By Mary Gui
Mary Gui is the founder of Layers of Chic, an eclectically feminine style blog. The blog emphasizes the mixing of vintage and modern pieces and features creative style tips and unconventional outfit inspiration. http://www.layersofchic.com/
Let me Tell you about my Fashion Essentials.
My personal style is all about mixing vintage and modern pieces to achieve a unique look. I always get comments from my readers about how they can’t pull off vintage or don’t know where to start when it comes to vintage shopping. Even I find it hard sometimes to find pieces that are just right, but in my years of vintage hunting I’ve discovered 5 vintage essentials that you can’t go wrong with and that anyone can add to their wardrobe!
Fashion Essential – A Vintage Denim Jacket
A vintage denim jacket can quickly become your new favorite wardrobe staple. Denim gets better with age, so it’s no surprise that the best denim jackets are vintage. When shopping for vintage denim, look for special details like embroidery, interesting buttons, and unconventional fabrics, such as velvet sleeves and patchwork. The great thing about a denim jacket is that the sizing is flexible, and an oversized jacket can be super chic! A vintage denim jacket is so versatile and acts as great outerwear over a dress during the Fall and Spring seasons.
A Feminine Vintage Dress
Perhaps my favorite vintage item is a vintage dress. Vintage dresses have the uncanny ability to make me feel like the prettiest girl in the room. A vintage slip dress is always a good way to go, and you pair it under a light jacket for Spring or Summer. I would also look for classic vintage shapes like a high waist fit and flare or a shift dress, as well as interesting fabrics like velvet. A good styling trick is to pair a vintage dress with another layer either under or over the dress for a more modern look.
A Quaint Vintage Handbag
Almost every vintage store has a vintage handbag, so this is one of the easiest pieces to shop for and acquire. When shopping for a vintage handbag, I look for small bags with a structured shape and interesting details. I love the quaintness of a vintage handbag and how it can instantly elevate any outfit and add a touch of femininity.
Classic Vintage Jewelry
Like a vintage handbag, vintage jewelry is easy for shop for because there are no size constraints, and for vintage newbies it is a good way tiptoe your way into the vintage world. One of my favorite vintage pieces to shop for are vintage clip-on earrings. They are so feminine and classic, and remind me of a 1950’s housewife. I look for special details like a pretty floral design or pearl embellishment. Another great piece is a vintage jeweled ring that can be the star of the show on your hands.
A Vintage Leather Vest
This is probably the least conventional piece when you think of vintage, and thus also the hardest to find. Not all stores will have a section on vintage vests, but when do you find one it can become just the piece you need to add a little something extra to your wardrobe. I like vests that have a 70’s vibe such as fringe details and intricate leather work. A vest is also the perfect layering piece to add dimension to any outfit.
