Ariana Grande is the latest star to take a trip down memory lane with vintage Versace. Taking her seat as a judge on The Voice, Grande wore a multicoloured minidress from the brand’s spring collection in 2003. Jennifer Garner fans, however, might recognise the look from the cult classic 13 Going on 30.
That’s right, the dress in question is the exact style worn by Jenna Rink. (If it’s been a while, she wears it to a party for Poise, the magazine she works for in her new life as a thirty-something power woman, with a crystal butterfly necklace, resin bubble rings and a spiked up ‘do for an early ‘00s girl band kind of vibe.)
The trend for vintage fashion - sustainable but also story-telling - is well and truly having a moment on the red carpet (Zendaya, Iris Law, Olivia Rodrigo and Rihanna are all fans of cracking out classic archival pieces). Zendaya, incidentally, has also worn a dress from Versace SS03 - in homage to Beyoncé, who first wore a similar look to 2003’s BET Awards - proving that that particular collection is the gift that keeps on giving. As Law Roach, Zendaya’s image architect, put it on Instagram: ‘Get you a stylist with an ARCHIVE!’
For her throwback, Grande wore frosted pink eyeshadow, crystal earrings and a similarly spiky hairstyle as Rink's. The ultimate irony is that Grande, of course, is still in her twenties. But with a little help from Versace, she too can be, ‘30, flirty and thriving’.
SHOP: The Best Vintage Sellers And Shops Online
Nina Gabbana Vintage
The source of Rihanna's blue Dior by John Galliano beaded choker, Nina Gabbana Vintage is run by Marie Laboucarié from her apartment in Paris. She mainly sells '90s and '00s pieces from designers including Dolce and Gabbana, Dior, Gucci, Fendi and more. Well, if it's good enough for Rihanna...
May de Vere Vintage
If you're looking for a showstopper of an outfit that nobody else will have even seen, May de Vere is your answer. There are glittering sequined pieces, puff sleeve party frocks and wonderfully over-the-top, frothy concoctions with oversized bow details. There are more understated options, too, but it's almost impossible to resist the frills and flourishes on offer. Every piece is a one-off and can be purchased via Instagram.
ASOS Marketplace
While you might not think of ASOS as the most obvious choice when it comes to buying vintage, there are actually a number of brilliant sellers on the brand's Marketplace. It's one of the best places to look for pre-loved designer pieces, some of which are very affordable. While many of the boutiques are worth checking frequently, look out also for The Rare Edit, a a limited curated collection of rare designer vintage pieces. Follow @asosmarketplace on Instagram to keep tabs on when the next drop will happen.
Darling & Vintage
Cassie set up Darling & Vintage as a store on Etsy, where she still sells everything from embroidered 1950s jackets to sun dresses and '70s maxis. It's certainly worth following her on Instagram, however, where she announces new items for sale. Given the speed at which most of them tend to sell, it's best to keep a close eye on her posts!
Bonjour Vintage
A relatively new venture from influencer Rachael Clifton, this is a great Instagram account to follow if you're in the market for stand-out pieces you could wear every day. Think excellent accessories and statement jackets, all of which can be bought via DM.
A Virtual Vintage Market
Not only will you find live markets that you can follow via Instagram (a very welcome way to spend yet another day in lockdown), you'll also find information on independent sellers around the world, giving you plenty of options. One of the founders has also established Peony Vintage, which allows you to shop pieces directly from the website.
Retold Vintage
Every piece is handpicked by owner Clare Lewis, who favours modern, directional pieces that are built to last. As well as clothes that work for every day, Retold also offers a personal shopping service for prospective brides.
Rokit Vintage
A vintage stalwart in London, Rokit is a treasure trove packed with everything from perfect party dresses to knitwear, shoes, belts and bags. If you can't find something you love here, then you're possibly just not looking hard enough. Best of all, there's something for every budget.
Imparfaite Paris
Imparfaite offers a curated selection of pre-loved clothes and accessories from France's most beloved vintage shops. From Gucci bags to Levi's shorts, this is certainly the place to find pieces that will collect compliments and become some of your favourite clothes in your wardrobe.