If ever you needed an excuse to wear vintage fashion, what better way to show off your attire than to attend one of the numerous events that are organised across the country, and indeed abroad.

Vintage fairs are popping up in the blink of an eye, swing balls are held in beautiful dance halls and vintage tea rooms offer a colourful and authentic setting for an afternoon scone.

In New York, the annual Jazz Age Lawn Party is held where the guests dress up in ’20s gear, dance and browse the stalls for vintage treasures.

It seems that everyone is enjoying the romance and fantasy of bygone eras … and why wouldn’t they? Wearing vintage clothing and vintage accessories is an exciting way to channel the feel of an era through its fashion to the present day.

The history and culture of the time is almost woven into the garments, which means vintage fashion is not only about the look, it’s also about the story behind the fabric.

The roaring Twenties marked a period of prosperity and new opportunities for women – they were given the right to vote, many started working and women were able to compete for the first time in Olympic field events.

The 1960s saw Audrey Hepburn starring in classics such as Breakfast at Tiffany’s and My Fair Lady. The iconic black Givenchy dress that she wore in the former is said to have been auctioned off for a massive £410,000.

So when people buy vintage fashion, they are not only interested in the garment itself, they want to feel they own a piece of the story that it embodies.

Wearing vintage is also a great way to experiment and use your fashion know-how to create a fabulous outfit. No amount of department store shopping can compare with the joy of coming across a vintage gem.

Nowadays, it is often thought that new is best, and although this may be the case with technology, it is certainly not true of fashion. After browsing through an array of colourful garments, each completely different from the last, you’ll soon find the exquisite piece that is perfect for you. Once you’ve converted to vintage fashion, there’s no going back. Or is that forward?