Fashion / Style

Something borrowed: our pick of the best online vintage stores

There’s nothing quite like trawling through a vintage store, with its nostalgic interiors and racks overflowing with timeless treasures. Here we round up the best ateliers for those elusive pieces, all without having to leave your desk.

Vestiaire Collective

Paris-based Vestiaire Collective recently landed on our shores and brought with it a trove of pre-loved goods. Sourced from locations across the world, including Japan, Spain and even Greece, there is no limit to what you’ll discover (hello Paco Rabanne sequinned dress). Best of all, every item is authenticated by a team of experts so you know you’re getting the real deal. Keep an eye out for their celebrity collaborations where you can and shop luxury wardrobes at a fraction of the designer cost.

The RealReal

The team at The RealReal are all about finding that unique, one-of-a-kind item to complete your outfit. With coveted vintage pieces from major luxury brands, each is put through a precise certification process overseen by a team of over 100 experts, including authenticators, gemologists and horologists. The business has also developed a ‘sustainability calculator’ which determines for each item of women’s apparel how much is saved in water and driving miles by buying the item second-hand rather than new. Count us in.

Farfetch Vintage

 Whether it’s an 80s YSL dress from Italy or a 9s Chanel jumpsuit from France, Farfetch sources the best vintage items from around the world and places them at your fingertips with their Pre-Owned edit. Each piece is photographed in detail and styled in situ so you can envision exactly how you’re going to look come Saturday night (well, sort of). Farfetch also offers Afterpay if you’re feeling the pre-Christmas pinch but still want to make an entrance at your office party. Filter by style, designer and budget and be prepared to uncover some genuine treasures.

ASOS Marketplace

If you’re new to the vintage market and not entirely sure where to start, ASOS Marketplace has a vintage section offering everything from street-style tracksuits to beaded evening dresses and retro tees. Sourcing the best of local boutiques and independent labels, Marketplace has also recently added charity stores like Oxfam and Barnados to the mix, with all proceeds from purchases going directly back to the organisation. The site also allows you to shop by era so you can finally find that 70’s inspired maxi dress for your summer outings.

What Goes Around Comes Around

Although vintage is currently experiencing a renaissance, the team at What Goes Around Comes Around have seen it all. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, their marketplace has attracted celebrities, tastemakers, and vintage connoisseurs looking for the most desirable and rare items. Seeking out the best products internationally, each listing on their website is meticulously evaluated three times to guarantee authenticity and peace of mind. From cult classics to timeless icons, WGACA has a curation of luxury styles and accessories designed to be the talking point of your next outfit.