Vintage Selection 31: A Blast from the Past

Jan. 24–28:  VINTAGE SELECTION 31: FASHION AND DESIGN FAIR. Stazione Leopolda, Viale Fratelli Rosselli, 5. Open 10 am – 9 pm.  Admission:  €5.

Old-time fashion is the star attraction at Vintage Selection. The fair is a creative laboratory that serves as a venue for big names in couture to showcase the trendiest of garments from the past to buyers, fashion designers and the general public. Last winter’s exhibition welcomed 13,500 visitors hailing from as far as the United States, Germany, and Japan.

In partnership with the event is Pitti Filati, a highly-anticipated international trade fair held at the Fortezza da Basso which will feature yarns for the textile industry from January 24-26. The event is not to be missed for stylists and fashionistas alike charmed by the research that goes into the creation of fibers such as silk and cashmere.

The theme of the 31st edition of Vintage Selection is “The Next Past,” referring to the desire for reboots and prequels of classic TV shows as well as a passion for styles from previous decades. The visitor can browse through clothing from the ’70s, ‘80s, and ’90s reminiscent of Netflix cult favorites such as Stranger Things, Glow, and Narcos. In addition to denim jackets and grunge-look flannels, vintage collectors can find nostalgic design objects and accessories on display by exhibitors both from Florence and around the world.

Florence’s fabulous vintage boutiques, including the new Giratempo Vintage and the extensive Street Doing Vintage, will be among those displaying racks of retro goodness.  Expect to find an incomparable selection of Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Moschino, and other Italian and international high-fashion couture labels from the 1930’s to the early ‘90’s for men and women. Blouses, pullovers and other offerings come in all shapes and sizes.

Peruse through jewelry, with original Dior, Ferré, Trifari, and Coro earrings, pins, and rings, as well as rows and rows of timeless designer sunglasses. The men’s section has a variety of coats and hats, but husbands, fathers, and beaus will also be impressed by the tie line-up: Moschino, Fendi, Gianni Versace, and Trussardi, among others.

The menagerie of rare items present will furthermore include a selection of books, paintings, and prints by Agenda Vintage; designer bags and accessories by Vintageart Bologna, handmade knitwear by Elisa Catini – La Maglia New Tempo, and vintage military clothes and accessories from PX Vintage.

A special section called Remake will be dedicated to old-school garments that have been reinvented and transformed into new artsy pieces using innovative design techniques. Participating exhibitors in Remake include Street Chic, Vintage & Co, and Maiko Unique. Guests will have the opportunity to directly purchase the customized creations as well as clothing presented by each store.

Beyond its celebration of vintage fashion culture, the market will feature a live band performance by Madrid Hot Jazz Band and a jazz and blues dance show by Tuballoswing. DJ sets playing soundtracks from quintessential ’80s and ’90s movies will fill the lounge area during happy hour for the ultimate blast-from-the-past experience.