Value vintage

Posted by Anita Brook at 13:03 on 5 May 2010

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Despite the rain, I had a fantastic bank holiday, which started a day early at the opening of the fabulous House of Avalon in York. This 1940s vintage heaven - which even included a retro hairdresser and cups of tea at old school prices, just 20p - re-ignited my passion for days-gone-by fashion. As the temperature dropped and the heavens remained open for most of the weekend, I curled up on the sofa with a glass of red and scoured the net for bargains to keep you looking chic on the cheap.

Claiming to have the best selection of vintage and retro clothes, Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair offers a massive range of clothes to suit all tastes. The events, held across the UK, have hundreds of stalls as well as drinking areas and music, so you can socialise while you shop.

For a real bargain, The Vintage Kilo Sale is a new concept in second-hand sales. Rather than paying per item, you pay per kilo - just £15. At events held around the country, buyers can pick and mix clothing from all different eras which are charged by the weight. If you do want to pay for individual pieces, dresses are only £8 and blouses just £5. Sign up to their mailing list to find out about events in your area.

Feeling really adventurous? Why not try and re-create the clothes of your favourite decade by making them yourself. There are loads of dressmaking patterns online. The Vintage Fabric Market sells a range of patterns and fab fabric to match.
 
If you prefer to see your purchases in the flesh, there are still some gems to be had in certain charity shops. Many have cottoned on to the fact that old can be cool and now have vintage sections. Certain Marie Curies (of Mary Portas fame) stock retro clothing, visit the website to find your nearest. TRAID (Textile Recycling Aid and International Development) offers second-hand togs with a difference - not only are many of their clothes vintage, but some are also customised by up-and-coming designers, providing truly one-off pieces. There are TRAID shops in London and Brighton.

Going retro is not only on trend (think Kate Moss, Alex Chung and Fearne Cotton) but it's effectively recycling, so you'll be looking good and doing your bit for the environment.

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