Natasha Lester's Top 5 Winter Fashion Essentials

As I’ve committed to only buying vintage and second-hand clothing this year in an attempt to do something about the massive problem fashion waste causes, my essentials are all from another era. I have thrown a pair of shoes into the mix, which aren’t vintage, but everything else is a one of a kind. 

If you’re keen to find your own winter vintage essentials, hop onto Instagram and search vintage hashtags and you’ll find lots of amazing online shops. Be warned - it is addictive!

Follow Natasha's Year of Vintage on Instagram at @myyearofvintage

1. Red Cape
Little Red Riding Hood was definitely onto something! I bought the red cape you can see in the phots from one of my favourite online vintage stores. It’s from the 1960s and I’m sure its original owner must either have been fastidious or else they never wore it because the colour is still vibrant and bold. I throw it on over everything to keep me warm and to add a pop of colour to winter.

2. High Waisted Trousers
I know we’ve become all too used to seeing low slung waistlines over the last few years but try a high waist and you’ll never go low again! The trousers I’m wearing in the photo are from yet another favourite vintage store and are unworn deadstock from the 1940s. Warm and comfy and  they go really well with the sock-boots that are so ubiquitous at the moment.

3. Golden Goose Sneakers
Suffice to say, I live in these. I wear them everyday to work (up the stairs to my home office!), I always wear them on planes and I love them with everything from jeans to floaty floral dresses.

4. It’s All About The Sleeves
What can I say about this dress other than - sleeves! From Devore Vintage in Melbourne, this 1970s deep brown dress with amazing bishop sleeves has been my staple for author events over the last month or so, and will continue to be, well into winter. It’s probably about the only thing in my wardrobe I don’t wear with the Golden Goose sneakers!

5. Mesh Collar
This 1970s mesh collar is by Whiting and Davis, who’ve been in the business of mesh purse and jewellery making since 1876. It’s a completely stunning piece and I love that I can wear it with everything from a cashmere knit by day to an evening dress by night. It’s the kind of piece that means you didn’t have to worry to much about what you’re wearing with it, because the focus is on the collar, rather than anything else.