Thrift store finds aren’t just for… well… the thrifty anymore. Vintage fashion has become so hot, even at the most prestigious events – from film premieres to the Oscars – recycled looks are ruling the red carpet!
While it’s a treasure to find those rare, one-of-a-kind finds, it requires some real digging and a bit of know-how. So ET Canada‘s in-house fashion expert Maggie Bill, who’s been a collector of couture long before it was trendy, offers some smart advice to make those second-hand gems, truly stunning.
Some of the most beautiful celebrity looks take a bit of luck, because as Maggie reveals, the classic gowns are tailored for someone else: “There was no stretch at all, and many of the movie stars who attended award shows had to be sewn right into their dresses.”
Because some outfits can’t be refitted even by the best seamstresses, her number one tip is to get a good fit from the start. “Always try them on because [a] size 6 now, would be like [a] size 16 in the ’60s,” she says. The size difference, might not be quite that extreme, but like she says: “We live in a world of vanity sizing that’s not realistic.”
Another valuable tip Maggie offers, to make your finds last is to wear a buffer. She says, “Whenever I wear vintage pieces, I always wear something underneath; cleaning is bad for clothes.”
Take a look at some of the best vintage red carpet looks and get more of Maggie’s tips in the video below!
