Where stylist Jillian Arcenas shops for vintage designer
image and words by Jillian Arcenas
The best places to shop vintage designer.
There are certain people whose style is so distinctly their own. While the textures and pieces may change day-to-day, you could spot them from a mile away. Jillian Arcenas is one of those people.
Working as both a fashion stylist and Fashion Journal’s Content and Production Coordinator, Jillian’s known for her uniform of creative black layers and a growing collection of caps. Where some of us might save certain pieces for special occasions, she’s just as likely to walk into the office in a top from Issey Miyake’s Pleats Please as she is with a pre-loved Balenciaga Day Bag in tow.
Rather than buying new, her penchant for vintage designer has meant she’s developed a trained eye for spotting secondhand treasures. Whether it’s the best Japanese labels or vintage denim, her mental Roladex is second to none. Eager for a peek into her wardrobe, she shares her favourite places to shop for vintage designer in Australia below.
For Japanese Designer: Loomos Studio
View this post on Instagram
For anyone trying to get into Japanese designers, I always recommend looking into Issey Miyake, Comme Des Garçons and my personal favourite, Yohji Yamamoto. Loomos Studios is the perfect destination for those brands. While it’s based in Melbourne, it’s primarily an Instagram shop (though it occasionally hosts in-person pop-ups).
Find it here.
For designer handbags: Curated By Charbel
View this post on Instagram
If you’re after a quality secondhand designer bag, head to Curated by Charbel. Though it’s an online store, it also hosts regular pop-ups around Australia so you can browse its collection in-person. In saying that, it was the personal shopping and sourcing service that led me to my beloved Balenciaga Day Bag – a forever favourite that’s still on heavy rotation.
Find it here.
For high-quality staples: Arrive Archive
View this post on Instagram
Arrive Archive’s curation blends designer labels and thoughtfully sourced vintage pieces. You can find anything from Balenciaga handbags to vintage activewear, designer sunglasses, outerwear, shoes and camo pants. It’s one of my favourites for elevated wardrobe staples that feel easy yet refined, and its price points aren’t too high.
Find it here.
For denim: Shappere Vintage
View this post on Instagram
My Americana-loving boyfriend was the one who first introduced me to Shappere Vintage. I love visiting its Melbourne store and always find myself drawn to its extensive selection of classic denim. Trust me, there is no shortage of washes, cuts and sizes.
Find it here.
For window shopping and trying on: Dot Comme
View this post on Instagram
Not every shopping trip has to end with a purchase – sometimes it’s simply about finding inspiration. Based in Melbourne, Dot Comme’s curation of unique archival and runway pieces, from Jean Paul Gaultier to Comme des Garçons, makes it the perfect place to wander through and browse. Feel fabrics, try pieces on and indulge.
Find it here.
For hidden gems: Chronological Error
View this post on Instagram
From vintage Australian labels to pieces you probably reposted on Tumblr, Prahran’s Chronological Error is filled with hidden gems that make the search just as enjoyable as the find.
Find it here.
Keep up with Jillian here.
Liked this? You’ll love these...
