2000s

By the end of the 90’s there were many more emerging designers vying to take the place of the great and established names of the past century. Of note, post-millennium, are Alexander McQueen, Roland Mouret, Stella McCartney, Garath Pugh, Christopher Kane, Mary Katrantzou, Raf Simons, Phoebe Philo, and Alice Temperley. In addition to their own labels, these and other established designers forge new directions and collections for enduring brands like Chanel, Gucci, Dior, Givenchy, Chloe, Louis Vuitton and Cacharel.

In fashion terms, vintage is generally regarded as older than 20 years. In the early part of the decade, we see prints, prettiness and dresses, boho-chic and the peasant look. The rise of the Internet rapidly changes the way we search for and source clothes, inspiring new looks and honing our individual styles. The line between couture and ready-to-wear is blurred, with prices for some boutique garments sold as ‘couture’ at exorbitant prices, making buying vintage something of a bargain as well as a sound investment.  Casually mixing new and vintage pieces is not only intelligent dressing but truly stylish.