Ask any vintage fashion enthusiast and they'll admit that it's not just about achieving a look...au contraire mon petit chou, it's a full-blown fashion philosophy. "It is a reaction against the ubiquitous uniform of Western culture—a result of the virtually dictatorial influence of large multinational clothing chains on what we wear. Vintage gives us the real thing instead of copies of varying quality. It is also a reaction against consumer society with its culture of 'buy, use once, and discard.' But above all, it gives us the possibility of being unique," explains Jessica Clayton, an editorial fashion stylist and ardent devotee of vintage. "The woman who pulls the belt tight around her waist in a 50s gown is not the same kind of woman as the one who dons a 70s YSL tuxedo. The man who is crazy about 70s biker jackets is not the same as the one who seeks out English tweed classics, or smoking jackets of velvet or satin."
Putting her savvy insights to good use, Clayton recently penned VINTAGE PARIS COUTURE: The French Woman's Guide to Shopping. Perfect for flea market fanatics and vintage aficionados alike, "Vintage Paris Couture" covers more than one hundred exclusive boutiques, little-known shops, and stylish stores scattered throughout the different arrondissements of Paris. Insider finds abound, including Come On Eileen (vintage band tees and jean jackets), Guerrisol (the flea market of flea markets), and Yukiko (coveted vintage Chanel). Each location is described in detail - history, focus, pricepoints - along with photographs that capture its unique ambiance. Whether its the perfect LBD you're on the hunt for, or an embroidered Chinese robe, some stunning costume jewelry, or perhaps fabulous footwear - the breadth and variety of shopping opportunities is mindbogglingly stylish (and French!).
And since you know you love to shop 'til you drop, the book handily includes convenient bistros, cafes, and bars for those much-needed shopping breaks.
- Lesley Scott
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