On Sunday, the most anticipated local event since I moved here finally arrived! The Vintage Fair! It was held in the Guildhall, a massive space for a utopia of clothes and it was indoors away from the cold!

With a flash of my student ID I was in at half price, and entered a wonderful world of Levi cut-offs and 80s knitwear. The atmosphere was amazing, students and families were exploring the racks for incredible one-off vintage garments, retro toys and comics. The Beach Boys were taking us back to the sunny summer that we never had and the ladies from Southampton’s Vintage Hair Lounge were showcasing their excellent skills in transforming women into 1940s starlets!

Name: Diogo

Age: 18

“At the fair I bought a Levi’s denim jacket for £35. The main reason for why I bought it was the leopard print collar because it is so unique and different; I cannot find anything like this online or in the high street. When I wear it, I feel a little more confident in myself and also a bit rock ‘n roll! What I like most about vintage fashion is that the clothes are a different style to what we see today. I love how you can travel back in time with these clothes and also give the past an entire new and modern look. Winchester is amazing to find vintage clothes because there are monthly antique markets and there are many charity shops in town.”

Name: Alistair

Age: 18

“On Sunday I bought this leather jacket for £80, as well as a Ralph Lauren shirt.  The reason I purchased this jacket is because I have been looking for one like this for ages and the fact that it is vintage makes it better, I mean who doesn’t love vintage? Also, it is a great fit and I feel on trend. I love vintage clothes because they’re aged and cooler than new products because there is a heritage and a story with them. Winchester is a great place for vintage finds because there are many opportunities with the markets and this fair happens four times a year. It was admittedly quite difficult to find decent menswear, but I guess that’s what makes my purchases a great find!”

Overall it was a great day, I found a crazy, jazzy printed men’s shirt for a fiver that reminds me of my Granddad! Sounds odd but looks great with leggings! I cannot wait ‘til the next fair!