How to Add Vintage Lingerie into Your Wardrobe: Retro Vision for a Modern Self

Old lingerie? You can't be serious.

We are. And you'll find out why if you read on. 

Vintage lingerie stands out in a sea of mass-produced basics. It’s a chance to wear lingerie styles with character—silky textures, intricate details, and a quality nod to the past. Whether you’re drawn to vintage bras for their structure or slips for their flow, it’s about feeling connected to something unique. 

Vintage lingerie gives you an escape from the quantity-over-quality, often tacky and way overdone aesthetics. In so many ways, adding some vintage pieces to your wardrobe is the perfect way to be yourself, not only how the industry imagines you. 

They Don't Make 'em Like They Used To

No they don't. It goes beyond just style and design, but that is a huge part of loving and wearing vintage pieces. Want to know where the quarter-satin and lace demi-up cups that are EVERYWHERE right now came from? Look to the 90's. The layering of elements? That's from 80's decadence. Natural fibers? 20 and 30's (and again in the 70's). Cutting edge synthetics that allow for envelope-pushing designs? 40's and 50's.

So much of what lingerie is now is really just a re-imagining of the past with higher profit margins. Jumping into the source material for the current trends has a feel of genuine authenticity. They aren't copies; you're wearing the genuinely new thing (just years late to the party). 

Ease Into Vintage Lingerie with Familiar Pieces

Start with something simple that mirrors what you already love. Layering vintage lingerie styles keeps them practical for daily wear. A vintage silk camisole or a soft slip is perfect for beginners dipping into vintage lingerie. Even vintage bras with delicate lace can peek out under an open jacket for a stylish twist.

Try something that isn't too big of a leap for you to enjoy and actually wear. Turning your closet into a lingerie museum isn't the goal here. Starting small lets you explore without overhauling your routine or wardrobe. 

Enjoy Vintage Lingerie for Yourself

There’s a quiet thrill in wearing vintage lingerie, even if it’s just for you. Vintage lingerie brings a timeless allure to your closet. It’s not about showing off—it’s about savoring the feel of vintage lingerie fabrics and the craftsmanship of retro styles. That’s the magic of vintage lingerie: It’s your little secret.

Find a piece that YOU love, that you want because there's something about it that draws you in. Sure, it's great for showing off to a partner or lighting a photoshoot on fire, but lingerie is first for you. Going vintage means your catalog of options is that much bigger, and you deserve all those options and choices. 

Care for Your Retro Lingerie Pieces

Adding some vintage doesn't need to be a burden, but a little care goes a long way. Vintage lingerie does need reasonably gentle handling to stay beautiful. These pieces can be 40, 50 or more years old and keeping them in the game takes a little intention. Hand-wash with a mild detergent and lay flat to dry.

Skip any harsh chemicals, but washing them in a mesh lingerie bag in a cold cycle, delicate washer cycle is perfectly fine. Store your vintage lingerie flat or draped over a hanger to maintain its shape. A little extra effort in care goes a long way to helping your vintage lingerie stick around.

Go Forth and Be Boldly You

Branching out from what you know, your comfortably norms or your tried-and-true habits can be incredibly freeing. Exciting. Addicting. It's OK if not every piece resonates or excites you; there are decades of styles and designs to choose from once you go vintage. And that makes it hard to ever want to come back from it. 

Ready to try vintage lingerie? Start with one piece—maybe a slip or a vintage bra—and see how it fits into your life. If you have questions, reach out to Billy!