Modern Classics

The "all-new" styles this season are rooted in old-time vintage classics, whether opaque tights and ballerina flats of the '60s mod look, leg warmers for '80s inspired punk, or fishnet stockings mixed with classic tweed for feminine, femme-fatal chic. It is all out there competing for space in our wardrobes.

There is a bounty of new stock in the shops that fits the bill, but if you're after the genuine article, you could start with some online shopping.

Online clothes shopping could hardly be better or easier than at auction website eBay.

I've lost countless hours rummaging through e-bargains and bidding on choice items, ranging from Chanel lip gloss to peep-toe designer shoes.

My greatest effort recently resulted in the snip buy of a vintage-look, Karen Millen dress for just £16. Once you have registered on the site and got the hang of bidding, it is easy to find those wardrobe extras that will make you stand out from the crowd.

For a head start around the shops and Internet, here is a quick glance at what defines the look of those best vintage years, which are inspiring our fashions this seasons.

20s - 30s - Originals can be expensive as they are scarce due to their delicate nature.

Soft fabrics and bias cut dresses rarely stand the test of time so if you do manage to get hold of an original piece, keep it for those special occasions. Great Art Deco survivors tend to be accessories. Look 20s-30s for glass or marquisette jewellery, metal mesh handbags and knitted scarves. To create this glam vintage look with a modern twist, mix a cocktail dress cut on the bias with a faux fur stole, satin ribbons or 20s style beading.

Thirties ladies also wore delicate woollies, with pretty buttons and shaped-necklines and lingerie played a part in the overall presentation, often worn just peeping out from under the clothes.

40s - 50s - Wartime fashion in Britain took the form of shortish skirts, sensible, flat-heeled shoes and heavy, square-shouldered jackets often echoing the style of military uniforms.

For convenience, women took to wearing trousers and old suits and dresses were revamped. The wearing of patches on the knees and elbows became vogue. Handknitted scarves, socks and hats added to the self-sufficient look and many were made from recycled-wool.

Berets and felt hats were adapted by adding flowers or feathers, as expensive fabrics such as silks and lace were not available. To achieve that forties feel, go for handmade pieces, felt hats, embroidered gloves and tweeds, add a skinny belt for a more up-todate angle.

60s - Clobber is everywhere at the moment. Mod-like outfits, slim suits, simple shapes and bright colours define the era. Look out for A-line mini dresses with cutouts, opaque tights and flat boots, as well as graphic patterns making bold statements and smart overcoats with brightly-coloured, satin linings.

Lingerie was mostly nylon, with shoes and bags made of vinyl or animal print fabric.

70s - Some of the polystyrene-cool of the '60s hung over into this decade, along with trends like the miniskirt and bell-bottom trousers. Polyester knitted fabrics competed with denim as the preferred textile of the day. Think disco when putting together '70s chic, but don't overdo it - vintage designer dresses should keep you on the sunny side of Saturday Night Fever.

This era's clothing has recently soared in price, made popular by the likes of Nicole Kidman cleaning out vintage stores in New York.

80s - It doesn't seem like the eighties have been long gone, but a new generation is now out shopping for the look. If you hoard clothes you might find you still have a few leftovers at the back of the wardrobe.

Think Flashdance. Big baggy sweatshirt-style tops, legwarmers, chunky belt buckles and suede-fringe boots. Team the look with short, layered minis, denim jackets, loud jumpers and patent leather for real authenticity.

Whatever your era of choice or vintage style, creating a personal look is the key. Find the decade you like and give it your own twist, using both old and new.