The insider

How to buy vintage designer, inside the capital’s first Prada store, and win an evening gown

1. www.thefrock.com A beautiful collection of high quality couture that includes Victorian, Edwardian, Flapper and Mid Century. It also houses private collections that come from the wardrobes of luminaries such as Lucille Ball, Marlene Dietrich and Sophia Loren. All arrive with a copy of a Letter of Authenticity from the consignor and a house Certificate of Authenticity. 2. www.vintageseekers.com A wider collection of classic finds categorised under fashion, jewellery, watches, original film posters, rare books and furniture. One can find anything from a 1960s Hermès brown crocodile bag to a 1980s Valentino Linen Shift Dress or 1961 Aston Martin DB4. 3. www.ifpocketstalked.com An easy to navigate site with a vast selection of designerwear that can be filtered by pricepoint, size and designer. There is also a special section for new items with tags for specialist collectors such as Lanvin’s collection for H&M if you are looking for something in particular. 4. www.vintagecouture.com With a designer blog shop showcasing new finds from the likes of Valentino, Chanel and Versace, and a features section that advises us how to style certain vintage products, this is a great site to browse if you are looking for inspiration. 5. www.itsvintagedarling.com A UK based vintage online boutique that delivers a high quality selection of vintage finds from the 1900s to the 1990s of dresses, shoes, accessories and homewear and includes a blog that keeps us up to date with all things vintage worldwide.