OOTO London guide to luxury vintage fashion

Some of the most iconic pieces from the archives of Alexander McQueen and Gucci are now available to shop at [Fenwick of Bond Street](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/stores/bond-street).

Out of the Ordinary vintage - OOTO London for short – is in the business of sourcing iconic pieces from the archives of leading global brands. From Alexander McQueen’s tartan jacket that featured in the notable Autumn/Winter 1998 ‘Joan’ collection, to Tom Ford's 2016 hand-embroidered multi-coloured sequin gown worn by Rihanna on the cover of American Vogue, OOTO London is a treasure trove for unique vintage pieces that you won’t find anywhere else. The retailer has most recently worked closely with costume designer Janty Yates on the House of Gucci film starring Lady Gaga. Some of the looks tried on by the singer and actor are now available to purchase at [Fenwick of Bond Street](https://www.fenwick.co.uk/stores/bond-street).

Enticing avid collectors, sustainable shoppers or anyone who wants to add a piece of fashion history to their wardrobe, the second floor will house 30 exceptional pieces within the exclusive OOTO London space.The highlights include the black silk chiffon dress from Lee McQueen’s Spring 2003 ‘Irere’ collection, the black bell-sleeved mini raincoat from Tom Ford’s Spring 1996 line for Gucci and the black and white boucle skirt suit from Gianni Versace’s momentous Autumn/Winter 1991 collection.

OOTO London offers fashion heirlooms that transcend trends and generations. Below, the founder Calum Blythe talks us through his approach to sourcing luxury vintage.

**How would you define OOTO London’s position in the current vintage market?** We are focused on remaining true to our mantra of being “purveyors of the finest and most important vintage clothing in the world.” We are a fashion brand that sources and curates luxury vintage clothes. Since relaunching in September 2020, we already have locations in London and Los Angeles. We are launching another new location in New York City in November this year.

**What inspired you to enter the luxury vintage space?** I have always had a great interest in fashion and being extremely creative, it was a no-brainer! I already had a background working in luxury fashion in the 1990s.

**What do you consider when selecting vintage pieces?** Naturally, I use my many years of knowledge and research, but first and foremost, I go with my gut reaction, when I first see the piece. If I don’t love it instantly, then that is not a good sign. I also always take into consideration the historical importance and condition of the piece.

**What was your thought process behind the edit at Fenwick?** It is a selection suggested by us but ultimately chosen by the Fenwick team. I’m very excited to see how it goes. The next edit will be the planned Gucci selection in November.

**Which pieces are you most excited about?** Bluntly, I’m excited about all the pieces and it will be of great interest to see the reaction of the Fenwick customer.

**For anyone new to vintage, what should they consider before investing?** You should always seek the advice of an expert if you are buying a piece of luxury vintage clothing as an investment. They will have already thoroughly researched the market, designer, provenance, and historical importance of the piece during the curation process.

**What does vintage fashion offer that new-in pieces don’t?** Vintage fashion is the ultimate luxury and offers something either unique, or as close to unique as it can get. The vintage fashion journey has the potential to offer something very special and exciting and it instantly ticks all the boxes on sustainability.

**What is the best way to protect your vintage pieces?** It depends on the piece in question and can range from simple good care and storage to climate-controlled secure storage facilities for museum-grade fashion pieces.

**What is your most treasured vintage find?** The Gianni Versace Spring 1994 safety pin gown that I found in Tokyo in 2014 is, without doubt, my most treasured find. It has been featured on several lists as one of the most important dresses of the 20th century. It was identical to the one worn by Elizabeth Hurley on the red carpet and sold to a museum in Canada in 2016.

**What item are you on the lookout for now?** We are currently focused on sourcing great pieces from Tom Ford for Gucci, Gianni Versace, John Galliano, Fendi and Azzedine Alaia. However, we are always just looking for the next amazing find and it’s important to focus on finding exceptional pieces and not just be designer specific. It’s like a daily treasure hunt.