The Vintage CHANEL

Have you noticed the flurry of social media posts and IG stories discussing the current state of Chanel Bags? What was once a cornerstone of designer fashion, regardless of your personal style preferences, has now found itself under the scrutiny of public opinion.

Now, don't misunderstand me, I still hold Chanel in high regard, but its value, in my professional estimation, is increasingly tied to its production date. Vintage bags, in my view, hold more worth due to the superior materials likely used in their creation - materials that were perhaps less genetically modified, synthetic, or blended with cheaper alternatives to cut production costs.

Ironically, I use the term "vintage" loosely here, as it traditionally denotes items at least 20 years old, though the exact timeframe can vary. Within the industry, we distinguish antique as fashion over 100 years old, vintage as at least 20 years old but less than 100, and contemporary as styles from the recent past (less than 20 years old) -think fast fashion.

Simply put, vintage refers to clothing, accessories, or styles from past eras that have regained popularity or are valued for their historical significance and craftsmanship. Items from the 1920s to the 1990s might fit this definition, depending on various factors.

However, it's crucial to recognize that the notion of "vintage" is subjective, varying among collectors, historians, and enthusiasts. Some may consider items from the 2000s as vintage as time progresses and those styles diverge further from contemporary fashion.

Personally, as a former enthusiast of Mugler and their innovative direction, I found the H&M collaboration to be a blow to the house's integrity. To elaborate, I recall a style scout from WGSN once stating that luxury should not be affordable; otherwise, it loses its essence. This is why the phrase "affordable luxury" makes me cringe - it often masks the reality of discounted or overpriced goods or services under the guise of accessibility. To put it bluntly, it's akin to the distinction between an escort and a prostitute; both offer similar services, but one is marketed as "affordable," which can be misleading.

Following the Mugler collaboration on May 11, 2023, my perspective on fashion - already wavering before the pandemic - shifted towards a more utilitarian aesthetic, focusing on necessity rather than extravagance. This approach has simplified my life, both in styling clients for specific events and curating my personal wardrobe based on desired emotions rather than merely visual impact. It's a universal truth that when you love what you wear, you exude confidence, and it becomes a part of you. Conversely, if you're not truly sold on your look, encountering someone more "put together" can chip away at your confidence.

Currently, my preferred fashion houses for distinctive yet personalized looks include Pucci (the print), Versace (the woman), and especially Schiaparelli (Theee story). Schiaparelli, in particular, has exceeded expectations appealing to those with a love for modern art and surrealism.

-Tempestt

"Fashion is merely an interpretation of time."

- Virgil Abloh