by Jay Taylor

Vintage has become the go-to fashion category to find unique and valuable collectables. Yet, before Vintage became 'popular', it seemed an untouchable area, only the prestige or elite. For years, Vintage has been modeled by celebrities and often portrayed as inaccessible and very expensive, however, times have changed. Now, the term 'vintage' is loosely described and often the context, quality or origin is disregarding; so what is the true meaning of vintage?

The Rise of Preloved and Vintage Clothing 

The word 'Vintage' means 'being of an earlier time'. Vintage fashion is often referred to as clothing from a previous time, at least 20 years ago. Over the years fast-fashion brands have replicated typical Vintage styles from the 1920s – 1990s, such as flowy mini-skirts from the 60s or floral print dresses from the early 60s. Yet, vintage inspired clothing simply isn’t vintage. 

Before the fast-fashion boom in the late 90s, fashion was produced on a much smaller scale, using less energy-intense manufacturing and often hand-made. True craftsmanship was applied, and the finest materials were used. The most valued and highly respected Vintage was produced by classic designers as these brands carried the reputation of top-quality and value. Today, clothing (particularly fast-fashion) is made of cheaper quality, causing people to purchase clothing more often, which is not good for the environment. 

Vintage is more than just preloved clothing; it's the quality, value and timeless styles. Vintage has many layers and gives us a fair insight into our history. True, vintage lasts through generations as treasured attributes to our wardrobe. 

Our Love for Vintage 

Vintage is evidence that quality lasts through generations. Vintage is loved by many, but what are the key benefits of purchasing vintage clothing?

Better Quality, Less Spend: Firstly, Vintage is made to last. The majority of vintage pieces are often made with low-impact production and with the finest materials proven to be resilient after years of usage. Although Vintage can be expensive, the quality deserves the price. High-fashion vintage pieces are often made with non-synthetic materials and hand-crafted to perfection, unlike fast fashion. When you purchase Vintage, you can almost guarantee robust craftsmanship that will withstand the test of time.

Classic, Creative and Courageous: Vintage is a statement. By wearing older and classic styles gives you an edge over the current fashion trend. Today the likelihood of purchasing something that thousands of people will wear is highly likely. Previously, fashion pieces were made in smaller batches therefore, fashion styles were limited and highly valued, so wearing Vintage is one way to express your individualism and stand out.

Shop with Meaning: Meaningful purchasing is one way to be cost-effective and environmentally conscious. Vintage travels through time collecting stories waiting to be told. Unlike fast-fashion some Vintage garments may have an exciting previous life. When you begin to purchase fashion garments that mean something to you, consequently, you will reduce the number of clothes you buy. Whether a meaningful purchase is a fashion statement or an item with a story, it is the best way to keep your budget low while contributing to slow fashion. To start your meaningful shopping journey, create a capsule wardrobe made from vintage items.

Less Clothes Going to Landfill: Most importantly, supporting and wearing Vintage prevents clothing from going to landfill. When you purchase preloved items, mainly vintage, you're championing the slow fashion movement. Slowing down production, slowing down the number of unsustainable practices used on garments and also the energy used to create clothes. The world now consumes about 80 billion new pieces of clothing every year, so why do we need more clothes? Vintage is one way to be fashionable while contributing to the slow fashion movement.

Supporting Women of Color in Vintage: Over the years, it has been perceived that rich and white individuals only accumulate Vintage. The media has portrayed classic vintage items worn by rich famous stars in Hollywood. Therefore, classic pieces created by Chanel, Gucci, Prada seemed untouchable and almost out of sight for many groups in society, dismissing many women and men of color have also worn and collected unique vintage. The media has failed to highlight this until recently.

With the rise of diversity in luxury and high-fashion vintage, the media is beginning to pay homage to classic stars such as Billie Holiday, Nina Simone and Dorothy Dandridge, making it apparent that vintage fashion is from all races, backgrounds and communities. 

In recent years, women of color have openly shared their love for Vintage and unique collectables on their platforms. The recent change has created a diverse community of vintage lovers who use the internet to create an empire built on Vintage and sustainability.

Why Shop BMUSE?: BMUSE founded by a woman of color celebrates classic Vintage and sustainability. Brenda, the owner of BMUSE, proudly states that she is a one-woman run business that has never lessened her values or beliefs on her journey to success. By incorporating her passion for fashion and sustainability, Brenda has built a successful online store selling high-fashion vintage pieces, from Yves Saint Laurent to Prada.

BMUSE's ethos is about advocating for conscious style through thoughtfully curated collections. The philosophy behind BMUSE has always been focused on style and sustainability as a mind-set and not just a choice of fashion. The business aims to inspire fashionistas and vintage lovers to experience circular fashion without compromising on aesthetics.

Ultimately, BMUSE is making vintage accessible and current for fashion lovers to incorporate vintage into their everyday style. Brenda recognizes that Vintage was once considered 'special pieces for special occasions' however celebrates that this concept has shifted; Vintage can be worn by anyone at any time. To find out more about the current collection visit shopbmuse.com

Essentially vintage fashion is a saga of individual stories from different backgrounds gathered into timeless garments to be passed onto future generations. 

 Vintage is where sustainability and fashion stand side by side to fight the testament of time; so if you have not already explored the depths of Vintage, try something different and shop independent stores to support diversity in Vintage.