Sometimes it can be frustrating to find a perfect vintage item that is just one size too small, and short of having corrective surgery, one is never going to fit inside it. This is where reproduction vintage has its uses, producing a range of sizes for every garment, all designed with an introspective delve into past clothing construction.
Darcy Clothing. Both on-line and with a charming little shop in Lewes, East Sussex, the Darcy Clothing range specialises in workwear styles from the 1930s and 40s, with spearpoint collared shirts, drill jackets and high -back fishtail waisted trousers. Darcy also stocks a large range of formal wear, including a vast range of stiff collars. darcyclothing.com
Vivien of Holloway Making the world a more glamorous place with enchantingly authentic 1940s and 1950s reproduction, ready-to-wear ladies clothing. Visit their boutique or shop online for a variety of glamorous British styles of dress, separates, accessories and hair flowers, all made in London. 294 Holloway Road, London N7 6NJ www.vivienofholloway.com
20th Century Chap. An online boutique selling vintage reproduction and retro-styled clothing for men inspired by the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s, including trousers, shirts, waistcoats and accessories. All their clothing is based on authentic patterns from the 1920s-1940s. www.20thcenturychap.com
Wallace’s Home Boutique. A vintage-inspired collection of gifts and home wares in a beautiful Grade 2 listed building known locally as the “witchball”. Wallace’s sells original vintage artefacts as well as modern retro designs reflecting a golden era of design from the 1930s, 40s and 50s. wallaceshomeboutique.co.uk
Old Town. Quite simply the market leader in reproducing clothing from original 1930s patterns, in Old Town’s case predominantly workwear. Their range has broadened over the years and now includes a vast quantity of Harris Tweeds, baratheas and heavy cavalry drills, as well as light linens for summer wear. Based in Holt, Norfolk but offers an on-line made-to-order service. www.old-town.co.uk
