

2025’s Most Sought-After Vintage Designer Pieces
Collecting fashion with an eye toward the future? The RealReal has tapped into the new year with our crystal ball (and our 2024 Luxury Resale Report) to predict the vintage designer trends 2025 will experience. Investing in these 10 top pieces could be a smart (and stylish) choice for the upcoming year.
Manolo Blahnik Hangisi Pumps
Made famous by Sex and the City when Carrie Bradshaw wore them in the long-awaited movie, these jewel-adorned satin pumps are as timeless as the series’ romantic drama. The Hangisi Pump was originally introduced in 2008 and has remained a staple in Manolo’s collection since. The resurgence of luxury formalwear and statement shoes makes them a must-have for collectors and fans of Y2K-era fashion. Manolo Blahnik was also the number one searched brand by Gen Z shoppers using The RealReal in 2024—could it have to do with Netflix’s acquisition of the show in April?
Hermes Kelly
The Hermes Kelly Bag is a timeless symbol of luxury, craftsmanship and exclusivity that’s once again making major waves across social media. Originally designed in the 1930s, this classic bag was rebranded in 1956 after Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco famously used it to shield her pregnancy from paparazzi. The Kelly since became an icon, synonymous with elegance and sophistication. While this staple of Hermes luxury collections transcends seasons, TikTok stars like Sophia Richie breathed new life into this vintage classic.
The Kelly Bag is one of the few luxury items that consistently appreciates in value. Vintage models, especially those in rare colors or exotic leathers, often sell for significantly more than their original price. According to our 2024 Resale Report, the average Kelly bag sold on our site sells for about 50% above MSRP. That’s right—this bag functions as both a statement piece and a long-term investment.
John Galliano Newspaper Print Dress
The John Galliano Newspaper Print Dress is an iconic piece that epitomizes Galliano’s bold and theatrical design approach. First introduced during his tenure at Dior in the early 2000s, this dress features a striking newspaper print motif, inspired by the lead designer’s fascination with storytelling and visual drama. Galliano created this print to resemble a collage of news clippings, blending fashion with an editorial aesthetic that was both innovative and provocative.
Another vintage must-have made popular by Sex and the City, Galliano newspaper prints’ avant-garde appeal aligns with the resurgence of Y2K nostalgia and bold statement pieces in modern fashion trends. The dress’ rarity and connection to Galliano’s Dior era make it a highly sought-after collector item. Its investment potential is further bolstered by Galliano’s enduring influence on fashion and the increasing demand for archival pieces from his most celebrated collections.
Vivienne Westwood Pirate Boots
Want a more edgy fashion investment? Consider the Vivienne Westwood vintage pirate boots from the 1981 Pirates collection. These statement boots are a quintessential piece of fashion history, embodying the rebellious and avant-garde spirit that defines Westwood’s legacy. Known for her one-of-a-kind punk-inspired creations, Westwood found that these boots quickly became a symbol of her pioneering approach to innovative, dramatic fashion.
Featuring oversized tongues, buckle straps and a slouchy silhouette, the boots broke away from traditional footwear designs, offering a rugged yet theatrical aesthetic. These boots are not only a nod to Westwood’s punk roots but also to her flair for incorporating historical references into modern design. They’ve been spotted on contemporary style icons like Harry Styles and Bella Hadid, aligning with the current trend for vintage-inspired, gender-fluid fashion. Their unisex appeal and timeless design make them a favorite among collectors and fans of alternative style alike.
Dolce & Gabbana Corset Top
Dolce & Gabbana corset tops are a defining symbol of the brand’s sultry, glamorous aesthetic, blending Italian luxury with bold, body-conscious design. Emerging as a signature piece during the 1990s, these corset tops are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, featuring luxurious fabrics like silk and velvet combined with intricate boning and embellishments. These sexy tops exude a sensual elegance that perfectly encapsulates Dolce & Gabbana’s celebration of the feminine form.
These tops gained fame through high-profile appearances, with one of their most notable appearances being on Madonna during her Blonde Ambition tour in the early 90s. Today, the resurgence of 1990s fashion and lingerie-inspired trends has brought these corset tops back into the spotlight, with celebrities like Dua Lipa and Sabrina Carpenter embracing their vintage appeal. Their structured design and opulent materials make them perfect for both statement evening wear and edgy, modern styling. Whether styled with high-waisted trousers for a sophisticated look or layered over casual pieces for a bold twist, these corset tops remain versatile and iconic.
Prada Nylon Re-Issue Bags
A favorite of 2024, the Prada nylon re-issue will continue to be a favorite among vintage collectors in 2025 and beyond. A perfect fusion of the company’s minimalist heritage and contemporary relevance, the nylon mini-bag originally gained prominence in the 1990s with famous fans like Paris Hilton toting them to star-studded events. These nylon bags quickly became iconic for their sleek, utilitarian design and rainbow of color options.
The Re-Edition line, introduced in recent years, revitalized these classic pieces, bringing them back into the spotlight while staying true to their original essence. Featuring a lightweight, durable nylon body paired with leather trims and the signature Prada triangle logo, these bags exude understated luxury while also providing an easy way to add a little vintage flair to any outfit.
The resurgence of Y2K fashion trends has propelled the Re-Edition bags into high demand, making them a staple among fashion enthusiasts and collectors. Celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber have been spotted carrying them, reinforcing their status as a must-have accessory. Their versatility is a key appeal—they transition seamlessly from casual streetwear to more polished, high-fashion looks, transcending seasonal trends.
Find Your Next Great Vintage Gem
Eager to browse one-of-a-kind, pre-loved vintage fashion finds? Shop vintage pieces from brands like Vivienne Westwood, Dior and thousands more at up to 90% off with The RealReal. Browse authenticated luxury, and consign your pre-loved items now.