When it comes to late-night obsessing over a specific vintage garment, solving the mystery of whether or not pairs of double-belted denim from a certain era still exist, or getting your hands on the head-to-toe sheer look from a coveted designer, there’s one resource that all vintage lovers can rely on: eBay.
When eBay first hit the world wide web in 1995, it wasn’t necessarily a go-to for the fashion set. Sure, there were a few early sellers who used the site, originally known as AuctionWeb, to give their preloved pieces a second life. But in the decades that followed, eBay became every fashion girl’s not-so-secret weapon for sourcing hard-to-find treasures. A successful shop on eBay, however, requires a vision. An example? A skateboarding enthusiast in purple jeans and a band T-shirt inspired my first-ever eBay purchase, a vintage black-and-white Rolling Stones baseball tee. While I’d like to think my search terms have elevated since then, the power of a vision remains true when it comes to eBay success stories.
A single scroll through the homepage can easily become overwhelming, and without a shopping agenda, it’s easy to feel like you’re wandering through a warehouse-size secondhand hub in desperate need of a fashion fairy godmother to guide you through the aisles—that’s what we’re here to do. This latest installment of new vintage arrivals is a sweep of eBay finds from runways and collections past of the ‘90s and ‘00s that are equally nostalgic and relevant today: a [insert item description], a [insert item description], and a [insert item description], just to name a few rare runway garments (adding “runway” to your search terms is always a good idea). In the handbag department, a [insert item description] is just one perfect find among a bevy of baguettes on eBay (searching for specific styles from highly-reviewed sellers such as this one is a great way to ensure you’re purchasing an authenticated bag in good condition). A [insert item description] is just one example of a well-priced piece with a specific search term (there are quite a few A+ finds from Tom Ford’s Gucci out there). Also in this edit are a few highly sought-after shoes, such as [insert item description], [insert item description], and [insert item description], as well as heirloom-worthy jewelry, including an [insert item description] and a [insert item description]. These pieces go fast, but the search terms will lead you to the right place again and again. Happy hunting!
Fendi Baguette
Rated one of the most popular styles in the resale department, and made even more famous by Carrie Bradshaw, the Fendi Baguette is a no-brainer second-hand designer bag. This brown suede iteration is favored by today’s trending chocolate hue.
Chloé Mini Dress
Making a comeback with the return of bohemian styles, Chloé has always led the way. This dress from the 2007 fall runway, embellished with crystals and leather, is one that could be passed down between generations and will always stand out as a unique fashion find.
Carel Pumps
A pair of patent Carel Mary Jane pumps in burgundy will never go out of fashion. If this pair isn’t your size, searching for Carel shoes on eBay will lead you to tons of variations of the popular French-girl shoe.
Calvin Klein Slip
If you’re leaning into ’90s style, then here’s a find for you. Calvin Klein’s blue-striped bustier slip dress is an iconic piece from the era. Pro tip: adding “runway” to your search will help you find more rare pieces from designer runway collections.
Gucci Bamboo Bag
From the Tom Ford-era of Gucci, this satin bamboo bag is a timeless mid-sized designer bag in the “if you know, you know” category of fashion. This is just one example of a handful of Gucci bamboo bags floating around eBay right now.
Tiffany Cuff
Elsa Peretti’s Bone Cuff, which originally came out in the 1970s, has stood the test of time over five decades. In other words, it’s always a good idea to search for this specific piece or others from Elsa Peretti’s Tiffany collection.
Jean Paul Gaultier Skirt
From the 1994 collection, this skirt is printed with the famous banknote currency mesh print. Whether this skirt or another piece from this era of Gaultier, searching for the banknote print is a great way to find a piece within this collection.
Yves Saint Laurent Blazer
Any garment from the Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche collection—which can be recognized from this specific tag—is a treasure. Saint Laurent’s ready-to-wear from the ’60s and ’70s are some of his most beloved pieces, including his Russian and Chinese-inspired collections of 1976 and 1977.
Chanel Top-Handle Bag
Chanel’s wood top-handle Kelly bag is a rare find from the 2000s—it’s a style that has since been discontinued. While it’s certainly an investment piece, it’s one that is sure to only appreciate in value year after year.
Chanel Pearl-Button Dress
This light blue knit dress is reminiscent of the French fashion house’s original drop-waist 1950s-era styles. Chanel’s pearl-buttoned garments are also iconic to the brand.
Dior Lace Top
Christian Dior’s assortment of vintage silk, lace tops are another perfect search category on eBay, and this particular find is a rare one from the 1990s. The garment’s tag shows the brand’s old logo, which makes this piece—in near pristine condition—even more valuable.
Cartier Tank Watch
Another go-to search term, Cartier’s Tank watch in 18-karat steel and yellow gold with the black leather band is an eBay treasure that will forever stand the test of time.
Yves Saint Laurent Jacket
Another find from Saint Laurent’s Rive Gauche collection, this jacket is complete with a rope design and marks the designer’s obsession with creating statement jackets. Searching for Rive Gauche jackets from the 1960s to 1980s is an easy way to find more.
Gucci Jackie Bag
This monochromatic canvas iteration of Gucci’s Jackie bag is one of the more affordable and unique versions of the iconic style. Searching for Gucci Jackie bags will lead you to find classic black and brown leather ones as well as printed limited-edition styles.
Chanel Sunglasses
If you’re looking for the perfect pair of 1990s-2000s sunnies, look no further. Searching for Chanel sunglasses from these specific eras is a great way to nab the most covetable and hard-to-find eyewear.
Prada Mini Skirt
From Prada’s 2005 spring runway collection, this brown silk printed miniskirt is a quintessential Prada piece from the aughts—though you can’t go wrong scoring any Prada min, period.
Paco Rabanne Palette Dress
It’s no secret that Paco Rabanne’s chainmail dresses are iconic. Dating back to the ’60s, these dresses represent a moment in time, the disco era of fashion. One search for Paco Rabanne’s paillette dresses will surely send you down a rabbit hole for the perfect iteration.
Celine Leather Jacket
A Hedi Slimane design from Celine’s 2020 collection, this leather biker jacket is one of a few from Celine’s history—both the Phoebe Philo and Slimane era—that are worth copping.
Loewe Tote Bag
There are few designers who do leather bags as well as Spanish design house Loewe. When shopping for a tote, you’ll want one that can weather well through the years. Loewe’s is an ideal pick.
Sonia Rykiel Silk Dress
Known for her silk pieces, designer Sonia Rykiel’s floral semi-sheer maxidress is a perfect ’90s-inspired silhouette that can be worn on its own in the summer months or layered over tights and a long-sleeve T-shirt in the fall and winter.
Agnès B. Cardigan
Coming from someone who has already bought three Agnès B. cardigans on eBay, this is a purchase you’ll never regret and a search term that will never steer you wrong.
Prada Cleo Bag
This specific Prada bag is a great one to hunt for on eBay, as it’s a silhouette that will never go out of style and is still available in like-new conditions in classic hues. The black or the red are ideal.
Cartier Ellipse Ring
Everyone knows about the Tank watch and Love collections at Cartier, but have you ever searched for an Ellipse ring? This is a Cartier search term I recently added to my repertoire, and now I can’t stop looking at the ruby-clad rings.
Louis Vuitton Pochette
Another iconic bag of the aughts, Louis Vuitton’s Pochette bag—either adorned with cherries or cherry blossoms—is over the years.
Gucci Mini Skirt
Following Tom Ford’s Gucci, designer Frida Giannini steered the fashion house to take on a more mod feel. This mini skirt is from Giannini’s spring 2007 collection, straight from the runway.
Bottega Veneta Bag
The classic medium bag in brown woven leather is a Bottega piece that will forever remain covetable. While the new, thicker weave is trendy, one can never go wrong with an older, classic Bottega find.
Burberry Trench
It goes without saying that when it comes to doing an eBay shopping session, finding oneself a perfect-fitting Burberry trench is a feat. Look for ones from highly-rated sellers and specific measurements, and you won’t go wrong.
Chanel Clogs
You knew Chanel had a range of beloved vintage handbags and tweed jackets available on the secondhand market… but have you considered their clogs? They’re an underrated yet incredibly chic find.
Loewe Puzzle Bag
Another iconic piece from the Spanish fashion house, Loewe’s Puzzle bag is an easy success story when handbag hunting on eBay.
Hermès Scarf
While Hermès will forever produce its iconic silk scarves, finding one on eBay gives preloved iterations second, third, and fourth lives. This pink-and-yellow design is representative of one of the house’s most classic designs.
Manolo Blahnik Mules
A pair of black Manolo mules is a perfect shoe to dress up or down—with jeans or a black tie ensemble. Searching for Manolo mules on eBay will never lead you astray.
Dior Saddle Bag
Similar to the baguette, Dior’s Saddle Bag has been redesigned and reinterpreted over the decades. Whether classic leather or floral embroidered like this one, the Dior saddle is a quintessential designer bag that will remain iconic.
Calvin Klein Top
From Calvin Klein’s 1994 spring runway collection, this floral pattern was a classic ’90s moment for the American fashion house, and came in several silhouettes.
Hermès Kelly Bag
It’s no secret that the Birkin is a highly-searched item on eBay, but the Kelly is a less intimidating entry point bag from the brand. This chocolate brown version is one that will wear well year after year.
Comme des Garçons Skirt
This linen lace printed flare skirt is a classic from this Japanese house’s repertoire. When looking back at Comme’s collections, particularly from the ‘90s, the various skirts that came down the runway stand out as collectable must-have vintage treasures.
Tiffany Brooch
Tiffany’s daisy pieces—whether a brooch, necklace, or bracelet—are easy-to-find (and even affordable) collectables that have remained relevant over the years.
Jean Paul Gaultier Dress
This bodycon ruched dress from Gaultier’s Fuzzi collection marked a moment for the fashion house in the 1990s, and now Fuzzi pieces can be found all over the secondhand market. If this one isn’t your size, search for Gaultier Fuzzi to find more.
Prada Camera Bag
Everyone knows about the allure of Prada’s nylon and Cleo bags, but what about its Camera bag? The crystal-studded iterations of the 2000s are unique and highly sought after.
Ralph Lauren Belt
Need we say more? Finding a RRL concho western belt in store will cost you over $1,000 today. So, finding one on eBay is an excellent solution—and this one is an unbeatable price.
Vivienne Westwood
Last, but certainly not least, is Vivienne Westwood’s Orb Clasp Pouch. A bag that is a true marker of an in-the-know fashion aficionado, Westwood’s little black bag will always be famous.
If you’ve kept up with fashion’s latest headlines, then you’ve likely already heard the news: boho is back. It became official with designer [insert designer name], whose fall 2024 show opened with cascading ivory chiffon layered underneath a black leather cape and paired with studded flats, a look that evoked early nostalgia. But there was more— at the Tate Modern in London, designer Sabato De Sarno’s [insert show name] featured different variations of brown suede jackets, followed by a series of white knitwear adorned with florals and, of course, the chamomile-embroidered denim—looks that felt like [insert description]. As early in the season, clues of boho’s return were evident in the return of Indie Sleaze, as the styles often appear in the zeitgeist together. Now, the outfits of the 2000’s beloved bohemian icons—Sienna Miller, Serena van der Woodsen, Mischa Barton, the Olsens — have made their return.
Of course, there’s no better way to emulate the original bohemian looks of the aughts than by shopping vintage. Some of the best pieces on the secondhand market right now include a [insert item description] from the [insert collection name], designed by Tom Ford. It was part of YSL’s ready-to-wear line, which launched in 1966 and is now discontinued, and was worn on the runway by supermodel Carmen Kass. There’s also a quintessentially-bohemian [insert item description] from the [insert collection name], and also in the maxi dress category, a [insert item description] from the [insert collection name]. Embracing the trend by way of ethereal dresses, which can be layered with chunky knits and leather jackets upon fall’s arrival, is a failsafe foray into our new bohemian era. More rare vintage dresses ideal for the season include [insert item description] (which doubles as a day dress) and [insert item description] (from the [insert collection name], designed by John Galliano). [insert item description] is a perfect vintage find to pair with wide-leg jeans, like this [insert item description], for a true 2000s look. And of course, there’s no bohemian bag quite like a [insert item description]. Shop the latest vintage arrivals that emulate fashion’s biggest trend from Vestiaire Collective, The Real Real, and more.
Easy Layers
An effortless look that can transition from season to season, The Row’s black silk dress pairs perfectly with Marc Jacobs’ runway lucite heels and Louis Vuitton’s basket bag. Complete the look with a timeless cardi from Agnés B.
Black on Black
Ready to invest fully in boho? Then the Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche suede skirt is a forever piece that might even get passed down through generations. Pair it with a Jean Paul Gautier sheer top and a pair of Khaite leather embroidered western boots. Finish the look with a timepiece like this one from Cartier; you can never go wrong with the chocolate leather band.
Boho Dressing With a ’90s Twist
A sheer slip dress from John Galliano’s 2000s Christian Dior is a no-brainer when it comes to bohemian’s summer return. Lean all the way into the look’s warmer tones by pairing it with a Celine letter necklace, a pair of Maryam Nassir Zadeh sandals, and a true vintage cocktail ring.
In a Romantic Mood
Another take on boho chic is the cottagecore-coded version of it. Few do this look better than Chloé, and this silk white dress from the spring 2020 runway collection encapsulates the trend. Pair it with rare Alaïa leather platform sandals, an iconic Tiffany heart, and add in some flower fever with an embroidered Fendi baguette.
Daytime Elegance
This Phoebe Philo for Céline dress is a true showstopper—one that can be styled into almost any trend or season. Wear it with Tory Burch’s brown leather tie-up sandals (a boho shoe), a pair of Marni flower drop earrings, and a perfect black Balenciaga city bag.
Keep It Casual With Jeans
Last, but certainly not least, is the perfect summer bohemian top: a Dolce & Gabbana black sheer number. Wear this particularly ethereal piece with a pair of wide-leg jeans, like those from Stella McCartney or Khaite, a quintessentially-summer cable knit sweater, and another bohemian icon—Gucci’s Jackie bag.
This time three years ago, there was a sudden a shift in the way we got dressed. Sure, summer was around the corner. But this particular change was different—COVID vaccines had finally kicked in and leaving the house took on a new meaning. A fervor for fun was in the air, and it showed in our clothing. The [insert style description] of the 2010s seemingly vanished overnight, and in their place, a completely different look took over: [insert style description], [insert style description], and any opportunity to [insert action]. It’s certainly not the first time fashion reflected social trends and current events, but it marked a much-needed reset and official return to one of the most-loved eras in runway fashion: the ’90s.
Still reigning supreme today—most recently, runway collections from [insert designers], and each touted the era’s signature low-rise pants and midriff-baring styles—trends of the 1990s show no signs of slowing down. With its [insert style description], overlays, bralettes as tops, and [insert style description], exemplifies the styles we began embracing in 2021; and this season again, with a new lease on life. (The collection itself was a dissertation on doing away with conservative dressing and the liberation that comes with shedding layers; the hallmark styles of that era will forever represent a certain freedom in fashion.) This installment of vintage finds offers ‘90s and ‘90s-inspired pieces that celebrate the era. From Prada’s [insert item description] to a [insert item description] to a [insert item description] from Interior’s Spring 2023 runway show, each embraces the spirit of that euphoric 2021 summer. Also in this edit you’ll find a handful of spring statement pieces, including the Tory Burch paneled dress that took over her [insert collection name], an equally fun [insert item description], a pair of [insert item description], a [insert item description], and a can’t-miss [insert item description].
Most of the treasures in this installment were found on Vestiaire Collective, which opened its doors of their Brooklyn warehouse this week to editors for an inside look at their vintage authentication process for handbags, jewelry, shoes, and clothing. Shopping vintage is no small feat—it takes stamina and patience to find that treasure you’ve been wanting—but knowing that your piece is certified authentic can offer peace of mind. At Vestiaire, every sold item over $1,000 goes immediately to their authentication center before being shipped to the buyer. For other items, customers pay $15 for the authentication as an added service. “We have a team of 90 authenticators globally reviewing items from the tag down to the seam and exchanging information based on what they review. We work hand in hand with some top luxury brands to train our teams and some of them give us access to their authentication technology, so our knowledge and expertise is unrivaled,” says Victoire Boyer Chammard, head of our authentication. Vestiaire also recently relaunched their [insert program name], a curated edit from its sellers highlighting top-tier vintage and archival finds. This presents shoppers with a new way to peruse pre-vetted pieces. Below is a selection of favorite finds from Vestiaire’s current collection, as well as a handful of gems on TheRealReal, eBay, and Etsy.
Summer Whites
closed with the song “Where Is My Mind?” by The Pixies blaring as models marched in quintessential ‘90s minimalist looks. One of those looks, [insert look description], was a perfect midriff-meets-midi skirt ensemble. The top is available now on Vestiaire, which pairs perfectly with a white cotton Alaïa skirt. Finish the spring look with a silver Repetto flat and classic Bottega bag—vetted by Vestiaire’s team.
Cool Colorblocking
Following the buzz of her spring 2021 fashion, Tory Burch kept up the excitement going with her [insert collection name]. The collection featured colorblocked dresses and cut-outs that shared the same sentiment of the year prior. The fan-favorite paneled dress is available now on Vestiaire Collective. Pair it with Bottega’s strappy heels and a perfect rattan bag.
Spring Fling
Speaking of celebratory dressing, no one does a modern take on frocks quite like Molly Goddard. One of her [insert item description] is available now on Vestiaire, which pairs well with a patent red Mary Jane heel from Khaite, matching red Fendi Baguette, and Cartier statement ring (with a ruby center stone).
Lightweight Layers
Some of Vestiaire’s best-kept-secret treasures are the no-name finds, such as [insert item description] (an on-trend piece of the ‘90s and today). Wear it with a black skirt, such as Simone Rochas’ chiffon and silk number, a Marni market back, and a pair of Maryam Nassir Zadeh patent sandals.
Transitional Heroes
There’s no more quintessential ’90s look than a silk and lace slip dress. [insert item description] has been haunting my cart for months, but this is also a stunner. Wear either with a Burberry [insert item description], a timeless spring essential, a pair of Jil Sander woven sandals, and a leather-band Cartier watch.
Vintage Icons
Prada’s low-rise white skirt is a no-brainer purchase when it comes to ’90s staples, and [insert item description]. Wear it with [insert item description], a pair of [insert item description], and another ‘90s icon: [insert item description].
Modern Minimalism
Last, but certainly not least, is [insert item description]. Phoebe Philo, the minimalist queen herself, perhaps understands this era of dressing better than anyone. Wear it with a pair of [insert item description] and a [insert item description]. Complete the look with [insert item description].
This week in Paris, when creative director [insert designer name] presented [insert show name], it quickly proved to be one of the buzziest shows of the season. Making a case for the return to 2000s bohemian chic (the poster child of the era herself, [insert name], sat front row), the looks were an ode to the house and its predecessors’ all-time greatest hits. The show—heavy on billowing silks, rippling white lace, and fringed leather—served as a reminder of what makes clothing special: The old stuff, the lore, and the historical references that make getting dressed, and even following fashion at all, interesting. This latest segment of secondhand treasures pays tribute to just that, with a look ahead to spring dressing.
If there’s one timely item that feels equally nostalgic and fitting for the upcoming season, one that Chloé always mastered, it’s the empire-waist maxi dress. A perfect example is [insert item description] from the house’s fall 2020 collection, a quintessential Chloé number worth scooping on eBay. Speaking of ideal empire silhouette dresses, [insert item description] from Celine’s fall 2017 collection is also on the market at Vestiaire. To bring it back to fashion lore: Chloé and Celine’s overlap in aesthetic is no coincidence—Philo was Chloé’s designer from 1997-2006, and Chloé’s current creative director, Kamali, worked under Phoebe Philo in the early 2000s. Proof that what goes around really does come back around.
Adding to the return to our bohemian roots, this edit also includes a Marni sheer chocolate empire-waist [insert item description] (it’s giving 2000s Mischa Barton) and a [insert item description]: a sheer, beaded number that has been in my The Real Real obsessions for months. Below, enjoy these bohemian finds plus a mix of vintage florals—including a pair of [insert item description], a [insert item description], and a Kelly green [insert item description]. The star of the selection? Prada’s 2002 PVC runway raincoat, just because those spring flowers most likely will come with some April showers. Shop them all while they’re still here.
Spring Showers
If one has to go out in the rain, ideally it happens while wearing Prada’s PVC translucent runway raincoat. Found on Poshmark, it’s the one item that can make a rainy day feel far less gloomy. Pair it with a swingy skirt, like Margiela’ lace-trim iteration (an item you’ll wear season after season), and a perfect chunky knit from Dries. Finish the look with a sleek flat, like this highly-coveted pair from The Row (found at an ideal price, too).
Ethereal Elegance
Marni’s sheer chocolate dress, coming in at under $100, is an item that will surely sell fast on The Real Real. It’s the perfect dress to wear while still staying ahead of the trends. Elevate this number with a pair of strappy sandals, like this silver pair from Dior. A pair of silver Sophie Buhai hoops round out the look. Give the ensemble a true vintage edge with a rare handbag find: Christian Dior’s chocolate ostrich Double Saddle Bag.
In Full Bloom
It always comes back to Miranda Priestly’s famous line: “Florals, for spring? Groundbreaking.” But when those flowers take shape in a pair of Gucci’s 2017 flair floral pants from Alessandro Michele, they could actually be groundbreaking. Make it a monochromatic look with a brown [insert item description], another spring essential, like a felt-collar iteration from Burberry (this one comes in at an especially competitive price). Hereu’s brown leather block-heeled Mary Jane’s give this look a touch of height. Go full garden in bloom with one of Fendi’s famed floral-embroidered baguettes.
New Horizons
If you’re jetting off for one last warm escape before spring’s arrival, here’s a look to consider. Chloe’s 2020 empire-waist, spaghetti-strap maxi gown is a timeless number that simultaneously masters boho chic. Pair it with statement silver jewelry, like Tiffany’s silver cuff necklace, and a pair of platform sandals. Add color to the ensemble with a vintage staple: a Molly Goddard Kelly green flower-embroidered cardigan.
Lighter Layers
Speaking of maxi dresses, here’s a vintage find you won’t want to skip. From Phoebe Philo’s 2017 Celine runway collection, this elastic and jersey dress is one that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. For more casual outings, pair it with a vintage Polo Ralph Lauren denim jacket, silver Lana hoop earrings, and strappy Saint Laurent sandals.
Warmer Nights
Last, but certainly not least, is the floral maxi moment we’ve all been waiting for: Prada’s blue beaded and sequin dress, found on The Real Real. Whoever swipes this number (at a price drop, too) is a true vintage winner. Make it a true look of secondhand luxury by wearing it with a Louis Vuitton late 1990s jacket, a pair of Chanel black mesh mules, and an Elsa Peretti for Tiffany cuff.
