Warm and elegant

This look never goes out of style

click to enlarge Warm and elegant
Photo by Joseph Copley. Clothing and style by Linda Renehan.
Cass Crawford and Vertrell Yates showing off some vintage winter wear at Springfield Vintage.

Shopping vintage is becoming more popular every year, and it's easy to see why. Not only is it good for the environment, but it's good for your bank account as well. Vintage shops are also great for when you're looking for stylish outerwear or a one-of-a-kind gift for the holidays. "In a coat you just need something to keep you warm," says Linda Renehan of Springfield Vintage in downtown Springfield, "and each decade has its own little preference." From long wool coats to 50s swing coats, vintage styles will keep you warm and make you stand out.

CPO jackets – originally issued to U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officers – have always been a popular choice. This is a timeless rugged jacket that is easy to find in your favorite vintage shop. It's a winter classic made from thick wool, designed for officers on cold-weather work duty in the 1930s. "Just a nice warm 'cover-your-butt' coat. Something that's been in every generation," says Renehan. "A lot of the vintage coats are going to be wool. They were more functional than fashionable."

The 80s puffy down vest has seen a big resurgence in popularity over the last decade. The solid-hued down vest is perfect for the cold winter months. "Everything always comes back. Vests were gone, then puffer vests came back, says Renehan. "You couldn't get rid of them 10 years ago and now you can sell them all year long." Complete the look with the perfect oversized ski sunglasses and you're ready for the winter. –Joseph Copley

About The Author

Joseph Copley

Joseph Copley is production designer for Illinois Times and co-publisher of Activator, the music and arts magazine.

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