Wear your values.

In today's world - where environmental challenges mix with a culture of disposable fashion and micro trends -our clothing choices say a lot about who we are. Vintage isn’t just about standing out; it’s a nod to values that defy fast fashion’s transient hype. As Alec Leache (author of THE WORLD IS ON FIRE BUT WE ARE STILL BUYING SHOES), puts it, our sartorial choices can be both protest and poetry, a reminder that every garment carries its own legacy.

Building a sustainable wardrobe on a budget is as much about practicality as it is about self-reflection. Choosing vintage isn’t just a smart financial move or a mark of individual style - it’s joining a broader conversation on conservation and identity. Every piece you choose transforms your closet into a curated archive of history and individuality.

Here are five staple pieces to assist in curating a tailored vintage wardrobe with quality, sustainability, and timelessness;

1. Tailored Trousers:
Look for quality wool trousers—preferably Australian-made. I personally love a men's trouser cut, with a mid-rise and a wide leg silhouette.

2. Classic Button-Up Shirt:
Find a 100% cotton shirt, ideally crafted in Australia or from fine European fabrics, that resists crinkling and features a timeless stripe. Wear it buttoned up, tucked in, or over a tank.

3. Leather Boots or Loafers:
Invest in a good pair of leather boots that will LAST. Italian craftsmanship is a bonus!

4. Vintage Blazer:
I love a men's cut—slightly oversized and boxy—that you can style with pants, skirts, dresses, or shorts. Opt for wool; old Australian or Italian-made pieces are the best quality.

5. The Perfect Tee:
Seal your collection with a perfectly oversized tee. Look for one with a slightly heavier GSM for durability and, in my opinion, a slightly high neckline is the way to go.

It's also perfectly okay to invest in pre-loved designer pieces that come with a legacy. If designer isn’t your style, seek out brands that align with your values and that you know you'll wear repeatedly. While there’s no hard-and-fast rule about the number of wears an item should receive before it’s worth buying, if you envision reaching for it over and over (say, 50 times or more), that’s a solid investment in both your style and the planet.

This approach isn’t just about making a style statement - it’s about building a wardrobe that stands the test of time, merging thoughtful design with sustainable practice. Enjoy curating a collection that is uniquely yours, rich with history and ready for the future.

Buy good clothes. Wear them a lot.