From the Archives: 26 Vintage Treasures You Need Now, According to Jenny Walton

Few people know vintage like Jenny Walton—and even fewer wear vintage like Jenny Walton. It’s for this reason the girl about town (Milan, at the moment) has such a following. The key to pulling off her vintage looks (which span several decades) is her styling prowess. Think a vintage brooch with a modern-day Prada cashmere cardigan or a 1950s circle skirt with the latest Gucci slingbacks. But first, where is she getting these pieces? A vintage shopper rarely reveals her sources, but just for Vogue, Walton is sharing the wealth. Each month, Walton will comb through the World Wide Web and share what she feels are the best vintage buys of the moment. These are the vintage treasures you need now, according to Walton.

Finally, an excuse to exercise your right to flair! The holidays are upon us again, and there is no better time of year to take your style to the next level. Think gold, silver, red, plaid, an extra special accessory…all fantastic options to give your look that extra oomph! Anything that might typically be viewed as “too much” is just right this time of year. Vintage is the perfect resource to ensure a unique look, particularly if you style it in a way all your own. My favorite search terms this time of year are “vintage holiday dress” or “vintage party dress.” My go-to designers are Victor Costa and Lillie Rubin for great festive dresses, Lilli Ann for the chicest fur-trimmed coats, and Prada for anything and everything from stunning dresses to the chicest silk-printed PJs.

As always happy (vintage) shopping!

Jenny

1950s Tulle and Lace Party Dress

While there are hundreds online to choose from, this just might be the perfect 1950s tulle and lace party dress. That red velvet ribbon seems to be screaming, Judy Garland in Meet Me in St Louis, which is exactly the aesthetic conjuring one so often hopes for this time of year.

Lillie Rubin One-Shoulder Dress

The original Lillie Rubin boutique opened in 1946 in Miami Beach, Florida, with a second store opening in Palm Beach in 1955. The designer left behind a plethora of perfect party dresses (many well suited for warmer climates and therefor a great option for your California or Florida-based special occasions).

Prada 2022 Midi Length Dress

You can’t go wrong with this golden goose of a Prada dress from the 2022 capsule collection. Yes she’s the quintessential holiday dress, but just imagine her glistening in the sun with a pair of strappy sandals and a chic raffia tote on the coast of some European destination next summer.

Vintage 1950s Velvet Hat and Cherry Brooch

The perfect holiday hat comes in the form of this 1940s/50s black velvet accomplishment. While technically decorated with red cherries, after a few drinks they might just pass for mistletoe and aid in the orchestration of a kiss from that special someone. Bonus, it comes with a matching cherry brooch!

Prada Dress

While not stated on the listing, I can tell from the drape of the bodice that this piece originated from one of my favorite Prada collections, resort 2008. I wore look 1 from this collection on the red carpet of the Venice Film Festival, and let me tell you, it’s a show-stopper! It’s not a bad price for such a highly sought-after piece.

Bernetti New York 1960s Hand-Beaded Two-Piece Gown

Something about a 1960s “celery” silk satin dress tends to hit me at my fashion core. The best part of this Bernetti New York vintage stunner is the removable overcoat that adds just that extra amount of oomph. Style with a great pair of silver kitten heels.

Bill Blass Vintage ’80s Evening Blouse

An incredible one-of-a-kind evening blouse by Bill Blass in a stunning tartan silk taffeta. With its statement-making power, I would pair this blouse with simple brown or black trousers and a chic pair of black velvet flats.

John Galliano Vintage Midi Length Dress

No one makes a dress quite like John Galliano. The perfect classic shape in a stunning shade of rich scarlet. I would pair with simple diamond jewelry and a pair of matching scarlet or black pumps.

Comme des Garçons Vintage Long Dress

This 2003 Comme des Garcons wool tent dress is an incredibly versatile piece. You could wear it layered over a skirt, pants, or by itself. I highly recommend it as a statement layering piece you can reinvent for years to come.

Bentley & Skinner Victorian Garnet and Diamond Pendant

A scene-stealing Victorian garnet and diamond heart shaped pendant/brooch that is absolutely to die for. In true Victorian style, there’s even a compartment for hair in the etched gold closed back setting.

Bill Blass 1970s Gown and Jacket Ensemble

This 1970s Bill Blass ensemble delivers a two-for-the-price-of-one convenience in the form of a smart bow-adorned jacket layered atop a chic black dress. Look to the 1990 film classic, Metropolitan for styling inspiration.

Prada 2022 Midi Length Dress

I’m still thinking of this piece almost three years after its runway debut. The perfect holiday dress in a stunning shade of red and the most beautifully crafted intricate lace floral. Between design and craft, this is a piece that will truly stand the test of time. I love the heels from this collection and would try to hunt down a pair to match.

Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Vintage 1970s Cape

What could be more fitting for a holiday get-together than a dramatic red Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche cape? Perfectly designed to equally show off whatever you choose to pair underneath, this piece is truly 10/10. I would style with a mini dress and a tall boot to let the volume of this incredible cape really shine.

Victor Costa Maxi Dress

Ohhh how long this has sat in my Vestiaire cart! A vintage fur bodice wonder from Victor Costa would make the perfect holiday dress. I’m serious, if you don’t buy this I will (and make you regret it endlessly by posting countless photos coyishly glancing over my mink clad shoulder, while my eyes say, “oh, this old thing?”)

1800 Victorian Antique Garnet Flower Necklace

While I may be partial to garnets as they are my birthstone, I can’t help but love this antique Victorian garnet necklace. The ideal piece to layer casually over a chic sweater or your favorite statement coat.

Gianfranco Ferré Silk Blouse

If a dress isn’t your fancy, why not try a stunning vintage Gianfranco Ferré masterpiece of a sheer (in all the right places) tuxedo shirt? Would be wonderful paired with a black tuxedo pant and pumps —don’t forget a shockingly beautiful pair of diamond earrings!

Suzy Perette Vintage 1950s Dress

Suzy Perette perfection! My heart be still! This was a tough one to include, because…how could a dress possibly be more perfect? This 1950s rose print—while not exclusively holiday leaning, would be stunning for simply any occasion. For styling inspiration look to vintage photos of Audrey Hepburn in her chic little ballet flats.

Prada Silk Feather Cuff Robe Jacket

While many a brand has tried its hand at chic boudoir wear, few execute it quite like Prada. I’m particularly a fan of their chic feather-trimmed, geometric printed pieces which seem to wonderfully combine elements of the traditionally feminine and masculine. Pair with a headpiece or fabulous earring and share with the world! Just think of the time you’ll save slipping into bed at the end of a night out. An equally great printed Prada pajama set here.

Stemware Cocktail Glasses

While we could talk about dressing ourselves all day, what about the equally important holiday dressing of our homes? Don’t they deserve a little festive pick me up, too? You can find an endless amount of vintage stemware online—Etsy is particularly good for this.

Adolfo Vintage Fascinators Hat

Another incredible way to make an impression among “the folks.” A hat like this proclaims, “Why, yes I moved to New York and I am killing it, thank you very much.” When it comes to vintage hats, I always prefer Adolfo, or Saks Fifth Ave, when available.

Victor Costa Vintage ’80s Party Dress

Spending the holidays somewhere tropical? Well then this is just what your suitcase is missing. A stunning dress from Victor Costa, king of vintage dresses with just the right amount of volume. The only thing missing is a flower strategically placed behind your ear, à la Marc Jacobs Spring 2011.

Pendleton Vintage 1970s Two-Piece Suit

For those of us spending the Holidays in a cooler climate, you can’t go wrong with a vintage Pendleton set. This 1970s two-piece tartan skirt set is ideal for a festive get-together, but if you prefer pants, a great set is available here.

Issey Miyake Vintage Casual Jacket

Oh how I hope and pray that this sends you down a spiral for vintage Issey Miyake jackets. If not I’ll have truly failed at my job. Oops, what’s this, a breadcrumb? I hope you find yourself significantly distracted for at least the next hour!

Saint Laurent Rooster Feathers Collar

Possibly the strangest thing I’ve ever linked. A vintage Yves Saint Laurent shawl made of rooster feathers, that’s right rooster. Sound the alarm! Perfect way to add a bit of flair to a simple little black dress.

Jr. Flair by Sportlane Vintage 1950s Brocade Cocktail Dress

At just over $100, a great price on this vintage 1950s Blue & Gold Metallic Floral Brocade Cocktail Dress. As far as vintage search terms go,“cocktail dress” is a wonderful gateway to beautiful mid-century finds.

Maggy Boutique Vintage ’80s Party Dress

A fully ruched taffeta vintage 1980s dress is just about as good as it gets. For the styling of anything even remotely ’80s or ’90s, I always turn to the film Metropolitan for styling inspiration (think a single strand of pearls, pumps, and a pulled-back coiffure).

When I first moved to New York in 2008, the coolest place to be after school was hanging out in the West Village, popping from one Marc Jacobs boutique to the next. My friends and I bought Marc Jacobs branded condoms and “stinky rat” keychains on our student budgets while dreaming of the designer clothes we couldn’t afford but studied diligently at school. It’s hard to imagine New York without Marc Jacobs, and this year marks 40 years of the designer’s namesake brand, launched just after graduating Parsons in 1984. To celebrate Jacobs’s incredible design legacy, this month I’ll be highlighting 26 fantastic vintage and second-hand pieces by my favorite New York designer.

Marc Jacobs Gown

A stunning yellow Marc Jacobs Mustard gown in a luscious silk velvet with knot detailing at the center. An old Hollywood feel makes this dress a timeless staple. I would style her with a baby blue opera glove and pearls and why the hell not, a funny hat.

Marc Jacobs Gilda Bag

A fantastic price on this Marc Jacobs ‘Gilda’ Fur and Sequins flap bag from the fall 2010 collection. I still remember seeing this bag brand spanking new on the floor of Saks in 2010 when I was a young fashion design student. It was rightfully padlocked to its display case and I remember swooning over it endlessly and here she is again! Fashion fate perhaps? Would look great with a simple white tee and jeans or dressed to the nines with a little grey skirt suit and dark boots.

Stephen Jones Padded Headband

From a season packed to the fuzzy brim with incredible headwear inspiration, comes this rare Marc Jacobs, Stephen Jones fall 2008 light green wool padded headband. This is a piece that says, “I have my style, and I couldn’t care less what you think about it!”

Marc Jacobs Striped Skirt

This skirt makes up half of look 7 from the iconically striped and Edie Sedgwick-inspired spring 2013 collection (your only outstanding job will be to reunite it with its equally adorable matching jacket, as I’ve already found a great pair of striped shoes from this collection below).

Louis Vuitton Rosebud Embellished Dress

This is a difficult one to share. An incredibly tempting and rare Marc Jacobs for Louis Vuitton spring 2007 Runway dress (look 45 to be exact!) This pink rosebud embellished dress will have people stopping you in the street. Wear it layered over a white tank and ruffles as seen on the runway or dare to go bare!

Louis Vuitton Crop Jacket

A fantastically designed Louis Vuitton jacket in beige cotton ramie with silver buttons and a striking black collar. This cropped jacket combines elements from every iteration of what a sensible jacket could be. Wear it effectively with a pair of black slacks or voluminous skirt.

Stephen Sprouse Graffiti Pop Mini Dress

Marc Jacobs first collaborated with artist Stephen Sprouse on his spring 2001 collection (almost 25 years ago!) This neon green graffiti pop rose mini dress, marries everything that was great about Jacobs’ 16-year collaboration with Lous Vuitton. This unique dress is much less ubiquitous than the graffiti-printed bags which have never seemed to wane in popularity.

Marc Jacobs Glitter Pumps

A wonderfully classic glitter pump capable of making Cinderella herself jealous. The pointed toe would look very smart paired with a grey wool circle skirt and your favorite Marc Jacobs Louis Vuitton era Speedy.

Marc Jacobs Bow Blouse

I love this stunning flocked swiss dot Marc Jacobs blouse, topped with a perfectly dramatic pussy bow. Consider pairing over your favorite pair of high-waisted jeans and a black pointed flat. Depending on your comfort level I would layer with a black bra or camisole.

Perry Ellis Striped Strapless Dress

An incredible Perry Ellis by Marc Jacobs striped strapless dress. The best part of this iconic piece has to be the pom-pom trim paired with that perfect stripe. I would keep the accessories classic with a black pump and clutch.

Marc Jacobs Mary Janes

The listing describes these Marc Jacobs Mary Janes as “witchiepoo” and I couldn’t agree more. Mary Jane silhouette with wonderfully exaggerated pointy toes. From the same collection as the striped skirt above (spring 2013) these are a classic Marc Jacobs piece that although eccentric, will never go out of style.

Perry Ellis Checkered Silk Skirt

A graphically minimal and enticing Perry Ellis by Marc Jacobs black and red checkered skirt with matching striped shawl from the Fall Winter 1989/90 collection. Do yourself a favor and take a look at the listing photography for some serious shawl styling inspiration.

Marc Jacobs Striped Midi Dress

At only $79 this vintage Marc Jacobs Striped dress is a classic stunner. The subtle A-line shape and complimentary tones make this piece incredibly timeless. For styling think Audrey Hepburn or Jackie O.

Marc Jacobs Gem Sandal Heels

The iconic gem-clad Marc Jacobs shoes! These have always been a personal favorite of mine, so much so that I even included a matching bag below. It would be perfectly balanced with a voluminous cropped pant or mini dress.

Marc Jacobs Strapless Dress

A stunning strapless lace dress by Marc Jacobs with strategically placed pockets to give your hips that extra oomph! Consider wearing it with minimal makeup and accessories to give the dress (and you!) that extra chance to shine.

Marc Jacobs Sequined Slip Dress

Although it comes with quite a hefty price tag, this Marc Jacobs spring 2008 deconstructed sequined slip dress 100% needed to be included. Hands down one of if not my absolute favorite Marc Jacobs collection. The entire show was a triumph in trompe-l’oeil.

Marc Jacobs Trompe-L’oeil Dress

The iconic look #21 from Marc Jacobs Fall Winter 2001 collection, famously worn by Winona Ryder to court after shoplifting from Saks Fifth Avenue on Wilshire Boulevard. An important part of early 2000s pop/fashion culture.

Marc Jacobs Bow Dress

I’ve always had a sweet spot for this 1960s-inspired spring 2008 Marc by Marc Jacobs dress—a red version that was famously worn by Blair Waldorf in Gossip Girl is available here.

Marc Jacobs Polka Dot Sweater

Sometimes you just want to throw on a terry pullover and call it a day. I have to imagine this Marc Jacobs version has a unique ability to elevate the most uninspiring of afternoons. The entire F/W 2011 runway collection is an uplifting affair well worth a second study.

Marc Jacobs Sketchbook Happy Face Sweater

Ah, the things you can find on Ebay! An incredibly rare and museum-worthy Marc Jacobs Sketchbook happy face sweater from 1985 (as the listing states, the yellow version is in the permanent collection of the Met Museum).

Louis Vuitton Floral Beaded Necklace

A potentially incredibly niche find, this Louis Vuitton floral bead necklace from spring 2007 is the sort of rare runway accessory that fashion fanatic dreams are made of. The styling on this collection was a 10/10 and I’d be so tempted to pair the baubles with flowers in my hair and a scarf around my neck à la Audrey Hepburn as Eliza Doolittle.

Marc Jacobs Backwards Upside Down Heels

I love my Marc Jacobs spring 2008 Backwards Upside Down heels, but I’ve never seen this stunning pink version before. Fashion as a conversation starter is a wonderful way to navigate the world of dressing up and these shoes are simply top-tier.

Marc Jacobs Satchel

With a little TLC this bag could easily be brought back to its former glory. Originally from spring 2007, this is a bag I have often dreamt about. Look to its original collection for incredible styling ideas, such as a white button-up tucked into low-waisted pleated khakis.

Marc Jacobs mid-length dress

The perfect little wool pink dress. Originally from fall 2020 (look #12), this Marc Jacobs collection was chock-full of fresh revivals on classic 1960s ideas. I would pair it with a kitten heel and a bandana over my hair, as seen on the runway.

Marc Jacobs Coat

This Marc Jacobs wool coat has just the right amount of shape to it with those beautifully set in shoulders and ever so slightly nipped-in waist. A classic if there ever was one and in that perfect warm grey tone.

Louis Vuitton Monogram Alma Bag

While I’m typically more passionate about clothes than archival bags, this 2008 Louis Vuitton Monogram Alma GM has a soft spot in my heart with that tantalizing combination of rich patent leather and deep shade of bordeaux.