15 Obscure Fashion Items From the Past to Have in Your Arsenal

We welcome any chance to go back to a time when women’s undergarments were simple, romantic, and comfortable. They weren’t all about form, support, coverage and cleavage. The vintage style bralette is equal parts sweet and sophisticated. Note: It’s not for the big-busted.

Gauntlet refers to a style of gloves that have a long loose cuff that extends over the forearm. In medieval times knights and soldiers wore gauntlets to cover their armor and these gloves later became a fashion statement for women in the 1920’s and 1930’s. Let your inner Game of Thrones freak out with this one.

Capes and capelets were big in the 1930’s instead of proper coats, so that women could keep warm without distracting from their outfits. Do they do the job as well as a leather jacket or trench? Not exactly, but you will definitely stand out.

The surcoat is a type of long cloak that both men and women wore over their clothing in the 13th and 14th centuries — a perfect vintage style addition to your wardrobe if you’re a fan of layering.

If given the choice between wearing an uncomfortable thong, super-binding Spanx to hide underwear lines, or to wear a slip underneath your clothes, what would you choose? Remind us, when and why did slips become an undergarment reserved for old ladies?

Yes, there is something about stockings that just makes you picture your grandma. But seamed tights are equal parts elegant, classy, a little sassy and a lot fun. Plus you can wear them to work or for a night out on the town.

In the Middle Ages pomanders were worn, not just as style pieces, but to ward off bad smells. We might not need these baubles for the same reason as years before (thank you hygiene), but there is something timeless yet modern about a pendant necklace, and the sweet smelling perfume is definitely a perk.

Bad hair days happen all too often — especially during the summer or if you happen to live in a climate where humidity and frizz can ruin your day. Invest in a chic, minimalist hat that can serve as an extension of your outfit and also tame (slash hide) your unruly tresses.

Because sometimes your hands get cold and gloves are just not nearly stylish enough.

There is no denying that these days sun tanning is out and sun protection is in. You know what’s more stylish than SPF 100? A brightly colored silk parasol to twirl as you protect your skin from harsh UV rays.

Smithsonian.com calls the pocket watch, “the first wearable tech game changer”. A pocket watch is equal parts functional and cool. You’ll never be late and you’ll turn your timepiece into an interesting conversation starter.

When it comes to vintage style clothes, who doesn’t love any trend that accentuates a woman’s curves? That’s not to say it’s the most comfortable undergarment to add to your wardrobe, but it is certainly a faster and easier way to slim your figure than a drastic diet.

In recent years people have started sporting caftans at the beach or pool, but who wouldn’t want to wear a breezy, flowing and most importantly, comfortable gown to work or to the grocery store? We’d be lying if we said we didn’t always want to wear a caftan. Always.

There is something extremely elegant and special about a traditional Japanese kimono with its beautiful silk fabrics, vibrant colors and clean lines. Typically worn by Japanese women for special occasions, Kimono-inspired fashion became popular in the 1920’s. This is one of our favorites pieces of vintage inspired clothing.

Wouldn’t it be nice if stylish pants were a little more comfortable than skinny jeans? Vintage style wide-leg trousers e from the 60’s and 70’s breathe instant life (and comfort) into a wardrobe currently dominated by pants that cut off your circulation if you happen to eat a little too much pasta.