Shopping vintage is not only brilliant for the environment, but it's perfect for giving your summer style a serious boost. Tracking down hidden gems can be unbelievably satisfying, especially when you come across a designer scorcher.
For seasoned vintage veterans, it will be no surprise to hear that sourcing pre-loved items is great for our planet. Not only does it reduce the amount of resources required to produce brand-new clothing, but it also stops vintage garments from ending up in landfill. According to reports, as much as 92 million tonnes of clothing ends up in landfills - with only 20 per cent of textiles collected for reuse or recycling globally.
Plus, shopping vintage is a stellar way to find really cool pieces that are unique and move away from high street trends. If you're considering upping your vintage-style game, rest assured, you'll be in excellent company.
Us mere mortals are not the only ones shifting our consumer habits towards shopping more sustainably. In fact, the likes of Maya Jama, Sydney Sweeney, Bella Hadid, Dua Lipa and Zendaya are also onboard, having each worn vintage designer looks on the red carpet while Kylie Jenner and Sofia Richie Grainge have a slew of retro Chanel pieces on rotation.
In additional to being a more mindful consumer practice, shopping secondhand ensures that your wardrobe will stand-out - no matter the occasion. There's something magical about the ruffle of an Emanuel Ungaro number, the air-light caress of a Cavalli mesh top or the feminine floral burst of a Blumarine blouse.
Discover the best vintage frocks to shop below and inject your timeless wardrobe with a touch of storied style.
Best vintage dresses to shop now:
2003 Runway Corseted Lace-Up Ruffled Sheer Silk Chiffon Dress
Versace
Versace's celebrity-adored corseted dress from the brand's autumn/winter 2003 collection is a truly special piece. Showcasing an olive green hue, a boned bodice, a sheer silk chiffon composition with ruffles and ribboned lace up fastening at the front and back, this stellar pick has been famously sported by the likes of Beyonce, Christina Aguilera (twice), Rita Ora, Bella Hadid, SZA, Devon Lee Carlson, and Iris Law.
Vintage SS 1999 Venus De Milo Mesh Dress
Jean Paul Gaultier
Printed with Jean Paul Gaultier's iconic ‘Venus De Milo’ print in burgundy and yellow, this low scoop neckline maxi dress is a graphic gem. With its sunset-hued colourway, this longline piece will take you from day to night with ease.
SS 2003 Mint Green Silk Satin Floral Cross Stitch Mini Dress
John Galliano
Hailing from John Galliano's spring/summer 2003 collection, this mesmerising mini is an archival charm. Featuring a mint green silky finish, pink floral cross stitch embroidery on each bust, mother of pearl buttons engraved with 'JG,' tie-up peephole sides and a pink silk trim, this rare piece is set to delight Noughties style lovers.
1940s Baby Blue Slip Dress
Annie's Archive
This original 1940s silk gown with lace detailing is like finding a diamond in the rough and will quickly become your most prized possession. Wear with dainty ballet flats, chunky boots or no shoes at all to activate your 'Disney Princess' era.
60s Print Mini Dress
Emilio Pucci
Featuring Pucci's iconic baroque print in the brand's signature seafoam green, blue and white colourway, this 1960s jewel is not to be missed. Not only do the brand's pieces rarely lose value, but the Sixties shift style of the frock and sleeveless design radiate retro appeal.
1970s Paris Turquoise Racer Back Jersey Maxi Dress
Mac Tac
A rare gem from the 1970s, this vintage dress by French luxury label Mac Tac of Paris is cut from fluid Ban-Lon jersey that enhances both movement and colour. Designed with a sweeping, elongated silhouette, it showcases a sharply defined bodice that draws in at the waist before flowing into a sleek racerback.
Y2K Darling Green Check Midi Dress
Rokit London
If there's ever one rule to live by it's that you can never go wrong with a vintage midi dress that's stitched to perfection. This green tartan option says summer in all the right ways and can even be styled over boyfriend jeans when the temperature starts to drop.
1990s Pink Silk Maxi Dress with Crystal Straps
Ralph Lauren
This delightfully girlish Ralph Lauren silk maxi dress channels Gwyneth Paltrow’s iconic 1999 Oscars gown. Crafted in candy-pink shot silk with lime chiffon lining, it features beaded straps, in-seam pockets, and a flowing A-line cut.
1920s Pink Silk Lace Teddy
Annie's Ibiza
An adorable slip dress that's brimming with whimsy romance, this lace-frosted antique dazzles with its handmade lace embroidery at the neckline and trims the bottom. Team yours with ballet pumps or cowboy boots for a Sabrina Carpenter-coded aesthetic.
How we chose the pieces:
Vintage Status: Each item on this list is pre-owned and from an old collection that is no longer available to purchase new.
Price: We have selected items from a range of high street and designer brands, allowing for each budget to indulge in this trend.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
