6 amazing vintage accessories perfect for summer 2013

As you know, I’m a thrifty kinda gal and don’t like to buy a whole new wardrobe each season when sometimes just a few key accessories can see us through a season. As Summer 2013 bounds into view, I’ve asked one of my favourite vintage stores Mela Mela to put together some top-tips and Summer picks to get your wardrobe looking sunny and on-trend for the season. And vintage fashion is so much more wearable for longer so remember – a vintage handbag’s not just for summer: it’s for life! 😉

1. The Handbag – 1950s/60s crushed leather bag in coral red (below). 

Although the current trend for micro bags is strong, when it comes to picking a bag that will accompany you on every summertime adventure you’ll probably want something a bit bigger. As well as your usual essentials; phone, wallet, diary, keys and lippy, the Summer calls for your camera and film (if we’re going properly vintage!), a bottle of water, sun cream, sunnies, a good novel and a light cardigan just in case the breeze picks up. That’s why I would pick something a little roomier for my Summer handbag. Something in a statement colour such as this deliciously fun coral red is perfect. Accessories were made to be seen and this delightful item is unspeakably vintage. It also would bring some vibrancy to the current monochrome fashions. Your friends will all be hankering after it!

2. The Hat – 1950s hat with net and floral detail (above).

Let’s face it, in Britain the sunny days are often few and far between. So to keep the bounce in our Summer its up to us to brighten things up a bit. This pretty little hat beams with vibrant yellows and lush greens, and its floral detail looks very seasonal – and is perfect for summer weddings too. So don’t reserve hats for winter! Well-dressed hair will really finish off your vintage outfit to perfection.

3. The Shoes – 1950s/60s peep-toe shoes in glitter and gold (below).

As much as I love a colossal heel, there are times when they just aren’t practical and frolicking about on a Summer’s day probably calls for something a little more manageable. Something like this gorgeous little peep-toe shoe is ideal with its mid-heel. The open-toe and strappy detail make it perfect for the warmer days and the precious gold detailing make it unique and pretty. Vintage womens shoes are a sure fire way to add a bit of panache to any outfit.

4. The Parasol – Victorian Parasol with ivory silk and black veil (above).

There is something devastatingly elegant about a well-dressed woman with a parasol. It adds a picturesque grace to any outfit, as well as having the practical benefit of keeping the sun off your face. Protecting your skin from sun damage is something we all know is necessary, so the parasol seems the most refined way to do it. Although this parasol has a strong vintage vibe, the monochrome colour scheme also means that it’s bang on trend for Spring/Summer 2013. What more could a girl want?

5. The Shoulder bag – 1950s Beige Canvas Bag with Striking Floral Motif (below).

If you only want one bag to last the Summer then picking a statement piece like the coral red crushed leather may limit your wardrobe choices a little. Instead choose something like this canvas bag with it’s vibrant multicoloured adornments. This bag is spacious enough to pack your Summer essentials, can be carried or worn over the body (ideal for a spot of vintage cycling) and offers a plethora of pretty colours in the detailing that you can easily pick out and compliment in your outfit. 

6. The Slipper – 1960s mint green satin court shoe (above).

These low heeled elegant shoes are ideal for summer weddings and more luxurious days out. They would look beautiful with a floral tea length 50s swing dress, and would finish off any feminine frock with sophisticated finesse. The cool mint green colour would work well with pastels, neutrals or perhaps a striking buttercup yellow. 

I hope you’ve enjoyed this insight into vintage accessories and would like to join me in thanking Mela Mela Vintage for their professional style advice for summer 2013. Mela Mela Vintage is a vintage boutique located in Teddington, Southwest London who have an amazing array of vintage summer dresses, jewellery & accessories which spans century of fashion. If you can get down to the store, please check them out – or you can always shop for their retro goodies online!

Other vintage fashion articles

• Adding no-sew pockets to a charity shop t-shirt (cassiefairy.com)
• Button up! Upcycling vintage buttons into jewellery (cassiefairy.com)
• Making a skirt from a dress using vintage patterns (cassiefairy.com)

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