The true value of vintage: These are the 5 pre-loved pieces to seek out

A few months ago, a glance into a shop window had me halting in my tracks: it was a vintage cashmere Fendi baguette, embroidered with flowers, as worn by Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City many years ago. While the Italian house has recently brought back this coveted style to its accessories line in a range of colours and patterns, there's something about the original – in all its unique '90s glory – that has made it such special piece in my collection.

The mission to uncover an exquisite vintage treasure can be overwhelming, but when you do finally get your hands on that near-mint Gucci 'Jackie' bag or Burberry trench, it's truly a one-of-a-kind investment. Not only can you enjoy the rarity of the piece, but there's the knowledge of knowing it's a responsible and sustainable purchase. Second-hand clothing, by its very existence, demonstrates its ability to last for decades.

Related: The best vintage stores in Stockholm

With the widespread shift to mindful consumerism, more and more style-conscious shoppers are turning to pre-owned clothing, but it’s not for the obvious reasons. For many, the argument today is that many garments and accessories hold even more aesthetic appeal when vintage, rather than brand new. “The vintage market has really become a hot spot for fashionistas, and for good reason. It’s a place where people can find unique pieces that nobody else has and it’s paying tribute to fashion, both past and present”, says Marie Louise Schultz, creative director and founder of online pre-loved accessory retailer The Vintage Bar.

A-list celebrities are clearly on-board too, with many regularly sporting vintage pieces that would not have been as eye-catching were they brand new. Take Swedish supermodel Elsa Hosk with her line-up of Worn Vintage leather biker jackets, Kendall Jenner's enviable collection of vintage Louis Vuitton bags and Jean Paul Gaultier pieces, or Dakota Johnson, who regularly sports vintage Levi’s – made infinitely cooler through their worn-in effect.

But it’s not just celebrities who are seen sporting historical fashion pieces out and about. If you scour the streets of the Nordic capitals or any big city, chances are you will see vintage designer bags, jackets and shoes, sported by almost every fashionista present. Vintage garments have not only become a symbol of sustainability and budget-friendly shopping, but also a symbol of fashion history and expert craftsmanship, created by talented designers decades ago.

However, shopping for those unique vintage gems requires proper dedication and patience. You won’t find that perfectly worn Miu Miu bag in the first vintage shop you visit. So how do the pros do it? To start off, you need a clear idea of what you’re looking for. Below, Vogue Scandinavia lists five key wardrobe staples that look even better second-hand.

No wardrobe is complete without a pair of classic Levi’s with a flawless fit achieved through years of wearing. Styles, cuts and washes of denim have come in and out of favour over the years, but Levi's in particular are a core staple piece that remain eternally on-trend. The durability and longevity of the material is what makes it a perfect vintage find – it’s guaranteed to last for years.

Eyeing an investment piece? Leather is the way to go and looks even better vintage. Be it a high-quality leather jacket or western-inspired cowboy boots, these wardrobe staples can last decades, they improve with age, and make any outfit look effortlessly cool. You can always count on Bottega Veneta for luxurious leather handbags or Acne Studios for chic leather jackets, and buying them second-hand adds more character to your wardrobe.

It's universally acknowledged that a designer handbag can instantly elevate a look. However, over the past few years, popular designer bags have increased in resale value – sometimes more so than houses and cars – making it a wise investment, too.

A pre-loved bag brims with benefits. For starters, it’s more friendly on your bank account, while serving up superior quality and guaranteed durability. Yes, opening the crisp, clean packaging of a brand new designer handbag triggers waves of endorphins, but owning an original Fendi baguette or Dior saddle bag that Sarah Jessica Parker sported in Sex And The City is a truly singular feeling.

“Vintage handbags are often considered a statement piece and can add a touch of individuality to an outfit, which is yet another reason why people are drawn to the idea of buying vintage”, Schultz comments. “People spend so much time searching for a rare piece or their (sold-out) dream designer bag, and the feeling of finally finding it and hitting purchase can be such a rush for some. Combine that with the fact that it is possible to find some really great deals as well, is definitely also something that entices vintage shoppers”, she adds.

Since its game-changing introduction to women’s wardrobes in the 20th century, the blazer has evolved into a garment that ranks as one of the greatest wardrobe assets. At once feminine and masculine, a structured blazer is the definition of bonafide cool, especially the oversized fit made covetable by one Matilda Djerf.

Finding the perfect oversized blazer can be a challenge, which is why you should look to vintage stores to find the perfect size for you. An additional bonus to vintage shopping is that the price does not hinder you from remaking and restitching the item to transform it into your dream fit. The best blazers are a true staple and can adapt to just about every occasion.

Buying a pre-loved T-shirt from the vintage market is not only tinged with nostalgia, but is an excellent shortcut to a statement look. Take inspiration from the '80s and '90s when T-shirts in homage to bands and films reigned supreme. It's a staple that is also renowned for its versatility, lending itself to many occasions. Take Erika Jayne of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, who wore a Moschino runway T-shirt to her fellow co-star’s cocktail dinner – a bold move that proved the true adaptability and staying power of the garment.