Vintage Fashion Blog
There is a certain hush that surrounds Dorothy Hubbs dresses from the 1940s and 1950s in the grand narrative of mid-century fashion history. And yet, they are,precisely tailored, simple yet beautifully constructed, and far more influential than they are often credited for today. In studying the structured silhouettes of the 1940s and the softened elegance of the 1950s, I found…
How to wear a vintage brooch is one of the questions I’m asked very often, and the answer lies in understanding how women styled these remarkable pieces from the 1930s through the 1950s. There is something irresistibly powerful about a vintage brooch, and I say that as someone who has lived with them for most of my life. No matter…
Adam Leja, The Man Who Lives and Breathes Vintage Couture In the rarefied world of vintage haute couture, where artistry meets obsession and fabric becomes history, few names command the reverence of Adam Leja.An art historian, connoisseur of Art Deco jewellery, and one of the world’s most distinguished collectors of vintage couture, Adam has spent decades preserving garments that would…
Best Cervin Fully Fashioned Stockings Who Makes the Best Fully Fashioned Stockings? In this article, I’m excited to share my heartfelt review of the five best Cervin fully fashioned stockings for an authentic vintage look, my personal favourites, which I have tried, tested, and worn with several of my 1940s and 1950s ensembles. Once an essential item in every woman’s…
Fall, my favourite season, is finally upon us, the perfect time to dust off my 1940s suits with matching hats and weather-appropriate gloves. As I was carefully packing my summer vintage wardrobe into Tyvek covers, you can find out how to properly store vintage in my article; ‘How to Store Vintage Clothes Like a Pro‘, and unpacking fall ensembles, I…
Hydrate in vintage style this summer with the best water bottle on the market. Indulge in luxury with the stylish and opulent My Bougie Bottle and the elegant vegan leather sling, the perfect and practical hands-free accessory to compliment your vintage look. The arrival of spring brings with it a renewed sense of energy and excitement. With the increasing warmth…
70s sunglasses are making a comeback, and they’re better and bigger than ever. Whether you prefer large frames or vibrant colours, there’s a perfect pair for you. In this blog post, I’ll focus on some of the most popular styles of 70s sunglasses, with a particular emphasis on the oversized square shape that dominated the era. I’ll also show you…
If you’re looking to create a glamorous vintage look inspired by Old Hollywood, finding the perfect red lipstick is key. There are many shades and formulas to choose from, so it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you discover the best red lipsticks that will give you that classic, Old Hollywood…
Are you looking for fall outfit ideas inspired by the style icon Princess Diana? She was known for her impeccable and elegant looks, often adoring the colour red, which happens to be one of my favourites, too. Coincidentally, it’s also the most fashionable hue of the season, a classic that never goes out of style. In this post, I will…
My name is Dominique de Merteuil. I’m a vintage fashion blogger, founder, and sole author of It’s Beyond My Control, your ultimate guide to vintage fashion from the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s. With over two decades of experience, meticulous research, and a deep passion for authentic vintage clothing, I specialise in the styles, silhouettes, and foundation garments of these eras, which I wear daily. Through this blog, I share the timeless beauty of bygone eras, blending historical insight with real-life styling and original vintage pieces. My work is rooted in both scholarship and lived experience, bringing vintage fashion to life beyond the archives and into the modern wardrobe.
