Vintage Essentials: Currently Enhancing My Life And Wardrobe

Paloma cardigan from Banned, skirt from Vivien of Holloway, shoes from New Look, vintage handbag, underwear by Gossard

1. A perfect 1950s style cardi

Available in a knickerbockerglory of ice-creamy shades, this cardigan is strategically cropped to sit right on your waist for maximum hourglass definition. I wear it sweater girl style in the smallest size I can get away with, buttons sewn up to prevent accidental flashing and traffic accidents.

2. An impressively authentic pencil skirt

Unlike many repro items, there isn’t any stretch in Vivien of Holloway’s signature wiggle skirt. This means it looks like a fabulous vintage original but it also makes walking a challenge and running a crazy pipedream.

3. The most hardworking smalls in my lingerie drawer (and they all have to work pretty hard in the field of heavy lifting)

Like my floral screwdriver, the Retrolution range by Gossard is both functional and beautiful. Need undies that don’t show up under light fabrics and plunging necklines? I recommend their low cut bra in blush. Want the Spanx effect without the bald-cap-for-your-bum aesthetic? Try their waist cincher. Crave a vintage-looking thong? Go for the vintage-looking thong.