Label Hunter: Even more brands to look for when buying vintage

When you're out picking for your next vintage haul, you'll be bound to come across unfamiliar labels and brands, and being able to spot a banging piece by an über sought after brand is a massive part of vintage and pre-loved shopping. We've put together a part two for our guide to our favourite brands to look out for when you're searching for more vintage pieces. Haven't read part one yet? Find it HERE

Patagonia

Founded in1973 by Californian rock climber Yvon Chouinard to create functional outdoor sportswear which boasts both form and function. Patagonia has gone from a nice sportswear brand to a globally recognised and highly sought label amongst stylish city dwellers and circles of streetwear enthusiasts, Patagonia has undeniably become a pillar of the 'American Vintage' genre.

Loved for their 90's-esque utilitarian aesthetic, keep an eye out for their teddybear fleece jackets in an array of neutral toned textiles, knitted beanies and waterproof rip-stop outerwear for pieces that will stand both the test of time and the rotations of trend cycles.

Blumarine

Italian fashion brand Blumarine has seen a resurgence over the past couple of years, mostly down to the y2k revival we're currently experiencing to such a degree that they appointed a new creative director in 2021who's re-imagined versions of the brands classic 90's pieces have been worn by starlets including Dua Lipa and Bella Hadid.

Their sensual and feminine pieces with an edgy twist hark back to the golden years of noughties pop culture; think Paris Hilton, Lindsey Lohan and Britney Spears. Blumarine are also known for their 90's adverts which featured the iconic faces of Adriana Lima and Monica Belucci, photographed by icons like Helmut Newton and Ellen von Unworth. If you love cute yet sexy pieces which are both easy to style and will make you feel like a 2004-era it girl then Blumarine is a label to keep your eye out for.

Belstaff

Founded in 1924 in Stoke-on-Trent, Belstaff is one of the UK's most important heritage brands, and were the first brands to use waxed cotton when they created waterproof jackets for Motorcyclists. They've since been rebranded as a luxury sportswear brand when they were bought out in 2011 but their classic outerwear will always be highly sought after pieces amongst pre-loved enthusiasts.

Often with hints of their motorbiking-wear origins, Belstaff jackets are perfect if you love slightly sporty pieces with tons of functional features which are made of hardwearing and durable textiles. Good condition Belstaff pieces can also fetch up to £200 on popular reselling platforms so it's always worth snapping them up if you spot one.

Diesel

One of the most iconic contemporary denim brands, Diesel was founded in 1978 by Renzo Rosso who started out by designing and making low-rise flared jeans which he sold to his friends. They've since grown into a major brand and their surreal and irreverent advertising campaigns are always instantly recognisable.

If you're a fan of late 20th century denim with ultra sexy cuts but also love ultra 90's leather outerwear, funky prints and quintessentially Italian silhouettes then Diesel is a label to keep your eye out for when searching for pre-loved picks. There's also a lot of it around so it's relatively easy to hunt down and you can find some pieces at bargain prices.

Fiorucci

Another Italian powerhouse brand, first founded in 1967 , Fiorucci brought the spirit of swinging London and Americana classics to the streets of Milan and Europe; known for their retro-futurist take on classic pieces and were instantly recognisable thanks to their Cherub logo. By the late 70's their New York shop was so popular it was dubbed the daytime Studio 54 and visited by members of Manhattan's Glitterati including Andy Warhol and Jackie Kennedy.

Despite going basically defunct come 2003, modern day interest in Fiorucci grew so much that the brand was re-launched in 2017. But the focus will always remain on pieces from the brands heyday which range from their logo-emblazoned t-shirts and ultra feminine denim jeans to kitschy handbags and chic swimwear. Annoyingly it was super cheap and easy to find on sites like eBay prior to it's relaunch, which as always has majorly driven up the prices of the OG Fiorucci pieces, but if you do come across anything then it's always worth buying, not only for the resale value but also so you can own a part of a truly great brand.

Trend Watch: Spring Summer 2022

The micro-trends you need to know about for the new year

New year new me, we all say as we will ourselves to get through the January blues. But with a new year comes a chance to refresh your look with a host of new trends, looks and inspo which comes around with every new season. Chillie London have rounded up our top picks for 2022 dressing.

Twee-revival

Remember 500 Days of Summer, Tumblr circa 2012, Skater skirts, Peter Pan collars and Kooky accessories, usually featuring some sort of owl, why was it always an owl? Whilst you might turn your nose up at the thought of dressing like you did ten years ago, fear not, this long-forgotten aesthetic is seeing a seriously stylish update for the 2020's.

Characterised by pieces full of whimsy, ala classic Wes Anderson flicks. But for a contemporary update swap slip on flats and loafers for heeled ballet pumps and platform lace-up brogues, garishly patterned tights for retro sporty socks, frilly collars for oversized puff sleeves and matronly pastel swing dresses for sleek A-line tea dresses. But don't be afraid to add in those elements of classic chintz: wool berets, woodland-inspired embroidery detailing, bows, polkadots and muted pastels.

Indie Sleaze

Another revival from the seemingly bygone 2010's, think of Indie Sleaze as Twee-Revival's slightly more edgy older cousin. A mix of 90's grunge with 80's glam-rock and 2010's hipster aesthetics. Think Kate Moss at Glasto, the Indie Sleaze poster girl Alexa Chung, Sky Ferreira and Daisy Lowe.

Emulate this trend with just rolled out of bed after a night on the tiles chic; smudged eyeliner, plaid shirts, ripped jeans, worn in cowboy boots paired with lurex knits, military-inspired embellishment, retro sportswear, relaxed men's tailoring and tarnished silver jewellery. An actual hangover is an optional accessory.

Mini Mania

Ever since Miu Miu's S/S 22 runway show all the way back in October the micro mini has been making a comeback in a big way. Combining 90's supermodel sex appeal and contemporary silhouettes - the micro mini may seem like a daunting piece to add to your repertoire, and if it's not your thing then no pressure, but if you're daring to make the snip to your hemline then read on.

Whilst we love Miu Miu's bare-legged khaki offering, the micro mini can be worn and styled in a multitude of ways to suit any style and stature. Not feeling like whipping your pins out all at once? tights are your best friend, layer a floor-sweeping duster over the top, or add knee high boots to cover up. Not a fan of the classic pleated school skirt shape? opt for an uber sexy mini dress, or even a longer skirt with a daringly high leg split.

Elevated Loungewear

Despite the UK's last formal lockdown lifting almost a year ago and work from home orders being all but scrapped, we're still not quite ready to abandon the art of comfortable dressing we've perfected over the last two years of Zoom calls, Teams meetings and Virtual Xmas drinks. Formal enough to pass at the office and on the commute, comfy enough to make you feel like you're lounging on the sofa and so chic you'll feel like you're walking the runway at Paris fashion week.

Think soft yet structured; gauzy linen, cozy fleece knits, wide leg trousers, silky two pieces and concealed elastic waistbands in neutral shades ranging from off white to head-to-toe black. We love to style our comfy staples with head-turning jewellery, sneakers and top it off with a relaxed trench coat.

Chillie Guide: How to re-wear party wear

When we're all making a conscious effort to reduce our carbon footprint, buy less and shop mindfully: the idea of buying partywear for a special event can seem at odds with the modern-day mantras of sustainable fashion. We get it, buying something to wear it once then never again is not only a financial drain, but also leaves you with a seriously overcrowded wardrobe. As party-season draws to a close, and those sequin pieces start getting thrown to the back of the closet, we've put together a handy guide to extend the life of your partywear.

Don't fear the repeated outfit

The phenomenon of being an 'outfit repeater' has been universally accepted as one of the biggest fashion faux passes for decades. But we've never really understood the hate? Because I like an outfit and want to get the most out of it suddenly I'm a pariah? No thanks. Clothes should be worn and used to their full potential, not taken out of rotation as soon as you're seen in public wearing it.

If you have a go-to 'party dress' that's still going strong, makes you look and most importantly feel absolutely fabulous then we say re-wear it. If you wan't to make it less obvious you're wearing the same dress as last year then change up your jewellery, shoes or make-up for an updated feel.

When in doubt, style it out...

We believe in the power in good styling, and the potential to totally transform a single garment with the right accompanying look. You can use this method to switch-up your party-wear and make just as fabulous for casual looks.

Velour body con dress, feels too formal? Pair it with chunky boots, a slouchy mohair cardigan and a natural make-up look. 80's glimmering sequin extravaganza blouse looks too fancy? Style it with wide-leg mom jeans, pointed toe mules and low-key gold jewellery. Killer Jerry Halll-esque two-piece tailored suit seems like a bit much? Wear it with a vintage band-tee, suede sneakers and hair accessories for a perfectly casual yet chic look.

Don't Bin it!

I know, sometimes you can just get stuck on a garment, it's not the vibe; it doesn't make you feel fab, it doesn't fit or it's just not you anymore. We get it, and guess what... it's totally fine to give up on a garment when you've exhausted all your other options. But if you're getting rid then do it the right way.

Don't like it but can see someone else loving it? List your wares on the plethora of marketplace apps and platforms at your fingertips; eBay, Depop, Vestiare and Vinted, not only will you get some extra spending money but you'll be extending the life of your garment with a new owner.

And when you're in the market for something new, try and look for pre-loved pieces. And you you can start with Chillie London!

While you're at it... Shop our Partywear trend edit: