How to score preloved designer bags on Instagram, according to Hawkeye Vintage

Vintage fashion treasures. 

As people who are keenly obsessed with fashion, we spend much of our time fawning over dream luxury bags. Though they sit on many of our wish lists, we’re acutely aware we may never be able to purchase a luxury handbag off the shelf. Lucky for us, secondhand fashion is on the rise – better serving the planet and our wallets.

Who better to know about the ins and outs of preloved luxury than Melbourne-based Hawkeye Vintage? The local consignment store has been dealing in the high-end space for over 13 years now, and over that time, has finessed its way of providing luxury pieces to fashion lovers.

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High-end doesn’t have to mean drastically steep prices, either. Hawkeye Vintage’s Director, Danielle Goodwin, prides herself on the fair prices she’s able to set for some of the world’s most coveted items. The consignment platform has become known for its monthly VIP sales held on Instagram, where pieces are sold at heavily discounted rates.

Off the back of a successful sourcing trip in Japan (where Danielle used to live), Hawkeye Vintage is holding another live VIP sale abroad in October. Here, Zoe De Luise from Hawkeye chats with Fashion Journal about the process of overseas sourcing and provides her best tips for scoring a bag yourself.

For those who aren’t aware, what’s the story behind Hawkeye Vintage?

Hawkeye Vintage is a renowned name in the world of luxury fashion and vintage couture. Established in 2012, the brand has carved a niche for itself by curating and offering an exceptional collection of high-end vintage fashion pieces from around the world.

The foundation of Hawkeye Vintage was laid with a vision to bring the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of vintage fashion to a global audience. The brand’s founder, Danielle Goodwin, envisioned a platform where individuals with a discerning taste for fashion could discover and acquire rare, one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the artistry and history of bygone eras.

Hawkeye Vintage’s collection spans across various fashion eras, including the iconic styles of the 1920s to the avant-garde designs of the 1990s. From vintage Chanel and Hermès handbags to rare couture gowns, the brand offers a diverse array of treasures that appeal to both collectors and fashion enthusiasts.

What’s your process for sourcing quality, authentic designer goods?

What sets Hawkeye Vintage apart is its meticulous curation process. The team of experts at Hawkeye Vintage travels extensively, scouring international markets and exclusive auctions to source the finest vintage clothing, accessories, and luxury goods. Each piece is handpicked for its unique design, quality, and historical significance.

Over the years, Hawkeye Vintage has gained recognition for its ability to discover and curate rare and sought-after fashion pieces. Whether it’s a classic Chanel quilted bag, a pristine Dior ‘New Look’ dress, or a statement piece from an iconic designer, Hawkeye Vintage is a trusted destination for those in search of fashion history.

In addition to its online presence, Hawkeye Vintage hosts exclusive VIP events and showcases to provide clients with an immersive experience. These events offer a glimpse into the world of vintage fashion, complete with expert consultations and an opportunity to acquire unique pieces.

While based in South Yarra, Hawkeye Vintage serves a global clientele. Its online platform allows fashion enthusiasts from around the world to explore and acquire vintage fashion treasures, making the brand a true global ambassador of vintage couture.

You’ve recently travelled to Japan to source items, can you tell us about the trip? 

Recently, Hawkeye Vintage embarked on an unforgettable journey to Japan, where we hosted a spectacular live sale event that left fashion enthusiasts buzzing with excitement. Our team carefully curated a selection of exquisite luxury goods, from iconic handbags to vintage couture, and presented them at affordable prices. 

The event was a roaring success, allowing us to share the beauty of high-end fashion with a diverse audience across the globe. We were thrilled to witness the joy and appreciation that our luxury offerings brought our customers.

Hawkeye Vintage is known for its Instagram VIP sales. What can people expect?

Japan was an absolute blast and we’re thrilled to announce that we’re coming back for an encore in October! The overwhelming success of our recent stint in Japan has inspired us to bring the magic back, and this time, it’s going to be even more spectacular. Throughout the month, we have planned 25 thrilling live sales, including exclusive flash sale days featuring luxury fashion finds under $500 and under $1000. 

What’s more, Japan continues to surprise and delight us with its exclusive brands, including coveted treasures like the Hermès Kelly and Birkin. So, get ready to join us for another month of fashion, fun and incredible deals as we return to Japan for another unforgettable experience!

What are your best tips for those eager to pick up something from the sale? 

To ensure you never miss out on our fabulous sales, we invite you to visit our Instagram page and turn on post notifications. When you spot an item that catches your eye, simply take a quick screenshot and send us a direct message with the word ‘SOLD.’ We’re here to make your shopping experience as smooth as possible, so feel free to reach out with any questions or inquiries along the way. 

What are some vintage designer trends you’re seeing for 2024? 

Our Director, Danielle foresees a growing interest in designer handbags for several compelling reasons, notably their potential as investments and the intrinsic value they offer. The allure of unique designer bag variations, such as the iconic Gucci bamboo handle and exquisite exotic skins, has captivated fashion enthusiasts. Additionally, the resurgence of ‘man bags‘ and the practicality of top-handle bags for carrying the essentials are contributing to the renewed fascination with designer handbags.

Keep informed about Hawkeye Vintage’s VIP sales here.