Buying second-hand clothes and accessories (“pre-loved”) was once a practice mainly carried out in secret. You didn’t want your upwardly mobile friends to know your Armani suit started its life on someone else’s back. It made you seem down-at-heel; someone to be sneered at. But today the smart money is on vintage items, which can increase in value if properly cared for, as well as make you look totally on-trend. So buying pre-loved is absolutely de rigueur!
Don Draper
It’s unsurprising that fifties and sixties vintage fashion is so on-trend, when you’ve got popular series such as Mad Men on the small screen. While the top catwalk designers are showing cigarette pants and stovepipe trousers in their new collections, there’s nothing quite like wearing an authentic vintage suit. You can find them on the internet and at the better vintage markets but don’t expect to get them for jumble sale prices. One on-line shop that’s definitely worth checking out is Oxfam’s Vintage section. It’s a bit hit or miss but you can definitely find some gems there, from names such as Christian Dior, Burberry and Daks. Put on your suit and start channelling the originators of cool, such as Dirk Bogarde or Gregory Peck.
Nifty Neckwear
Even if you don’t want a pre-owned suit, a vintage silk tie or cravat can speak volumes. If you like your look classic, then you could pick up a second-hand Hermès silk tie. As ladies who own their scarves know, wearing Hermès says it all; there is no better statement piece. If you’re more of a relaxed, man-about-town, why not opt for a cravat? Silk cravats are being seen on modern dandies such as Orlando Bloom, Russell Brand and Martin Freeman. They’re both comfortable and stylish. You can find them in a plethora of colours and patterns.
Have You Got the Time?
You’ve got your sixties suit and tie, but what’s that Baby G doing on your wrist? To complete the authentic look, you need the right watch. It’s worth noting that collecting vintage watches is an increasingly popular trend; partly because older watch models are in vogue but mainly because they’re seen as a prudent investment, provided you choose wisely. Brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex should only ever increase in value, and it doesn’t hurt that they look absolutely fantastic on your wrist. If you’re unsure where to source your vintage watch, check out Market Cross Jewellers, who have a great selection.
Whether you’re looking to acquire some heirloom pieces that will increase in value, or you simply want to look the business, buying second-hand is definitely worth it.