As the sweet memories of Valentine’s Day fade away, along with the chocolates, the bright red roses, and pleasant champagne buzz, we’re left with a few more weeks of unpredictable, mostly grey, misty, or snowy weather. It’s that time of year when those of us living in colder climates start to fantasize about sunny beaches, warm getaways, and resort escapes. We start to crave the pretty golden tan ( safe of course!) that seems to elude us as we inevitably slip into that typical bluish-greenish winter tint from weeks of no sun — a reminder of how desperately we need some beach time to regain a bit of a glow.
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If you’re lucky enough to be booking a retreat or planning your annual getaway, by now you’re probably looking to upgrade your vacation essentials. You’re likely eyeing new trends, sorting through what you have in the closet that may still work, and figuring out what needs to be refreshed so you can show off your style.
Most fashion brands have already dropped their shiny new resort spring/summer collections, tempting you to spend, spend, spend. Dresses, swimsuits, sandals, sunglasses, jewelry — it’s all designed to make you think you need it for your vacation this year. Tempting? Sure. But what if I told you there’s a smarter way? More affordable, more sustainable, more uniquely you, a head-turning resort collection that nobody else will have. Let me show you how I do it.
At the time of writing this post, all the pieces featured here are available for purchase from one of my favorite designer vintage shops. If you shop through the links provided, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. If these pieces sell out, I hope this edit inspires you to embrace individuality, seek out pieces that truly speak to you, and dress with intention—beyond fleeting trends. Visit AmarCord Vintage Fashion to access their full collection beyond pieces featured here.
Minimalist Resort Wardrobe, Maximalist Impact
Choose pieces that stand out on their own yet effortlessly mix and match to create endless outfit possibilities. Focus on silhouettes that complement each other, blending bold prints with versatile neutrals for a dynamic, travel-ready wardrobe. This season, pastels are making a comeback—an elegant canvas for striking, mood-driven looks.
Elevate your edit with one or two statement accessories: vintage sunglasses with serious attitude, eye-catching jewelry, and sleek sandals that transition seamlessly from day to night. Don’t forget a chic, dramatic hat for both sun protection and flair, plus a swimsuit that highlights your best features—you already know what makes you look and feel incredible.
Bikini or One-Piece? Be Body-Confident in Either One
The age-old beachwear dilemma—bikini or a one-piece? The answer really depends on your body confidence and what you are planning to do. Both are always in style, but the key is comfort and fit. Are you lounging by the pool or splashing around in the waves? You want something that stays put and suits your activity. As for coverage, that’s entirely up to you. Personally, I love bikinis, and even in my 50s, I wear them with confidence. But a one-piece is undeniably practical—it can double as a top, making it easy to go from beach to lunch with a stylish wrap skirt or wide-leg pants.
Jean-Louis Scherrer Vintage Tropical Swimsuit & Skirt Set
Here I present to you a breathtaking Vintage Tropical Metallic Swimsuit and Skirt Ensemble Set by Jean-Louis Scherrer, dating back to the late 1980s. The name may not immediately ring a bell, but by acquiring this set, you will own a true piece of French couture history. It is exceedingly rare to find unworn, pristine garments by this designer—especially one as striking as this.
Jean-Louis Scherrer began his illustrious career in 1956 at Dior, working alongside Yves Saint Laurent. Following Christian Dior’s passing, he remained at the fashion house under Yves Saint Laurent before venturing out on his own. In 1962, he established his eponymous Parisian couture house, quickly attracting a discerning and devoted international clientele. Throughout the 1960s, Scherrer held an exclusive contract with Bergdorf Goodman, allowing his designs to be replicated and sold in the United States. Though his fashion house no longer exists, his legacy endures through exquisite vintage pieces such as this.
This extraordinary set is the ultimate vacation statement, effortlessly carrying you from poolside relaxation to evening cocktails. The vivid tropical print, interwoven with luminous metallic accents, catches the light beautifully, exuding an air of glamour and sophistication. The one-piece swimsuit features a scooped low back and gathered panels at the hips, offering both elegance and a flattering silhouette. The matching tiered skirt, designed with a comfortable stretch waistband, is accompanied by a wrapping tie that allows for versatile styling.
A truly timeless treasure, this ensemble embodies the effortless luxury of resort wear at its finest.
FENDI needs no introduction
Fendi needs no introduction, of course. Here, you have the opportunity to choose between two stunning vintage options—each a testament to the brand’s timeless allure.
First, the Fendi Vintage Aqua, Black, and White Zucca Monogram One-Piece Swimsuit, a sleek and sophisticated choice with the iconic FF logo print, beautifully contrasted by an aqua blue trim. The darted triangle bust and cross-back straps create a flattering silhouette, while the dramatic low-scooped back adds an element of allure. Fully lined for a perfect fit, this piece embodies effortless luxury.
Alternatively, the Fendi Vintage Pink and Brown Zucca Monogram Two-Piece Bikini exudes bold femininity. The hot pink trim highlights the classic brown-on-brown FF logo print, creating a striking contrast. The cupped, underwire top features built-in padding for support, while the wide-side brief ensures a flattering, comfortable fit. A golden FF logo buckle at the back and a tie closure at the neck complete the look with signature Fendi elegance. Two impeccable choices, one undeniable statement—Fendi perfection.
Both swimsuits invite you to build a vibrant, head-turning resort look. Consider pairing them with sarongs, sandals, jewelry, sunglasses, or hats that echo the aqua and pink accents. Speaking of accessories, a great pair of vintage Fendi sunnies would be the perfect finishing touch.
Vintage Sunglasses – a must-have for elevating any look
Let’s explore some extraordinary sunglasses—true one-of-a-kind treasures that are no longer in production. These are not just accessories; they are statement pieces, each embodying the charm and exclusivity of vintage luxury.
With a variety of styles, shapes, and colors, choosing just one may prove impossible—so why not pick two? A great pair of sunglasses can transform your entire look, and sometimes, a pop of color near your face is all it takes to elevate your style effortlessly.
Step into the world of iconic vintage eyewear with this exquisite collection of rare, statement-making sunglasses from some of the most legendary fashion houses.
Cazal, a name synonymous with luxury sunglasses, delivers an almost-aviator style with its Vintage 855 222 model, featuring a stunning yellow-tinted clear frame, intricate seafoam and cream geometric inlay, and gleaming gold hardware. Gianfranco Ferré, known for his architectural approach to fashion, stuns with a pair of chunky aviators in vivid fuchsia pink, accented by a gunmetal silver brow bar and matching GF logo at the sides—these deadstock treasures remain untouched, complete with their original sticker.
For those who love classic sophistication, Christian Dior’s Vintage 2575 sunglasses from the early 1980s offer a marbled caramel brown frame with gold-tone accents and the signature CD logo on the geometric arms, exuding effortless elegance. Meanwhile, Fendi’s Vintage Zucca Monogram Cat Eye Sunglasses bring a modern edge to vintage luxury with a white enamel brow line, stacked grey and black FF monogram detailing, and striking silver metal accents throughout. Topped off with gradient blue-grey lenses, they are the ultimate fusion of bold design and timeless Italian craftsmanship.
Whether you are drawn to avant-garde shapes, daring color combinations, or heritage monograms, this collection offers statement sunglasses that will only become more valuable and sought-after over time.
How to curate a perfect resort vacation wardrobe
For years, my favorite way to curate a collection for a special occasion has been by creating a mood or vision board made entirely of vintage and second-hand designer pieces. I’d spend winter weeks hunting for the perfect finds, knowing that when the time came to pack my suitcase and sunscreen, I’d have everything I needed—each piece one-of-a-kind, just like me. After all, why would I want to dress like everyone else?
Check out my blog post on shopping vintage and second-hand online, where I review top platforms and share expert tips and tricks!
If you don’t have time, I am here for you with this collection of carefully curated and preserved garments from a few different designers and eras. For this blog I am using exclusively some of my favorite sellers on ebay, a platform I am very familiar with both as a former store owner, and a regular shopper. You would be blown away what you can find.
Pro tip: Like with any garments, my recommendation with second-hand and vintage pieces is always to shop intentionally with the idea of keeping and enjoying those pieces for a long time and opting for the best quality you can find. Vintage pieces especially will retain their value and you will be able to resell them again if you take care of them properly. Some items may even increase in value.
My recommendation is to build your everyday wardrobe around sustainable and comfortable fabrics like cotton and linen, ensuring effortless elegance and breathability. Then, elevate your style by incorporating a few stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces—the kind that you can bring out at just the right moment to make an entrance and be truly unforgettable.
Wardrobe Essentials: Dresses You Can’t Travel Without
Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of vintage fashion with this curated collection of extraordinary dresses, each capturing the essence of its era while remaining effortlessly wearable today. From the 1960s Hawaiian charm of Hilo Hattie’s vibrant floral maxi dress, with its bold hibiscus print in yellow, orange, and pink, scooped neckline, and flattering A-line skirt, to the psychedelic sophistication of Emilio Pucci’s silk jersey column dress, featuring a mesmerizing black, brown, and white floral print and a dramatic floor-length draped body, these pieces tell stories.
The 1970s mod aesthetic comes alive in Courrèges’ baby blue rayon-linen sun dress, where architectural tailoring, charming button details, and a subtly revealing neckline create an effortlessly chic silhouette reminiscent of André Courrèges’ signature futuristic elegance.
The ethereal romance of the 1990s is captured in Berit Steffin’s breathtaking pastel ombré net dress, a delicate masterpiece of sheer embroidery in a dreamy gradient of purple to blue, suspended from thin silk cord straps. Meanwhile, the drama and sensuality of Yves Saint Laurent’s iconic Spring/Summer 1983 collection are perfectly embodied in this black silk one-shoulder gown, with its flirtatious ruffle cascading across the bodice and down the skirt, revealing a sultry side slit. An attached strapless mini dress underneath ensures a perfect structure, allowing the fluidity of the silk to take center stage.
Whether you are drawn to bold florals, striking silhouettes, or intricate couture details, these dresses are true investment pieces—each a wearable work of art that will never go out of style.
A complete look that will get you noticed
La Mendola Vintage 1970s Stunning White Blue Orchid Floral Jersey Dress: Stunning vintage La Mendola dress from the early 1970s. This breathtaking piece comes in a slinky white jersey with a striking orchid print in shades of blue, green, and yellow. Long sleeve, column silhouette with a phenomenal chiffon cape that is attached at the outside of each sleeve and tapers toward the back at full length.
Elevate the effortless elegance of the Mendola jersey dress with bold, sculptural accessories that command attention. Gerda Lynggaard Monies’ vintage multistrand necklace, composed of 18 strands of carved horn beads in deep black, smoky grey, and warm brown, drapes beautifully, adding rich texture and striking depth to the fluid silhouette of the dress.
Paired with Monies’ oversized faceted ebony and silver foil leather fringe earrings, which feature smooth black wood, misty resin-encased silver foil, and dramatic leather fringe, this combination transforms a simple jersey dress into a modern statement of artful luxury. These pieces celebrate the raw beauty of natural materials, offering a bold yet refined look that is as timeless as it is unique.
From Simple to Stunning: The Magic of Accessories
Accessories are the essential finishing touch that transform an outfit into a complete look. They are not just embellishments—they define your style, add personality, and create a sense of effortless elegance. A well-chosen hat can instantly elevate even the simplest ensemble, whether it is a wide-brimmed stunner for a glamorous getaway or a chic straw hat for laid-back sophistication.
Jewelry brings a touch of sparkle and intrigue, allowing you to express your mood, whether bold and statement-making or delicate and understated. Sunglasses are more than just eye protection; they add mystery, confidence, and that undeniable aura of cool. And of course, sandals ground your look, tying everything together with the perfect balance of comfort and style. The right accessories do not just complement an outfit—they define it.
I am delighted to introduce a curated collection of timeless pieces—the kind that will not only be noticed today but will continue to stand out for years to come. With their exceptional craftsmanship, rarity, and style, these treasures will only grow in value over time, making them as much an investment as they are a statement of personal elegance.
A striking selection of vintage jewelry, each piece with its own unique story and a bold design. Philippe Ferrandis’ oversized aquatic-inspired earrings, with their intricate shell motif, coral-hued glass teardrops, and rhinestone-encrusted branches, bring an air of underwater fantasy, effortlessly capturing the essence of Parisian haute couture. The 1970s Jose Maria Puig Doria sterling silver sun pendant choker offers a sculptural, celestial statement—its bold, cutout face radiates strength and mysticism, perfect for a resort-ready ensemble. Meanwhile, Givenchy’s late-1960s fish scale paisley necklace, with its gold and silver charms, shimmers with movement and versatility, a year-round showpiece.
For those who adore vintage charm, the Miriam Haskell pastel yellow glass bead necklace and earrings set, with its luminous milky beads and floral pendant adorned with crystal rhinestones, embodies delicate, feminine elegance. On the avant-garde end, Ugo Correani’s phallic floral terracotta clay beaded necklace stands as a testament to his daring, surrealist vision, blending handcrafted elements with playful symbolism. Whether you favor the classic, the extravagant, or the unconventional, these pieces elevate any look, transforming jewelry into wearable art.
You can find all of the pieces shown and more on Amarcord Vintage Fashion page.
Crowned in Style, Grounded in Chic – hats and sandals
A well-chosen hat is the finishing touch to any outfit, and these exceptional designer pieces are millinery art at its finest. Yves Saint Laurent’s 1960s creamy beige straw boater hat is a rare find, blending structured elegance with a playful edge. White enameled studs dot the woven straw, while a grosgrain ribbon, also adorned with studs, extends past the brim, creating a refined yet unexpected detail.
Equally striking is the 1980s Yves Saint Laurent black patent leather bow hat, a statement piece crafted from black straw with a glossy patent leather bow. The thoughtful details—its subtle back pin and signature blue interior lining—capture the drama and sophistication YSL is known for.
For those who appreciate contemporary luxury with a commitment to sustainability, Helen Kaminski’s Provence 12 packable crocheted raffia hat in rich chocolate brown is a perfect choice. This breathable, travel-friendly sun hat is designed for effortless wear, exemplifying the brand’s dedication to responsibly sourced materials and timeless style. On the rarer side of millinery, Patricia Underwood’s wide-brimmed straw hats—one in bold red and another in classic black—are a true collector’s dream.
Underwood, a renowned New York milliner, is celebrated for her impeccable craftsmanship and collaborations with designers like Ralph Lauren and Oscar de la Renta. With her designs becoming increasingly rare, these vintage finds serve as both wearable art and a piece of fashion history. Whether structured and architectural or soft and packable, these hats transform an everyday look into something extraordinary.
While I’m happy to showcase vintage and pre-loved accessories, I tend to be more selective with footwear for obvious reasons. Most of the time, I prefer new shoes, but I make sure to shop from responsible and ethical brands. I also love exploring innovative vegan leathers and designs that prioritize sustainability. Some of my favorite brands that you can shop with confidence include Nisolo, Nomasei, VGan, Aera, Rothy’s, and SeaVees—all of which are committed to ethical production and environmentally friendly materials.
I’ll be dedicating a separate blog post to vegan and responsibly sourced alternatives to leather, diving deeper into the materials and craftsmanship behind them. If you’d like to learn more about my favorite brands and stay updated, be sure to sign up for notifications!
Our curated vintage resort collection is a celebration of timeless style, craftsmanship, and individuality. Each piece tells a story—whether it’s a bold 1960s Pucci dress, a rare Yves Saint Laurent hat, or exquisite statement jewelry by Monies and Miriam Haskell. By choosing vintage, we embrace responsible shopping, giving new life to beautifully crafted designs while reducing fashion’s environmental impact.
Whether you’re strolling along the coast or attending an elegant evening affair, these treasures allow you to express your style with authenticity and intention. Thank you for joining us on this journey—may your wardrobe always reflect both beauty and purpose.
