vintage couture
New York, London, Paris, everybody talk about...
vintage couture WORDS Natasha Taghavi
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hat does the word ‘vintage’ conjure up in your mind? Let me guess; images of tightly packed jumble style shops in the depths of trendy East London? Trawling through endless rails in the hope of finding something that looks less Nora Batty and more Alexa Chung? Think again. While we can all appreciate a battered pair of converse boots or an oversized 80s leather, there’s nothing quite like the glamour of sumptuous designer fabrics and statement handbags – although it needn’t require a trip to the Kings road. If, like me, your senses are stirred by something with a little history, and that musty-yet-satisfying smell of a bygone era, vintage couture is the only way to go. après has searched high and even higher to bring you the crème de la crème of boutiques in New York, London and Paris. >>
Find, London A sleek boutique tucked away in Battersea Park, Find is quite simply an experience. Vintage Kartell and Liberty furnishings will make you feel as though you’ve hopped in the Dolorean and travelled back in time from the moment you walk in. If you don’t know where to start, don’t worry – they offer a brilliant styling service that will help you put the perfect outfit together. This place is called Find for a reason. With Lanvin silks, Alexander McQueen boots and Balenciaga sunglasses – not to mention a feast of couture designs from Hermes, Herve Leger, Fendi, YSL and Mulberry – if you don’t find something you want, we’ll eat our hats. www.findoflondon.com
après • Spring/Summer 2012 / 87
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One of a Kind, London Located on the Portobello road in Notting Hill, One of a Kind is a temple of vintage fashion. Breathtaking in decor and oozing timeless glamour, it boasts an eye-watering collection of couture treats, guaranteed to have you oohing and aahing – and reaching for the credit card. From 1920s python skin Chanel bags and Victorian bodices to a seemingly endless stock of exquisite furs, it’s easy to see why this Aladdin’s cave of goodies is a favourite amongst the celebrity elite. Madonna, Kate Moss, Thandie Newton, Rihanna and even Salman Rushdie have all shopped here. If it’s good enough for Madge and Kate... www.1kind.co.uk
New York Vintage, New York It’s not often that a boutique sets your heart racing, but this stunning New York emporium in the heart of Chelsea is an exception. With interiors to die for and perfectly arranged rows of vintage couture that read like a bible of iconic designers, it’s no surprise that the shop is a stomping ground for Hollywood celebrities and film production companies alike. Their ever expanding collection of gorgeous pieces features every credible name. Look out for the cornucopia of Chanel and YSL couture jewellery as well as dazzling silk John Desses gowns. Suffice to say, you won’t be leaving empty handed. www.newyorkvintage.com
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Didier Ludot, Paris Situated in the beautiful Jardin du Palais Royal, Didier Ludot’s three boutiques are within walking distance of each other, so you can skip from one to the next in excitement. Collecting couture gowns since the 1970s, his collections have often been exhibited and celebrated, giving him iconic status within the fashion world. With pieces ranging from 1920s to 1980s, you’ll find yourself in a welcome sea of Givenchy, Balmain and Manolo Blahnik. The perfect place to find a tweed Chanel jacket or Lanvin blouse, dresses by Courreges and YSL, or a black Dior gown, this Parisian delight is designer vintage at its very best. www.didierludot.fr
vintage couture WORDS Natasha Taghavi
w
hat does the word ‘vintage’ conjure up in your mind? Let me guess; images of tightly packed jumble style shops in the depths of trendy East London? Trawling through endless rails in the hope of finding something that looks less Nora Batty and more Alexa Chung? Think again. While we can all appreciate a battered pair of converse boots or an oversized 80s leather, there’s nothing quite like the glamour of sumptuous designer fabrics and statement handbags – although it needn’t require a trip to the Kings road. If, like me, your senses are stirred by something with a little history, and that musty-yet-satisfying smell of a bygone era, vintage couture is the only way to go. après has searched high and even higher to bring you the crème de la crème of boutiques in New York, London and Paris. >>
Find, London A sleek boutique tucked away in Battersea Park, Find is quite simply an experience. Vintage Kartell and Liberty furnishings will make you feel as though you’ve hopped in the Dolorean and travelled back in time from the moment you walk in. If you don’t know where to start, don’t worry – they offer a brilliant styling service that will help you put the perfect outfit together. This place is called Find for a reason. With Lanvin silks, Alexander McQueen boots and Balenciaga sunglasses – not to mention a feast of couture designs from Hermes, Herve Leger, Fendi, YSL and Mulberry – if you don’t find something you want, we’ll eat our hats. www.findoflondon.com
après • Spring/Summer 2012 / 87
running head
One of a Kind, London Located on the Portobello road in Notting Hill, One of a Kind is a temple of vintage fashion. Breathtaking in decor and oozing timeless glamour, it boasts an eye-watering collection of couture treats, guaranteed to have you oohing and aahing – and reaching for the credit card. From 1920s python skin Chanel bags and Victorian bodices to a seemingly endless stock of exquisite furs, it’s easy to see why this Aladdin’s cave of goodies is a favourite amongst the celebrity elite. Madonna, Kate Moss, Thandie Newton, Rihanna and even Salman Rushdie have all shopped here. If it’s good enough for Madge and Kate... www.1kind.co.uk
New York Vintage, New York It’s not often that a boutique sets your heart racing, but this stunning New York emporium in the heart of Chelsea is an exception. With interiors to die for and perfectly arranged rows of vintage couture that read like a bible of iconic designers, it’s no surprise that the shop is a stomping ground for Hollywood celebrities and film production companies alike. Their ever expanding collection of gorgeous pieces features every credible name. Look out for the cornucopia of Chanel and YSL couture jewellery as well as dazzling silk John Desses gowns. Suffice to say, you won’t be leaving empty handed. www.newyorkvintage.com
88
Didier Ludot, Paris Situated in the beautiful Jardin du Palais Royal, Didier Ludot’s three boutiques are within walking distance of each other, so you can skip from one to the next in excitement. Collecting couture gowns since the 1970s, his collections have often been exhibited and celebrated, giving him iconic status within the fashion world. With pieces ranging from 1920s to 1980s, you’ll find yourself in a welcome sea of Givenchy, Balmain and Manolo Blahnik. The perfect place to find a tweed Chanel jacket or Lanvin blouse, dresses by Courreges and YSL, or a black Dior gown, this Parisian delight is designer vintage at its very best. www.didierludot.fr
