that imitates the style from that era. To distress a pair of denim jeans or treat a pair of boots are ways in which a designer can create a vintage inspired fashion item. The benefit is a new, never-worn garment or accessory that embraces the vintage style.

With an increased interest in environmental sustainability the desire to repair, recycle, or reuse is high. Vintage clothing is just one way to support this effort. You can find vintage pieces at varied price points in boutiques nestled in major cities such as C Madeleine's in Miami, Resurrection and Decades in Los Angeles, and New York Vintage in New York on West 25th Street. Frequent trips and a thorough sweep of clothing racks are vital for shopping vintage. Selecting quality pieces free of damage is key for ready-to-wear but rare one-of-a-kind pieces are worth repair.

Forget the mind boggling images of your grandmother's closet; although I'd start there if I were you, vintage clothing can be edgy, sexy, and fun.