Welcome to a fashion-forward journey where sustainable choices meet haute couture. In 2024, the fashion landscape is evolving, and embracing secondhand designer pieces is not just a trend but a lifestyle choice. In this blog post, we'll explore why incorporating pre-loved designer items into your wardrobe is the key to elevating your style.
Sports brands like Nike, Adidas and Puma are fashion staples and have some absolute gems in their archive. We don't just stock sportswear, we also supply high street brands, designer, workwear, streetwear and high-end fashion.
We've been selling pre-loved second hand designer clothes for 12+ years and supply 1000s of items each month
1. Sustainable Fashion Revolution
Join the movement towards a more sustainable future by choosing second-hand designer pieces. Discover how each purchase contributes to reducing fashion waste and the environmental impact of the industry.
2. Budget-Friendly Elegance
Explore how investing in second-hand designer items allows you to adorn yourself with timeless elegance without breaking the bank. Uncover the secret to achieving a luxurious look at a fraction of the cost.
3. Unique Finds for Individuality
Dive into the treasure trove of unique and one-of-a-kind pieces waiting to be discovered in the realm of second-hand designer fashion. Elevate your personal style by adding exclusive items that set you apart from the mainstream.
4. Vintage Charm in Modern Times
Discover the allure of vintage designer pieces that transcend time. Explore how incorporating these timeless classics into your wardrobe adds a touch of nostalgia and sophistication to your contemporary style.
5. Ethical Choices
Explore the ethical aspects of choosing second-hand designer pieces and how making conscious fashion decisions enhances your overall style. Learn about the positive impact on both local and global communities.
6. Supporting Circular Fashion
Delve into the concept of circular fashion and understand how embracing second-hand designer pieces contributes to a more sustainable and circular economy within the fashion industry.
7. Reducing Your Fashion Carbon Footprint
Learn about the environmental benefits of reducing your fashion carbon footprint by opting for pre-loved designer items. Uncover ways to minimize your impact on the planet while still staying fashion-forward.
8. Curating a Timeless Wardrobe
Explore the art of curating a wardrobe filled with pieces that stand the test of time. Understand how second-hand designer items can become timeless staples in your collection, ensuring longevity in both style and quality.
9. Fashion with a Story
Discover the stories behind each second-hand designer piece and how incorporating these narratives into your style adds depth and character to your fashion choices.
10. Future-Forward Fashion Choices
Wrap up your journey by understanding how embracing second-hand designer pieces aligns with the future of fashion. Explore the evolving trends and the role of sustainable choices in shaping the industry's landscape.
Are you interested in making some extra money, but not sure how to go about it? Making money on Depop could be the answer you're looking for! Whether you have a few items that no longer spark joy or you're a fashion enthusiast looking to turn your passion into profit, Depop provides a simple and fun way to sell your clothes online.
So, how do you get started on Depop? It's easy! First, download the app, which is free to install, and set up your account. From there, you can create your own online shop in just a few clicks. This is where you can really showcase your personality and style. Start by writing a catchy description for your shop and upload a great primary image to attract potential buyers.
Once you've listed your item, it's available for purchase, and you could start making sales right away. You'll receive notifications when an item sells, and you'll be able to view all sales details and payment receipts in the app and through email. Payment is processed through PayPal or Depop Payments, depending on the buyer's preference, and Depop takes only 10% of the total transaction value.
What can you sell on Depop? Almost anything that's not on the prohibited and restricted items list. From vintage finds to contemporary pieces, you can sell a wide range of items to suit different tastes and styles. The more variety you offer, the better your chances of making a sale.
To increase your chances of selling, make sure you take good photos of the items you're selling. You don't need a professional camera; a smartphone will do. Use a clean background and good lighting to make your items stand out. When writing your item description, be sure to include brand, size, fabric type, and condition. If there are any defects, be honest and describe them clearly. Don't forget to add relevant hashtags to make it easier for buyers to find your items.
Depop is a great way to make money without spending any money upfront. You can list your items for free on the platform, regardless of the number of items you want to sell. It's an easy and convenient way to earn extra income and declutter your wardrobe. By selling your unused items, you'll be giving them a new life and freeing up some storage space. You can even use the extra income to buy secondhand items on our site.
Research social media and influencers to see what's trendy
Take great photos with a clean background and good lighting
Write a short description with important details and relevant hashtags
Price your item based on its condition
Provide excellent customer service to receive positive feedback
Did you know you can purchase wholesale clothing direct from Messina? We offer virtual and in-person picking with incredibly competitive prices. To find out more click the link MESSINA HEMBRY WHOLESALE
When we think about old-school vintage Nike clothing the first thoughts are surely the iconic trainers they have made over the years from the Moon shoes, the Waffle, The Cortez and all the way up to and including the Air Jordan's. But what about the clothing that went with the legendary sneakers that have graces our sports shops and fashion magazines since the 70’s.
You would be forgiven for not being so au fait with Nike Inc's apparel ranges from down the decades but as with the sporty footwear, Nike has created some trendy classics that are now part of any vintage clothes collectors’ wardrobe and look to becoming as iconic and well known as any of their creations.
Whilst the sportswear brands that lead the field in the fashion world of 1980’s casual culture were more collectable at the time. Such as Lacoste, Fila, Sergio Tacchini, Ellesse and the ever popular Fred Perry. The unmistakable swoosh tick of the Nike logo was ever present and has now earnt its proverbial stripes in the world of seriously collectible vintage sportswear and is back on trend.
That said, the idea of vintage is that you create your own style so buy what you like and what suits you and make what you are wearing stand out. This could be your favourite retro Nike tracksuit, or jackets, hoodies, or t-shirts.
Origins Of Nike
Nike, one of the world's largest and most recognizable sportswear brands, has a fascinating origin story rooted in inspiration and innovation. It all began in the year 1964 when two individuals, Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, came together with a shared passion for athletics. Drawing inspiration from the Greek goddess of victory, Nike was aptly named to encompass the competitive spirit that fuels athletes around the globe.
Nike Apparel From the 70's, 80's and 90's
One of the most iconic eras in Nike's history is the 70's, 80's, and 90's. During this time, Nike was catapulted into mainstream popularity and became a staple in the world of athletic apparel. The brand's extensive collection of clothing from this time period showcased a unique blend of style and functionality, which is why it makes ideal vintage streetwear now.
In the 70's, Nike introduced innovative designs that revolutionized the industry. The iconic Nike Windrunner, with its colourful panels and lightweight construction, was a popular choice among athletes and fashionable individuals alike. Still the most sought-after item in the list of vintage Nike apparel must haves.
Finding an old school Portland Timbers Football shirt from the 1975-1982 era is the mecca for soccer fans as they were the first team to wear a Nike logo on their kits.
Moving into the 80's, Nike further solidified its position as a leader in athletic apparel. The introduction of the Nike Air Max sneakers brought a new level of comfort and style to the market. Alongside the shoes, Nike released a wide range of clothing, including tracksuits, shorts, and leggings, featuring vibrant colours and distinctive patterns.
The sponsorship of tennis legends like Ille Nastase and Andre Agassi brought the classic polo shirt to the masses and with the added bonus of the technology Nike were using makes them a fantastic collectors piece that stands up to any Fila or Tacchini tennis wear from that era.
In the 90's, Nike continued to innovate and push boundaries in fashion and sportswear. The Air Jordan line, created in collaboration with basketball legend Michael Jordan, became a cultural phenomenon. This partnership propelled Nike's influence beyond the athletic realm, making their clothing a symbol of street style and urban culture.
Nike were producing simple, yet iconic sweatshirts in the 90s that would have the name or iconic swoosh logo emblazoned in large letters across the front that to this day is being copied by so many other fashion and streetwear brands.
Most Popular Items of Vintage Nike Clothing
The obvious Windbreaker is the top choice for any collector but who can forget the 90’s polo shirts with clashing collar and the two thin stripes on the sleeve. The sweatshirts that are now part of their ever-expanding retro ranges and if you can lay your hands on an original Air Jordan t-shirt from the time he was at The Chicago Bulls you definitely have a design that screams 1990’s.
Retro Rerelease of Classic Nike Clothing
Nike has gained a reputation for reintroducing classic designs from their archives, catering to the nostalgic cravings of sneakerheads and fashion enthusiasts alike. These retro rereleases of classic Nike clothing have become highly sought after, offering a unique blend of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality.
The evolution of Nike apparel over the decades has been a captivating journey. From its humble beginnings in the 70's to its iconic casual look status in the 90's, Nike clothing has cemented itself as a timeless fashion staple.
Vintage Nike clothing continues to hold a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts. The 70's, 80's, and 90's witnessed the release of some of Nike's most iconic pieces. Whether it's a rare vintage Nike tee or a highly sought-after pair of sneakers, these items have become a fashion statement that transcends time.
So if you have been hit right in the nostalgia feels, ‘just do it’ and shop vintage Nike clothing at Messina Hembry.
Nike were producing simple, yet iconic sweatshirts in the 90s that would have the name or iconic swoosh logo emblazoned in large letters across the front that to this day is being copied by so many other fashion and streetwear brands.
Most Popular Items of Vintage Nike Clothing
The obvious Windbreaker is the top choice for any collector but who can forget the 90’s polo shirts with clashing collar and the two thin stripes on the sleeve. The sweatshirts that are now part of their ever-expanding retro ranges and if you can lay your hands on an original Air Jordan t-shirt from the time he was at The Chicago Bulls you definitely have a design that screams 1990’s.
Retro Rerelease of Classic Nike Clothing
Nike has gained a reputation for reintroducing classic designs from their archives, catering to the nostalgic cravings of sneakerheads and fashion enthusiasts alike. These retro rereleases of classic Nike clothing have become highly sought after, offering a unique blend of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality.
The evolution of Nike apparel over the decades has been a captivating journey. From its humble beginnings in the 70's to its iconic casual look status in the 90's, Nike clothing has cemented itself as a timeless fashion staple.
Vintage Nike clothing continues to hold a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts. The 70's, 80's, and 90's witnessed the release of some of Nike's most iconic pieces. Whether it's a rare vintage Nike tee or a highly sought-after pair of sneakers, these items have become a fashion statement that transcends time.
So if you have been hit right in the nostalgia feels, ‘just do it’ and shop vintage Nike clothing at Messina Hembry.
Reading time: 4 minutes Tommy Hilfiger is an American fashion designer known for his preppy, classic American style. Born on June 14, 1951 in Elmira, New York, his father was a clothing manufacturer and his mother was a nurse. His parents wanted him to get a college education and pursue a traditional career, but after working in a clothing store during the summer of 1969, he decided to use his life savings of $150 to open The People’s Palace clothing store in 1971. To get stock for the store, Hilfiger and a friend would drive to New York City to buy clothing such as bell-bottoms, peasant blouses, and leather jackets. He also began sketching his own designs, and would later write that "designing made me happier than anything I'd ever done. I knew from that early work that designing would be my life."
After The People's Place went bankrupt in 1977, Hilfiger studied the business side of the fashion industry. He then moved to NYC and worked for several different labels, before setting up his own company called Tommy Hill in 1979. After focusing on denim for a few years, he spent time in India, learning more about his trade: "I would sit in the factory with my pile of sketches and watch them being made, tweaking as I went. There's no better design school in the world.”
In 1981 he founded the company 20th Century Survival, and the following year he founded Click Point, which designed women's clothing. "[Wanting to form my own eponymous line] came from a desire to create something that wasn't out there already. I was really in tune with the market—I knew what existed, and I wanted this to be different. Maybe it's the small-town boy in me, but I've always loved the prep school look, traditional Ivy League, and the clothes that sailors and jocks wear. I wanted to take these familiar old things and give them a more laid-back attitude, to make them modern and cool...[with Tommy Hilfiger Corporation in 1985], finally, I felt like I was doing work that felt natural, that felt good. The brand we were building felt so honest, so true to who I am, that it didn't feel like a struggle at all."
— Tommy Hilfiger in 2010
Finally, In 1985, he founded the Tommy Hilfiger Corporation. This new line debuted with an extensive marketing campaign, setting up a large billboard in Times Square. After several successful years, Hilfiger then introduced his signature menswear collection in 1992.
A lifelong fan of rock, Hilfiger's collections are often influenced by the fashion of music subcultures. The clothes were often marketed in connection with music, and in 1993 Hilfiger was an official sponsor for Pete Townshend's Psychoderelict tour.
Hilfiger sponsored several music events, including Sheryl Crow's If It Makes You Happy tour in 1997, Britney Spears 1999 ...Baby One More Time Tour as main sponsor, and Lenny Kravitz's 1999 Freedom tour. By the mid-1990s, Hilfiger's style of clothing was popular with both the "preppy" scene and as hip hop fashion, with Snoop Dogg, Mobb Deep and more high profile hip hop artists wearing Tommy Hilfiger. This all culminated with R&B icon Aaliyah becoming the spokesperson for Tommy Hilfiger Corporation in 1997, and Tommy outfits became part of her iconic look.
In 1995, Hilfiger was also named Menswear Designer of the Year by the Council of Fashion Designers of America. This was followed by a period of expansion for the brand with the distribution of women’s clothing in 1996 and stores in Beverly Hills and London by 1998.
Following this rise in popularity in the 90’s, Tommy has remained one of the most well-known clothing brands today. Their 90’s clothes are some of the most sought after pieces of vintage clothing with spell out sweaters in particular being a centrepiece of a vintage outfit. Here at Messina Hembry, we’ve regularly got plenty of Tommy Hilfiger in stock, both vintage and more contemporary preloved pieces. Shop our range of Tommy here.
Reading time: 2 minutes Ralph Lauren is an American fashion designer, founder of one of the most well-known menswear labels in the world. He was born on October 14, 1939 in the Bronx, New York. After attending Baruch College and City University of New York to study business and working for Brooks Brothers as a salesman, he then founded his own company called Polo Fashions with his childhood friend, Arthur Ortenberg.
Ralph debuted his first full men’s collection in 1968. The polo player logo soon followed, and the rest is history. Applied to oxford shirts and the polo shirts pioneered by Rene Lacoste, Polo Ralph Lauren transformed the men’s fashion industry and has remained a staple to this day. Polo defined the classic preppy style, and this look has never fallen out of style.
As well as classic preppy styles, the 80’s and 90’s saw the emergence of subcultures based around the brand in New York. Lo Lifes came from groups of shoplifters who would exclusively rob Ralph Lauren pieces, the upper-class preppy look appealing to those who wanted to make it their own. These subcultures influenced both hip-hop fashion and streetwear, and Polo is a prominent part of all of these styles of dress.
You can browse plenty of vintage Ralph Lauren here today at Messina Hembry. Every item of clothing we sell is checked for authenticity and quality, so you can have peace of mind when buying from us!
Reading time: 3 minutes Love Island has announced that this year’s contestants will be dressed entirely in preloved clothing for the first time. eBay will be the show’s first ever Preloved Fashion Partner, providing all the outfits on for a show that has a huge influence on clothing trends in the UK.
In past seasons of the popular reality show that draws millions of viewers every summer, contestant outfits have been supplied by fast fashion companies. These companies have been criticised for promoting a disposable attitude towards clothing and fashion, with brand new items sold for as low as £3. Fashion and design trends are quickly copied for a fraction of the price every time a new season comes around, which means more and more clothes end up being made, transported and discarded every year.
After criticism was levelled at the producers of Love Island by advocates for more sustainable living, they’ve changed their approach and are instead sourcing preloved and vintage clothing for contestants to wear from eBay.
Love Island has a huge influence on UK consumers. When Millie Court (who won the show last year) wore a marble dress, searches of this item went up by 127%. When Molly-May Hague wore an I Saw It First dress on the show, it sold out almost straight away. Hopefully, this level of influence will give preloved clothing an extra boost at a time when sustainability and considering the environmental impact of our lifestyle choices is more important than ever.
Celebrity stylist Amy Bannerman has been recruited to style this year’s Islanders in the villa. Amy has previously worked with Dua Lipa, Rita Ora and Sophie Turner, and her touch should show viewers that you can achieve an on-point look without the need for fast fashion brands.
At Messina Hembry, we already know how easy it is to find the style and brands that you’re after for a fraction of the price. We source preloved clothing from around the world to give items a second chance at life and provide shoppers with sustainable options when it comes to fashion.
All our items have been quality checked and had their authenticity confirmed. Find your perfect summer look in our range of vintage clothing here today!
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Find out how you can fix your damaged clothes so they can look good and last as long as possible!
]]>Our latest brand spotlight is all about Lacoste. The green crocodile is an instantly recognisable icon of preppy sports style, and at Messina Hembry we’ve got plenty of preloved Lacoste pieces for men and women.
Our latest brand spotlight is all about Lacoste. The green crocodile is an instantly recognisable icon of preppy sports style, and at Messina Hembry we’ve got plenty of preloved Lacoste pieces for men and women.
Rene Lacoste was a French tennis player who, in 1929, created the polo shirt as we know it today. Dubbed ‘the Crocodile’ because of his performance on the court, he chose this animal as the logo for his newly designed shirt and the rest is history.
Today, you can still expect timeless styles from Lacoste. Their classic polo shirts are a wardrobe staple for men and women, but they offer much more than just tops. Chunky knit jumpers, sporty sweaters, and a combo of formal and causal jackets are just some of the other pieces you can find in our range of vintage Lacoste.
You can browse our range of vintage Lacoste here. Every item of clothing we sell is checked for both quality and authenticity, so you can have peace of mind when buying vintage from us!
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Denim jeans and jackets are timeless pieces of clothing that suit plenty of styles and go with most outfits. Despite it’s durability, over time you can end up with holes in your jeans and jackets, especially if it’s one of your go-to pieces to wear! So, how can you repair denim yourself? In this article we’ll take you through it.
]]>The North Face coats are ideal for keeping warm in the winter. They have a huge range of iconic designs with the most popular being the Nupste puffer jacket. There’s always demand for vintage North Face puffers and coats, and like with all of the biggest brands, counterfeiters have seen an opportunity to cash in on the popularity by making fakes. In this article, we’ll explain how to tell if a North Face is fake.
Thickness
If the North Face coat you’re checking is a Nupste or other puffer style, the easiest thing to spot is the thickness. Although a fake jacket will still be puffy, it won’t be a big and defined as the real ones. The best area to spot this is the arms; get a look at how much the ‘puffiness’ of the jacket actually sticks out and defines the arms. If it’s big but not puffy, it could be a fake.
Neck tag
There are some tell-tale signs of a fake when looking at the inner neck tag. Keep an eye out for extra or uneven stitching and thread left hanging. The logo itself can also give away a fake; on a real jacket, the letters should all be evenly spaced and aligned perfectly with the curved logo on the right. Have a look at the size of the letters too, as a fake will have letters with different levels of thickness. This is easiest to spot on the curved parts of the ‘C’ and ‘R’.
Chest and back logo
The chest and back logo are another easy area to spot some differences between real and fake. All of the same aspects of a real or fake logo on the neck tag also apply to the outer logos found on the chest and back of the jacket. It can be easier to spot these defects and differences on these outer logos as they’re a bit larger and the embroidered nature makes any misaligned or thicker letters stand out more.
Holographic tag
Lastly, have a look at the holographic tag near the washing tags at the bottom of the coat. Although fakes will often still have this holographic tag, you can tell if it’s fake by how well it reflects light. A real tag will appear much more colourful and bright; if the tag seems quite muted and dull, it could be a fake.
Spotting a fake with all of these checks
If you check each of these parts of your vintage North Face coat and find that several of the differences are present, it’s likely that the jacket is fake. The best way to avoid this issue is to shop for vintage coats at Messina Hembry, where every item of clothing we source is checked for both authenticity and quality. You can have peace of mind when buying vintage from us with our Authenticity Guarantee.
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Are you a second hand clothing retailer? Or maybe you’re thinking of starting your own Depop store? If so, you’ll need to bulk buy vintage clothing that you know is up to the right standard to sell on.
]]>Are you a second hand clothing retailer? Or maybe you’re thinking of starting your own Depop store? If so, you’ll need to bulk buy vintage clothing that you know is up to the right standard to sell on.
Here at Messina Hembry, as well as providing shoppers with sustainable fashion, we also offer vintage wholesale services for other sellers of preloved clothing. We offer these services in-person and via video call for customers worldwide. Our warehouse stocks used clothing that has been checked for quality and authenticity, with all the go-to vintage sweatshirts, fleeces, shirts, tee’s, trousers and more. There’s something for every kind of store with our inventory including hundreds of brands, with everything from vintage Nike to luxury pieces from Armani and everything else in between.
You can find our warehouse just off the A14 near Ipswich, Suffolk. Our location means we’re able to serve wholesale customers from Suffolk, Essex, Norfolk, London, Cambridgeshire and plenty of other areas in the UK.
If you come and visit us in person, a member of the team will guide you through our wholesale stock, letting you handpick your choice of vintage & preloved garments to purchase in bulk. With hundreds of designers and brands covering all kinds of styles, there’s something for every kind of customer in our selection of second hand clothing.
If you’re too far away from us to make the trip in-person, no worries - we also offer the same service via video call for all customers. A member of the team will virtually guide you around our stock so you can pick out your bulk order no matter where you’re based. This will then be prepared and promptly shipped out to you with our worldwide shipping services.
Whether you’re an established vintage retailer looking to work with a new supplier or further expand your inventory, or you’re looking to get started with your own brick and mortar, website, eBay or Depop shop, we can provide all the used clothing that that you need.
We ship within the UK and internationally so don’t hesitate to contact us if you’re based outside of the UK.
You can find our contact form, and more information about average pricing for different types of clothing, here on our wholesale page. Get in touch with us here today with a message about your stock requirements and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
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With more of us taking the environmental impact of our lifestyle in to account, it’s a good time to consider our clothes shopping habits. In this article, we’ll cover the fast fashion industry, the effect it’s having on the planet, and what shoppers who are both fashion and eco conscious can do to make a difference.
]]>With more of us taking the environmental impact of our lifestyle in to account, it’s a good time to consider our clothes shopping habits. In this article, we’ll cover the fast fashion industry, the effect it’s having on the planet, and what shoppers who are both fashion and eco conscious can do to make a difference.
Take a walk down any high street or search for clothes online and you’ll find plenty of retailers all selling you the latest looks from Instagram, the catwalks and lookbooks. These mass-produced pieces that emulate current trends make up the fast fashion industry, and it has a seriously harmful effect on the environment. Here’s a few stats to highlight this:
The fast fashion industry does a good job at convincing us that we need to regularly switch up our look to stay on trend, but it comes at a huge cost to our planet.
All of this pollution changes the natural world for the worse, harming both the environment and the people and animals who inhabit it. Being the second biggest cause of pollution worldwide means that the effect of the fast fashion industry is too vast to completely cover in this article, but we can highlight some of the main issues;
Water usage
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates that 1.5 trillion litres of water are used by the fast fashion industry every year. Water waste increases carbon emissions and contributes to the global issue of water shortages.
Throwing clothes away
A massive issue with our clothing habits is how much of it we throw in the bin. Around three quarters of Britons chuck their old clothes away, where they end up in a landfill, rather than recycling or donating them.
Polluting fabrics and dyes
Polyester is one of the most popular – and cheapest – textiles used in fast fashion garments. It also has a terrible effect on the environment, with around 70 million barrels of oil used to make these fibres every year. As well as this huge use of fossil fuels in its creation, polyester doesn’t decay like a natural fibre, and it’s one of the leading causes of microfibre pollution in the ocean. The dyes used in colourful clothing can also be toxic, polluting rivers and oceans. Because of this, the fast fashion industry is the second largest water polluter after the agricultural industry.
So, we can see that fast fashion is having a toxic effect on the planet. You might be wondering what you can do to make a difference. We all know about recycling, and using public transport or walking instead of driving everywhere. But the products we buy, especially our clothing, is a massively overlooked factor in our carbon footprint.
Buying second-hand clothing is the simplest and most significant step you can take to do your bit in reducing the impact of fast fashion. By shopping for second hand clothes, you’re one less customer who is buying in to the harmful fast fashion cycle. Whether you’re looking for vintage clothing or newer pieces that still have plenty of life left, you can find clothing to suit your style that’s already been produced and worn by another customer.
If you’re keen to take a different approach to how you source your wardrobe, you’re in luck; at Messina Hembry, we stock all kinds of quality clothing from your favourite brands at huge discounts from their original price. We source clothing, nearly-new and vintage, that was headed for landfill. We check each item for quality and authenticity, deep clean and steam everything and stock it all across our various online stores. When you shop with us, you’ll be reducing the impact your shopping decisions have on the environment and spending less than you would for the same clothing when brand new.
To take the first step in helping both the planet and your bank balance, have a browse of our stores today.
For all general preloved clothing, check out Messina Hembry.
For vintage sportswear and streetwear, visit our ASOS Marketplace boutique.
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Ralph Lauren since its conception in the 70s has been a sought-after brand and with popularity, comes counterfeits. Follow our 6 tips to spot real and fake Ralph Lauren!
]]>Remember that when you shop at Messina Hembry, all of the vintage clothing that we sell has been inspected for quality and authenticity. Enjoy peace of mind when you shop for preloved Ralph Lauren clothing with our authenticity guarantee!
Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter, too; you'll receive exclusive discounts and the newest stock updates so you never miss out on the latest drops.
Labels can be a big give away when it comes to fakes. If you check the label of a genuine Ralph Lauren there should be distinct features. Every item of Ralph Lauren clothing, from a Ralph Lauren men’s trousers to Ralph Lauren tennis skirt, has a label under the collar with a separate small tag sticking out with the size written on it. If this is missing, that can be your first indication that the item is a fake. Fakes also can often have a font that is illegible and with misspellings. A genuine Ralph Lauren would also have stitching along the collar that is the same colour as the shirt. It also helps to visually compare labels. Here is a genuine one for example. Watch out for things like spacing, font etc. Small differences can indicate a fake. All of Messina Hembry’s collection of vintage Ralph Lauren includes a picture of the label.
The buttons on a genuine Ralph Lauren has a thread that matches the colour of the shirt. They should be neat and in line with each other.
The hem on genuine Ralph Lauren will have a slight high-low hem. With the back hem being lower than the front. Hemlines that are longer at the front or of equal length would indicate a fake.
Everything that you see in stock at Messina Hembry has been quality controlled, this includes inspecting the quality of the item and making sure it is genuine. With our authenticity guarantee, you can rest assured that everything you buy from us is legit.
We have a wide variety of Ralph Lauren products including their iconic oxford shirts, cosy jumpers, dresses, tops and trousers. Check out our collection of second hand and vintage clothing from Ralph Lauren. Happy hunting!
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Now that Spring is approaching fast, it’s time to swap your thick winter coats for lighter layers.
To prepare yourself for the in-between weather, you need to make vintage jumpers your Spring staple. Whether it’s a chunky knit, a timeless turtle neck, a versatile cardigan or a casual sweatshirt or hoodie, it’ll see you through the season in style.
]]>To prepare yourself for the in-between weather, you need to make vintage jumpers your Spring staple. Whether it’s a chunky knit, a timeless turtle neck, a versatile cardigan or a casual sweatshirt or hoodie, it’ll see you through the season in style. At Messina Hembry we have a wide range of vintage jumpers, cardigans, hoodies and sweatshirts for men and women from top brands.
Not sure where to start? Check out these styles for your vintage jumper inspiration:
Turtlenecks
Turtlenecks are a staple for any jumper lover! Their timeless style can be seen throughout the era’s making them essential in any vintage wardrobe. Turtlenecks can be styled in a range of ways; for a casual look, seek out an oversized turtleneck and pair it with jeans. For a smarter outfit go for a tight-fitting turtleneck tucked into a pair of vintage trousers or a midi skirt with a pair of hoop earrings.
Chunky Knits
Chunky knits are the ideal Spring uniform if you want to stay cosy despite the warmer weather. Chuck on a chunky jumper with some slim fitting jeans and your favourite trainers for the ultimate comfort outfit which still looks great. Messina Hembry has a huge range of knitwear from a range of brands to complete your Spring wardrobe.
Patterned jumpers
If you like making a statement, then a vintage patterned jumper is a must-have. Instantly brighten up any outfit with bold colours and unique vintage patterns. Pair a bright jumper with jeans or a denim skirt, sunglasses and white trainers for an up-beat Spring look.
Cardigans
The warmer weather may make you want to take your summer tops and t-shirts out of hibernation, but there’s still a chill in the air. The answer? Throw a cardigan on. There is an abundance of ways to wear cardigans. For a daytime look, pair a slouchy cardigan with jeans and a vintage logo tshirt and jeans, or for a more dressy look, go for a dark coloured cardigan over a dress or a tighter fitting one tucked into trousers or a skirt.
Sweatshirts and Hoodies
Every vintage wardrobe needs a favourite vintage sweatshirt or hoodie, or both! Not only will they be an easy go-to option for Spring, but they’re also so versatile. Wear them with trousers, jeans or skirts for an effortlessly cool look. At Messina Hembry, we have sweatshirts and hoodies from brands such as Nike, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger and many more!
Now you’re armed with this seasons must-have jumpers, it’s time to shop! Check out our range of jumpers, hoodies and sweatshirts for women and men's collection here. Happy hunting!
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Here at Messina, we don’t just find the best preloved second hand designer clothes for adults we also curate vintage children's clothes for children. Here we have reasons why you should be keeping your child fashionable with designer children's clothes second hand.
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Denim is a durable fabric that can last decades and is a basic in anyone's wardrobe. Denim is also perfect for children to protect their little legs from any falls they may have. So all round denim is great for kids. However, buying quality denim from brands like Levi’s can cost money. You can buy denim jeans in charity shops but why spend the same amount for old Primark jeans when you can buy designer? We have a great range of denim including Abercrombie & Fitch and Levi’s.
Whether you are trying to save money or diminish your carbon footprint buying second hand and vintage children's clothes don’t need to be the end of the world (for them). We have you covered with pre-loved designer children's clothes second hand. So what are you waiting for? Explore our range of vintage children’s clothes and dress your kids for less. Happy Hunting!
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Why splash out on brand new, expensive designer clothes when you can shop the most iconic designer brands for a fraction of the cost? There is an abundance of vintage designer clothing which is not only affordable but has stood the test of time, and still looks expensive. Here are 5 things to look out for when finding cheap designer clothes!
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Unlike the fast fashion, vintage pieces are made from high-quality, durable fabricsHigh-Quality you don’t have to sacrifice quality to find expensive looking yet cheap clothing. Shopping second-hand doesn’t mean sacrificing quality if anything the quality is often better than new clothing. At Messina Hembry we quality check all our items, so whatever you discover from our collection, you know it’ll be quality. For adding that expensive touch to your wardrobe, look out for silk, leather, cotton and denim.
Today, new fashion trends come and go with the seasons, never to return. If you’re not someone who wants to feel pressured to replace your wardrobe every season, then having a capsule wardrobe of classic, expensive looking vintage pieces are for you.
Ralph Lauren classic shirts are great quality and the designs have changed very little over the years, making them a staple in every designer wardrobe. Pair them with a pair of slim fitting jeans during the day, or tucked into a pair of smart vintage trousers for an expensive looking evening look.
Every designer vintage clothing lover needs a favourite vintage jacket. Jackets are a great way to jazz up a simple outfit, giving it that expensive edge. Pairing a vintage blazer with a smart pair of trousers and a shirt is an expensive look which will never go out of fashion. If you’re more of a casual dresser, try styling your vintage blazer with a pair of jeans and a shirt to inject some class into a simple look.
As every vintage clothing lover knows, finding the perfect pair of jeans is one of the most challenging, but rewarding pursuits in the second-hand shopping game. Whilst jeans today can look cheap and lose their shape after a few washes, vintage denim holds its shape, colour and therefore a prized spot in your wardrobe. Brands such as Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger will ensure your denim looks expensive, whilst also having that second-hand vintage charm.
At Messina Hembry we only stock the best quality vintage clothing, so you know you're getting the best. Browse our collections of vintage designer clothing brands here. Happy hunting!
]]>Have you always wanted a Ralph Lauren shirt, Hugo Boss suit or Calvin Klein dress but can’t afford it? Shopping second hand allows you to buy the designer brands that you’ve always desired without breaking the bank. There is an abundance of second-hand designer clothes that are still in fashion - from different eras to different styles, there is always something out there for you and it can be yours for a great price!
Buying vintage clothing is a great way of tackling the waste and pollution that the fashion industry produces, which is second only to oil in terms of the amount created. Buying second hand or vintage clothes also saves them from the landfill and gives that piece of clothing a new lease of life.
Knowing your measurements when shopping online saves you a lot of hassle and time. When browsing Messina Hembry you will be able to understand the true size of the suits as we meticulously take their measurements. We include armpit to armpit, armpit to cuff, length of the collar to the hem, and waist measurements on all our listings. You can take your measurements yourself or find a tailor for a more accurate reading. A quick tip for self-measuring: measure your waist and the waist of your favourite pair of comfortable trousers and compare the measurements to find your ideal fit.
You’ve heard it hundreds of times but the Starks aren’t wrong, winter is coming. Unlucky for us, Winter comes every year in our world and every year many of us hunt for that perfect winter coat. Considering that this can be an annual occurrence, the hunting is most likely unsuccessful. The journey can take us to every high street store and we can either end up empty handed or with an empty wallet. Shopping for a vintage coat has many benefits from saving pennies, to recycling and being eco-friendly. Read on for tips and tricks to help you find a great vintage coat to keep you warm this winter.
Consider the rest of your wardrobe when browsing. Would a colour block coat tie patterns together or would a patterned vintage coat spice it up? With this in mind, you are able to create a cohesive wardrobe which allows you to get the most out of your vintage winter coat - as it will go with every outfit! Utilise the colour filter on Messina Hembry to streamline your search.
Brands are all down to personal preference - and having favourites in mind can help you focus your search so you find your desired items more quickly.
Now that you are armed with a couple of brands that you want to keep an eye out for, you need to explore the styles you like. This can be a process but once you understand the different fits from certain eras, this can help you find gold! Knowing what styles you want helps you when shopping online. Messina Hembry has plenty of filters that can narrow down your search from the style and type down to the size and colour.
While shopping a massive collection can be daunting, it just means there are plenty of clothes for you to browse. Here at Messina Hembry we hand-pick the best when it comes to vintage and second hand designer clothes and every day we add new items to our store. With such a vast range of clothing, we can provide you with plenty of options.
Shopping on eBay can be stressful and risky with many individual sellers providing a no returns policy. If you purchase an item and it’s not the right fit or colour this can be a waste of time and money. Messina Hembry offers a full refund for any items returned within 14 days - making sure you are 100% happy with your find.
Second hand designer clothes have many perks and now that you are armed with a few tips you can go forth and shop! Check out our range of women’s second hand clothes and the men’s collection. Happy hunting!
]]>The Levi 501 jeans are the original pair and boast the iconic fit. With a button fly, straight leg and mid rise fit, they are flattering on all figures and do wonders for your bum, making getting your hands on a pair of vintage 501s even more worthwhile. Made from 100% cotton, Levi jeans give no stretch or give, making them a substantial pair of jeans. A vintage pair of 501s can set you back more than £1000, but follow these tips to help you find the perfect pair of Levi 501 jeans - and getting your money's worth.
Since the first pair launched in 1873 there have been multiple releases of the 501. Understanding their characteristics will help you know if you are getting the best for your money.
Circa: 1960
If you look at the red tab on the back there will be a big ‘E’. This big ‘E’ means that they were manufactured before the 1970s. Be prepared to pay big bucks for the big ‘E’ as they can go for £1000 upwards and are a collectors item. They have a single stitch in the back pockets and are made from selvedge denim.
Circa: Early 1970s
These are characterised by the single stitch in the back pocket. There is also a single letter or number stamped on the top button. This indicates that there will be a single stitch. A triple would indicate a double stitch - which are newer.
Circa: Late 1970s to 1980s
The most common vintage jeans you will find are the redline double stitch. Inside the cuff of the jeans you will see a thick hem on the outseam. There will be a natural white border and red coloured selvedge.
Circa: Late 1980s - 1990s
The traditional 501s have the popular light denim wash and don’t have the stretch of modern jeans. They also don’t have the redline like the older model.
Every pair has been worn, so they will wear differently and fit your body differently. If you are buying online, knowing your measurements like your waist size and inseam length, will help in finding the right fit. Here at Messina Hembry we hand measure all our items to ensure you know their true size.
You can also forget the gender labels with vintage Levi 501s as they are gender neutral when it comes to the cut and shape. You could find a pair of men’s jeans that fit a woman’s body perfectly and vice versa.
You’ve found the perfect length, the perfect wash and the perfect amount of wear... but they don’t fit! Don’t panic. If the fit is loose this gives you the opportunity to get the tailor-made look with a few alterations. Taking your jeans to a tailor will mean you can have the perfect pair while keeping the vintage feel.
As Levi 501 vintage jeans are hot property, there are a number of fakes flying around the market. Here at Messina Hembry we go through all the checks for you and guarantee genuine vintage Levi 501s.
Check out our men’s jeans collection and our women’s selection to find the ones for you. Happy hunting!
]]>Streetwear arguably was born in the late 1970s in California when local surfboard designer, Shawn Stussy, started selling t-shirts with the now infamous Stussy logo. Born from the subculture of skateboarders and surfers in California, streetwear was adopted by the youth and hip-hop in the 80s. With fashion’s dress code relaxing and casual wear booming, there are plenty of reasons why you should be buying streetwear, especially vintage.
There is no denying that the 90s have made a comeback! With millennials rocking 90s fashion like it never went away, it makes sense to buy genuine 90s streetwear. With plenty of modern brands copying the trend there isn’t a shortage. But it begs the question - why buy modern streetwear designed to mimic 90s fashion when you can just have 90s vintage streetwear?
There are ethical implications when shopping fast fashion. There is also evidence of fast fashion damaging the planet. With people becoming more aware of the impact fashion has on our world, more are now choosing to shop vintage. Vintage clothing has been saved from the landfill and also saves from further manufacturing.
It takes a lot of digging and searching but the rewards are worthwhile. Shopping vintage you can find that rare streetwear item that everyone will be envious of. With streetwear inventing collection drops there are plenty of sought-after items that are available on the market. Finding rare vintage Adidas can be seen as an investment as their drops are considered collector items.
The vintage Nike sweatshirt you nabbed has probably lived through a decade of winters and that’s because of its high quality. With fast fashion diminishing the quality of clothes, it’s no wonder clothes today are now considered ‘throw-away fashion’.
Before a vintage Adidas jacket is yours, it had a previous owner and with that comes history. This can be seen by the wear and tear of the item. This adds to its uniqueness, the fade in its colour, the paint splattered on its arm - it adds to the charm of the item.
Shopping for vintage streetwear can be affordable. Here at Messina Hembry we offer pre-loved and vintage clothes at bargain prices including streetwear brands Stussy, Adidas, Nike and more.
So what are you waiting for? Find that vintage streetwear gold you have been hunting for and check out our range of men’s vintage activewear and the women’s selection. Happy hunting!
]]>Adidas’ first apparel release in 1967 was their classic tracksuit. To this day the Adidas tracksuit is an iconic outfit and has been a favourite for many years. Hunting for a complete vintage Adidas tracksuit is like hunting for gold but it’s oh so worth it! With the classic three stripes on the outside of the track top and bottoms it’s an unmistakable look.
In the 90s track jackets were all the rave especially the Adidas’ three stripes. It’s very much a style that is being mimicked today with modern production. While a brand new Adidas jacket is cool, it can’t compare to the 90s vintage Adidas tracksuit jacket. With blockout colours and a variety of designs it's easy to find vintage Adidas from the 90s that is unique, including vintage Adidas sweatshirts.
lours and a variety of designs it's easy to find vintage Adidas from the 90s that is unique including vintage Adidas sweatshirts.
Shopping for a vintage Adidas windbreaker is like shopping in a candy store. The Adidas windbreaker is available in a massive array of styles, colours and silhouettes and is a perfect addition to any vintage streetwear fanatics wardrobe.
Vintage Adidas t-shirts are another must-have. Like the windbreakers their t-shirts come in a variety of colours and styles. There are a lot of fun unique vintage t-shirts available on the market but their classic trefoil t-shirt is a staple for any vintage wardrobe. They go perfectly with vintage Levi jeans, especially the classic Levi 501 jeans.
Now that you are armed with the knowledge of Adidas classics it’s time to go hunting. Here at Messina Hembry we stock a wide variety of vintage Adidas including tracksuit jackets, t-shirts and sweatshirts. Check out our collection of men’s vintage Adidas and women’s Adidas. Happy hunting!
]]>Fast forward to the 21st century and the Wrangler brand is still going strong, constantly releasing new styles and lines. However, there is something special about searching for, and finding, your own vintage Wranglers.
In this quick blog, we'll take you through how to find a great pair of vintage Wranglers. To make it even easier, you can browse our entire selection of quality preloved Wranglers here!
Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter, too; you'll receive exclusive discounts and the newest stock updates so you never miss out on the latest drops.
Firstly, look for the blue bell. This is the distinctive mark of vintage Wrangler jeans. There should be a tag on the inside of the fly, and a bell etched into the back pocket. This iconic blue bell and ‘W’ are what best defines the look of the brand, once intended for cowboys in rodeo races.
As with all vintage denim, it’s a rule of thumb that you will need at least two sizes higher in a vintage jean than you would expect to wear in a modern pair. Don’t panic! In addition to this general rule, bear in mind that vintage jeans are ‘pre-loved’ and as such, will have already been worn by at least one person, so by the time they get to you will have been stretched and shaped to the body of the previous owner.
When buying your vintage Wranglers online, it’s always best to check the returns policy, in case the size isn’t quite right. (Here at Messina Hembry we fully refund any items returned to us within 14 days, for example).
Vintage Wranglers are great for women with a slim build - they hug the hips and create the illusion of more curves. For a curvier figure you have two options, either look find a men’s pair that fits you, or go for a brand that better accommodates your figure. Wrangler and Lee both lean towards straight cut utility, whereas Levi and Calvin Klein opt for shapely cuts.
Vintage Wranglers exist at the lower end of the price spectrum compared to other vintage jeans. Well known for their solid, long lasting construction and straight cuts, they haven’t seen the jump into fashion that brands like Lee, Levis and Calvin Clein have pursued.
But this means you’re getting more for your money.
It is a difficult job to wear out a pair of Wranglers because they were built for a working life. If you find a pair that fits well and looks good, then you can be sure that you have a pair of jeans for life. That’s why there is a lot of choice for vintage Wranglers on the market. They just don’t die.
You can pick up a good quality pair of wranglers for as little as £8.99 right here at Messina Hembry. The maximum that you will pay is around £15 for more classic, iconic styles like the straight Texas.
If you’re looking for a great quality pair of utility jeans, straight cut and long lasting, then Wrangler is the obvious choice. Look for a pair with no stretch, that fits well, and you will have a pair of jeans that will last for a lifetime. They might not have the fashion pedigree that other brands enjoy, but that means you can get the perfect pair of Wranglers for a fraction of the price, and they will last much longer.
You can find some great examples of preloved Wranglers right here at Messina Hembry; we've also got a great selection of other vintage trousers, including Levi's, Dickies and more.
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Firstly, don’t panic. Vintage jeans are always smaller than contemporary jeans. If you’re looking to buy vintage Levi’s, they’ll be at least a couple or three sizes higher than your normal waist measurement. As a general rule, the older the pair, the more high waisted they’ll be.
Also known as the wash, this is a key consideration. While you can always amend the fit, the colour of the denim will be as a result of the washing and wearing over the years and is less easy to change. It’s important to ensure that the colour is exactly what you’re looking for. Also bear in mind other touches like paint splatters, whisker fades or rips.
It’s possible, if you find the right wash but not quite the right size, to have a tailor make alterations without compromising the vintage feel of your Levi’s. A baggier pair is preferable as that gives the tailor more material to play around with when it comes to altering them and getting them right.
Also, vintage Levi jeans can be cut into shorts - if you can bear to take the scissors to them!
Check the tags!
Authentic vintage Levi’s jeans were manufactured before 1971. To check a pair of jeans, simply find the classic red tab and check that the ‘E’ in Levi’s is a capital letter. 80s and 90s Levi’s will have a lower case ‘e’. However, these are still stylish so don’t ignore these either!
Another giveaway which helps determine a true pair of vintage Levi’s is the inseams: almost all Levi’s manufactured before the mid 1980s featured a single felled inseam (a single stitch running down the inner thigh).
Not just for men
For ladies, it’s worth keeping an eye out for men’s jeans as well. A lot of vintage Levi’s are men’s styles and will fit just fine.
Now you’re armed with all the information you need to grab yourself the perfect pair of vintage Levi’s. Check out our men’s jeans collection and our women’s selection to find the ones for you. Happy hunting!
Look for classic, heritage brands like Wrangler (established 1904), Lee (1889), or Diesel (1978), and of course Levi’s (1853) - a brand so synonymous with ‘vintage jeans’ that we’ve written a guide specifically to buying vintage Levi’s. These brands are well constructed and can look great for years. That said, there’s a wide array of alternative brands available for you to peruse in your search for the perfect vintage denim jeans.
Set aside some time, understand that it's going to take you a while to find the perfect pair of vintage jeans, and enjoy the experience. Part of the fun is exploring the styles, cuts and unique adornments that make up the vintage denim market.
It’s commonly accepted that vintage jeans are typically a couple of sizes smaller than modern jeans. It’s best to try them on if you’re buying in a bricks and mortar store. If you’re buying online, make sure there is a robust returns policy - such as the one we have at Messina Hembry.
The size on the label probably won’t be reflective of the true size of a worn in, vintage garment. If you’re used to wearing a certain size of jean, those rules don’t apply here, so try not to be precious or get hung up on sizing. Vintage jeans tend to be 100% cotton denim, unlike their modern equivalent which has a ‘stretch’ thanks to the elastene fabric.
So, size doesn’t really mean anything anymore. But what is key are the measurements, especially when you’re buying online. Our key tip here is to compare the measurements listed to a pair of jeans you already own and love. Ensure you cross reference the waist, cuff, rise, hips and inseam.
But what makes each pair so different? Much of this can be attributed to their past lives and the owner who has gone before. Denim changes over time and takes on the attributes and shape of the previous owner - whether it’s their waist, hips, and knees, or even their lifestyle. As a result of this they're all one-of-a-kind garments.
Here’s a good tip for a quick size check if you have lots of items in the fitting room: hold the waistband around your neck like a necklace. If you feel like you’re being strangled, the jeans are not for you! If the waistband meets and overlaps by a couple of inches, they should be a good fit.
Many people stick to the rule that you find pairs that are the right length. If you have to shorten a pair of vintage jeans, there is the possibility that whole leg is going to fit wrong - the knee-holes won’t be on the knees; other adornments or embellishments may not be where they were intended.
However, you may find your perfect vintage jeans that don’t quite fit as perfectly as you’d like and tailoring is still an option. If you find an expert, they’ll be able to make the necessary adjustments to achieve a perfect fit, without compromising the vintage feel you wanted in the first place.
If you want to ‘DIY shorten’ your jeans, a good tip is don’t waste your time hemming them. It works fine to just cut them with fabric scissors, then rough up the edges with a nail file for an imperfect frayed edge. Putting them in the tumble dryer also helps loosen up the threads.
As with anything in life, don’t buy cheap. Don’t get us wrong, we love a bargain. But look for a bargain on good quality vintage jeans - the right pair could last you for years. Investing in a good vintage pair that will last a long time will ultimately end up being more cost effective than shelling out for cheaper jeans that you need to replace.
An awareness of what style and era of jean fits which body shape will be useful in your quest for vintage jeans.
Hourglass figure
Will typically suit older pair (any jean until the mid '90s), because they tend to be more nipped in at the waist.
Rectangular
Search for a pair of jeans that was manufactured in the mid to late 1990s. This was an era in which men started started wearing their jeans toward their hips and the style of the time reflects that trend.
Rounder tummy
A zip fly rather than button will help be more flattering and help keep your tummy looking flat.
Finally, the great thing about denim is that although styles have changed over time, modern denim borrows so heavily from past styles that vintage looks just as fresh, if not more cutting edge than contemporary styles. So really, you can’t go wrong!
Whatever brand, style or look you’re going for, we hope this guide has helped give you a steer on how to go about buying your vintage denim jeans. Check out our men’s jeans range and women’s denim selection today and find your perfect pair.
The athleisure trend that has swept its way into every teen and twenty-something’s wardrobe over the past couple of years, really is showing no signs of stopping. Designer vintage clothing is brilliant for sourcing the creme de la creme of genuine athleisure garments that don’t only look spectacular, but have a pretty friendly price tag too..!
We’ve looking into what we believe will be the hottest athleisure trends of Autumn and the brands that will take us there. Below, we’ve delved into the world of these designer vintage brands that despite being drenched in exciting fashion history, are still paving the way for the latest athleisure trends in 2018.
Italian brand Kappa is the face of the sportswear revival! Having re-designed their classic styles and signatures (such as their taped logo accents) the modern Kappa collection combines classic sportswear with contemporary styling. Kappa originally started as a stock form in 1916 (yes it’s that old!) but turned into the Kappa we know today in 1967. It’s currently one of the leading brands in sportswear and lifestyle worldwide. The brand is renowned as being technical, nonconformist, colourful, flexible and competent.
Now, let’s take a quick dip into their history and how they came to be…
In 1956, a faulty stock of socks manufactured by Maglificio Calzaturificio Torinese (MCT), a company established by Abramo Vitale in 1916, was mistakenly distributed on the market. Retailers returned the socks and MCT, and to give the product renewed strength and credibility, they branded the new collection’s packaging with a “K” and the German caption “Kontroll”. From that moment customers only ordered the socks with the K – and in a short time Kappa became a leader of the socks and underwear market.
In 1968, Kappa evolved even more when Maurizio Vitale, the founder’s great-grandson and newly-appointed managing director, saw John Lennon interviewed on TV, wearing a military shirt belonging to a casualty of the Vietnam war. This was when he decided to conquer a market eager for casual and unisex clothes. Maurizio Vitale had thousands of unsold T-shirts, that were lying in warehouses, dyed green and customised with military stars and insignia - this was the birth of the Robe di Kappa brand. Just before 2000, Kappa started a new revolution and at the same time made a dream come true: it became the technical sponsor of the Italian national soccer team and for the 2002 World Cup it sent its champions on the field wearing the Kappa KOMBAT.
Check our range of vintage Kappa clothing
Ellesse
Ellesse was founded by Leonardo Servadio in Perugia in 1959 and it grew in popularity during the 1970s as a producer of skiwear such as quilted jackets and ski trousers. In 1979, Ellesse's Jet Pant, ski trousers that featured padded knees and a wide lower leg to fit around a ski boot, was included in an event at the Pompidou Centre in Paris celebrating Italian design.
Another sport with which Ellesse has been closely associated withsince its early years, is, as you may know - tennis. The Ellesse logo references the form of a tennis ball with the shape of the tips of a pair of skis! Through the 1970s and 1980s, Ellesse gained a reputation for combining sportswear functionality with street-level fashion styling and was one of the first sportswear brands to feature their logo prominently on the outside of its garments. In the mid 80s, French designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac worked with Ellesse to make an early collaboration between a sportswear company and a fashion designer - the true meaning of athleisure! The UK casuals/dressers adopted the brand in the 80s as premium sportswear took off across British casual culture.
Take a look at our collection of vintage Ellesse clothing
Fila
Fila has its roots in Italy but is now a South Korean sporting goods company. Fila was founded in 1911 in Italy and since a takeover in 2007 by Fila Korea, it now has offices in 11 countries round the world.
When Fila started up in Italy by the Fila brothers in 1911, it originally started by making clothing for the people of the Italian Alps but now it manufactures sportswear for men, women, children and athletes. The company's primary product was originally underwear, before moving into sportswear in the 1970s, initially with the endorsement of tennis player Björn Borg. The brand got more popular after moving into sportswear and that is where it has stayed!
Browse our vintage Fila clothing
Champion
Champion is an American manufacturer of clothing, specialising of course, in sportswear.
The company was established in 1919 by the Feinbloom brothers and Champion soon signed an agreement with the Michigan Wolverines to produce uniforms for their teams. In the 1930s the company was renamed "Champion Knitting Mills Inc.” that made sweatshirts. Soon after, Champion products were adopted by the US Military Academy to be used during training exercises and physical education classes.
During the 1990s, Champion made uniforms for all the NBA teams as well as some NFL teams
It has also produced sportswear for many major US universities as well as being the kit manufacturer of the Olympic basketball team that competed at the 1992 Summer Olympics. From there, they have continued to produce large amounts of kit for many different sports teams from Premier League, the Wales national football team and Greek basketball team and many others!
Check out our selection of Champion vintage clothing
Reebok is a global athletic footwear and apparel company, operating as a subsidiary of German sports giant, Adidas since 2005.
Reebok makes and sells fitness, running and CrossFit sportswear (clothing and footwear). It’s the official footwear and apparel sponsor for Ultimate Fighting Championship, CrossFit, Spartan Race, and Les Mills.
Unlike all of the other sportswear brands in this blog, Reebok was founded in Lancashire, England! From 1958 until 1986, Reebok apparel featured a Union Jack but still use the Union Jack in many of their classics. Despite being a British born company, in November 2016, Reebok announced they would be moving their headquarters location to Boston. The reasons for the move, according to the company, is so that they can be located in an urban environment that is more desirable to millennial workers and to “clarify the roles” of United States offices - this will be happening this Autumn.
Reebok signed Venus Williams after winning singles titles at Wimbledon and the 2000 Summer Olympics and then in December 2000, Reebok signed a 10-year licensing agreement with the NFL for the exclusive rights to manufacture and sell NFL licensed merchandise, including uniforms and footwear, for all 32 teams.
Take a look at our vintage Reebok clothing
So those are some of the hottest vintage althleisure brands to be keeping an eye out for this Autumn - we foresee lots of sweatshirts, crops and bomber jackets!
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As anyone who has owned any item of sequin clothing in their lifetime will tell you, glitter clothing’s biggest downfall is how easily they can get caught and come off. As our designer vintage clothes here at Messina Hembry are, well, you know, vintage, so occasionally you may well need to sew a sequin or two (or a selection) back onto your clothes. If you’ve purchased a preloved item that hasn’t got sequins on but you would like to jazz it up with sequins, this guide is here to help you too.
So, how do you go about attaching sequins onto clothing? There are several methods and ways that you can do this; we’ve outlined them below to help you make your clothes the jazziest and funkiest they can be!
Option 1: Attaching individual sequins
If your sequins are round with a hole in the middle like a lot are, you can use one short straight stitch or several across the sequins all starting from the middle hole to sew them onto your garment. If using only one straight stitch, It will look better if you stitch the straight stitches all in one direction. You may want to take several straight stitches if you want a really strong hold.
If you have a sequin confetti, e.g sequins with different shapes such as stars and flowers, make straight stitches at intervals across the shape (between the ridges they usually have), starting from the central hole. Shaped sequins like these come in a range of shapes and sizes with either a single hole or several placed near the edge.
Option 2: Attaching sequins in a row with back stitches
The best way to sew a long line of sequins is with back stitches where you will need to apply one sequin to each back stitch. You will have to ensure that all the sequins face the same direction for a uniform look. These rows can be sewn with both flat sequins and cup sequins.
So, first of all, you will need to individually attach a sequin. Do this by making two anchoring straight stitches on either side of sequins before bringing up the needle from the back two threads away from the sequin you have just attached. Now thread the needle with the sequin! Next, make one anchoring stitch to the front and then again come up two threads from the sequin. Finally, thread another sequin and continue like this for the rest of them.
Option 3: Attaching sequins in a row with two straight stitches
Whilst option 2 is a good way to sew sequins in a row, this is an extra secure stitching method. Here, follow the above instructions but rather than using back stitches, you will be making two straight stitches across the sequins. You can also make the sequins lie side by side with this method.
Option 4: Attaching sequins with straight stitches in a random fashion
This option involves stitching the sequins in a row with straight stitches from the top. This is not a very secure stitch nor does the sequin lie flat with this one… However, for small sequins and fast stitching this method is totally fine. It also works well for dense filling of sequins inside a small design.
Option 5: Attaching large sequins at the edge
Big sequins tend to have a hole near the edge (called paillettes/spangles). To attach them to your garment, use a small straight stitch or two to attach the hole to the edge. To make this look more decorative, add a cup sequin and a bead near the edge of the large sequin!
Option 6: Attach sequins with fabric glue
If you’re not a fan of sewing, you can also attach your sequins to your clothes with fabric glue. Whilst this isn’t the best option for longevity, it’s a fantastic quick fix. Simply drop a small amount of fabric glue onto the garment and then stick the sequin on top. Leave it to set for around 30 minutes then you can wear it straight away
Option 7: A Sequin Trim
This option is for if you really want to customise your item of clothing by having a running trim of sequins along the bottom or on a sleeve. Sequin trims are long trims with sequins already threaded and stitched. They come in single rows or multiple rows of sequins neatly attached and it not, they can be attached by hand by using a couching stitch (use a hand needle and attach the sequins trim at intervals with small straight stitches across the trim). If this seems a little too complex for your hand sewing abilities, you can use the sewing machine to attach the trim with a wide zig zag stitch. If you have a sequin foot or braiding foot, the sequin trim will slide inside the foot and make your job a lot easier.
Here, you will have to ensure that the zig zag stitches land on either side of the trim and the needle is not hitting the sequins at any point during stitching!
Option 8: Attaching sequins with a sewing machine
It’s possible to sew sequins with your regular sewing machine when using large sequins - it’s a lot harder with smaller sequins! If you choose to use your machine, you should use the practices of free motion embroidery.
So, use a small needle and monofilament nylon thread on the machine whilst keep the fabric stretched on an embroidery hoop. Make sure you anchor the thread with some stitches to keep the sequin in place and then make a stitch to the edge of the sequin first, before moving the hoop and fabric so that the sequin hole is under the needle. Here, you need to take a stitch and then move to the other edge of the sequin and make a stitch - repeat this for all the other sequins!
We hope this has been another useful guide for you on how to attach, re-attach and jazz up your favourite vintage garms!
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The 1990s was a turning point in the fashion world. Not only for shapes, patterns and styles but how fashion was portrayed to the world and how it was consumed.
Geoffrey Beene, one of New York's most famous fashion designers, predicted that fashion, moving into the millennium would “be a backlash against overdressing and ostentation. Economic conditions will change things, clothes will have to work for life.” With the 1980s famous for its focus on status, celebrities and opulence and clothing designers including Romeo Gigli and Christian Lacroix all celebrating the romantic aspect of high fashion, the more extravagant the better. It was all about height, decoration and volume, which, like all that goes up, must come down.
Following this, another compartment of 80s fashion which influenced the democratic style of the 90s was avant garden minimalism - clean, architectural, simple clothing. It was this that ushered in a new breed of fashion, particularly in women. In the 1990s, women brought down their big hair, removed the shoulder pads and embraced sexiness. Enter: slip dresses, pumps, suede boots, vest tops worn without bras etc. Calvin Klein noted here that “The eighties were a very conservative period, sexually and in so many ways. There’s a restructuring of priorities. It’s less about flash and more about people in the streets, the environment. People are becoming more real.”
In the 90s, because of this new movement of fashion, a ‘new brand of fashion intelligentsia’ established themselves, proving that the fashion industry was becoming forward-thinking and modern. More traditional designers such as Gucci and Chanel started to focus on more affordable aspects of their designs too which in fact, really helped to rejuvenate Chanel who had started to fall by the wayside. The 1990s showed a real shift in social responsibility and started to serve the public more than clothing - it became cultural and tied in the real world to what was being exhibited on the runway.
Because of all of this, fashion in the early 1990s was generally loose fitting and colourful (unless you were a follower of the grunge look which meant colour was the enemy!). T-shirts were big, shorts were long, Skidz pants were a plenty and Air Jordans were a must. With fashion becoming more homogeneous between men and women, baseball caps were sported by everyone, turtlenecks could be seen in every corner of a city and the beginnings of a new era was on the horizon.
Grunge style became huge in the 90s - tartan shirts, ill-fitting jeans with authentic rips and tears were all the rage and those under 18 kept their hair long, wild and free. Big, fat cotton t-shirts had completely replaced the skinny, tight blended t-shirts and in 1993, 80s t-shirts were not ironic (as we deem them to be so now!), just out of style. The focus was on green canvas, military style jackets and Nike Air Jordans, which have recently made a massive comeback due to the popularity of athleisure. Interestingly, whilst this vessel of fashion was working its way through the early 90s, the rise of hip hop artists became increasingly mainstream. Due to this, the growing popularity of hip hop music amongst the suburban community in America led these urban styles to be seen everywhere.
In the late 90s, it was the rave culture that triggered a more glamorous side to the relaxed, t-shirt and jeans led fashion of the rest of the 90s. This is when name brand designers came back with a vengeance and solid designs that were introduced then managed to stand the test of time and are still fashionable today.
Similarly, the recession-weary shoppers in the 90s opted to buy clothes that were more timeless in style and would be fashionably relevant for a long period of time. Because of this, the jacket became key to daytime dressing. Chanel was a big influence in this and introduced loose versions of the famous Chanel jacket slit vertically at the hem. This style was then jumped on by Giorgio Armani and Calvin Klein.
Designers everywhere began to focus on the jacket as the key to contemporary dressing. Denim jackets and leather biker’s styles appealed to younger people and for the sophisticated woman, there were long, gently curved jackets from the major designers. A standard way for women to dress for the office was to wear one of these longer jackets over a skirt that stopped short of the knees (a classic look!). All kinds of combinations were possible with this new focus on jackets; such as jackets with trousers, leggings, or tights. Jackets with shorts also gained acceptance in some areas for more formal daytime wear, as women wore shorts to offices during the hotter summer weather.
Thankfully for our beloved designers, a revival of the interest in made-to-order clothing occurred in 1990 when women realised that it wasn’t more expensive than ready-to-wear clothing - this surprised many fashion analysts and drew other designers to New York City, following the success of Arnold Scaasi.
In 1991, top designers had successfully reintroduced the long skirt but in 1993 a significant segment of the fashion-conscious public rejected the long skirt. Stored reported that calf and ankle-length skirt sold well, but women simply weren’t wearing them. Women frequently chose short skirts or pants instead. This was the beginning of the fashion world beginning to lose touch with what women actually wanted to wear in 1993. Some designers introduced styles as diverse as ancient Greece and Victorian England, but these clothes were highly unsuited to the electronic age so designers turned to top models such as Kate Moss, Claudia Schiffer and Christy Turlington to try and sell their clothes. However, early observers noted that the top models look great in anything, but “normal” women wearing the same style found it difficult to achieve the same effect - much like how it is now!
The 90s offered a huge variety of styles and trends that have more recently made their way back into our wardrobes and look to be staying there for the foreseeable future. We have a fantastic collection of 90s designer vintage clothing from a range of those fabulous designers who made it through the tumultuous times of the 90s trends.
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