In the past, wearing the discarded clothes of others was seen as a sign of low status and poverty. Since the 60's, vintage fashion has become a fashion statement for all, including both the celebrated and the wealthy. Vintage fashion is now a statement of style rather than of social status.

There are now a great many shops and internet sites dedicated to the buying and selling of vintage clothes. Firstly there is the humble yet occasional treasure-trove that is the local charity shop. The simple innuendo of the term ‘charity' often is enough to put people off hunting for great vintage gear in charity shops as it seems to imply poverty. However, the greatness of the charity shop is that you can find all the same great vintage clothing without the price-tag that accompanies the title ‘vintage'.

However, a good vintage store can be unbeatable and offers a more condensed selection of fashionable goodies so that you can avoid wading through mountains of tat to find that one vintage gem.

Many high-street stores have caught on to the appeal of vintage clothing and are now supplying people with mass-produced vintage-style clothing. While this is good for those in need of a quick fashion fix, these mass produced clothes have very little character. The whole notion of vintage clothing implies something unique and individual. You do not expect to see every third person wearing the same ‘vintage' top as you walk down the street.

The trading of vintage clothing has however taken a new turn recently with the development of ASOS Marketplace. ASOS Marketplace provides people with a medium to buy and sell vintage clothing direct from each other and individuals can recycle their wardrobes with specialist boutiques. It is also a place to meet other fashion lovers and talk about what you all love best - fashion.

Vintage clothing as a trend will surely expire as all trends inevitably do. However, ASOS Marketplace describes itself as a ‘fashion democracy'. It is a place where style transcends trend and where people can express themselves through their style. Marketplace does not celebrate fashion; rather it celebrates what people make of fashion. It celebrates the individual style of us all.