In recent times, vintage and archival fashion have emerged as symbols of refined taste and exclusivity. Celebrities and their stylists are vying for the most exceptional pieces from renowned designers like John Galliano and Alexander McQueen. This year has seen a significant escalation in the use of archival fashion, with standout moments at major events such as the Met Gala and Academy Awards. Notably, Kendall Jenner and Kaia Gerber showcased stunning Givenchy haute couture pieces that have never been worn before. Meanwhile, Bella Hadid and Zendaya demonstrated their prowess in vintage fashion with an impressive array of garments. Naomi Campbell, Elle Fanning, and Maddie Ziegler also made waves with iconic historical pieces, highlighting the growing trend of embracing fashion's past.
Vintage Masterpieces on Red Carpets
Archival fashion has become a highlight on red carpets, where celebrities are turning to timeless pieces to make bold statements. The 2024 Met Gala saw Kendall Jenner stepping out in a breathtaking fall 1999 Givenchy haute couture gown by Alexander McQueen. This dress, adorned with nude and black tulle and hand-embroidered with over 100,000 beads and sequins, had previously only been displayed on a mannequin. Similarly, Kaia Gerber wore a piece from McQueen’s fall 1997 haute couture collection, lent by incoming creative director Sarah Burton. The black cap-sleeve dress, embellished with gothic-inspired beaded florals and fringe, was a nod to Audrey Hepburn’s My Fair Lady dress, blending fashion and cinema seamlessly.
These appearances underscore the increasing importance of archival fashion in high-profile events. The dresses chosen by Jenner and Gerber not only represent the pinnacle of design but also serve as tributes to fashion history. By wearing these pieces, they honor the legacy of designers while showcasing their own discerning taste. The intricate details and craftsmanship of these garments add an extra layer of significance, making each appearance a memorable moment in fashion history. The choice of these specific pieces also highlights the meticulous curation process behind each outfit, reflecting the dedication and creativity of both the celebrities and their stylists.
Iconic Moments in Vintage Fashion
Bella Hadid and Zendaya have set new standards in vintage fashion this year, demonstrating both quality and quantity. Styled by Molly Dickson, Hadid showcased an array of designs including pieces from Galliano Dior and Zuhair Murad. One particularly striking garment was a dusky lavender creation so old that even the brand couldn't trace its origin. Meanwhile, Zendaya and her stylist Law Roach brought archival fashion to the forefront during promotional tours for "Dune: Part Two" and "Challengers," featuring ensembles from Vivienne Westwood and Stéphane Rolland. Their most iconic look was undoubtedly the gynoid suit from Thierry Mugler’s fall 1995 couture collection, which became an instant classic.
Naomi Campbell added another unforgettable moment when she walked the Cannes Film Festival red carpet in a black sequined Chanel gown from the fall 1996 couture collection—a dress she herself debuted on the runway. Elle Fanning and Maddie Ziegler also embraced fashion history, with Fanning wearing a 1960 Pierre Balmain gown to the Golden Globes and Ziegler donning a variation of McQueen’s famous Oyster dress at the SAG Awards. These moments collectively illustrate the resurgence of vintage fashion, where each piece tells a unique story and adds depth to the wearer’s persona. The trend extends beyond the red carpet, with Ariana Grande hosting SNL in a 1982 Mugler creation and Emily Ratajkowski sporting Tom Ford Gucci in Venice. Amal Clooney’s summer vintage parade further exemplifies how fashion's past continues to inspire and captivate audiences today.