It's all about vintage.

The catwalks for the spring / summer 2009 collections reflected the current financial crisis, in that designers focused on strong pieces typical of their own particular brand. The clothes are as opulent as ever, but trends are gone. What's 'in' right now are timeless pieces that will remain glamorous for years to come. That doesn't mean that designer fashion has become any less expensive, but it has become more tempting. Customers are spoilt for choice as designers strive to create pieces that pass the seasonal sell-by date and are simply irresistable. The idea is that we should stop spending money on endless seasonal items and instead invest in a piece of luxury that will last forever.

This all makes a lot of sense. However, the fact remains that most of us still don't quite have the budget for that dream piece of McQueen. That's where vintage comes in: stunning clothes, whose age proves their longevity, and you're guaranteed to find a bargain. Certain outlets of Topshop, most notably the flagship store in Oxford Circus, sell beautiful vintage party pieces. I picked up this impeccably detailed jacket for £50:

Image Source: Izzen

Meanwhile, Beyond Retro sells just about anything vintage - daytime and evening wear, countless leather jackets, shoes, accessories, etc. The only store locations are in London and Stockholm, so plan a fashion trip if you're not a resident of either. I'm loving the large sequins on this skirt, £22, which is reminiscent of Christopher Kane's autumn / winter 2008 collection:

Image Source: Beyond Retro



Image Source: Beyond Retro