90s Chanel might be my most enduring fashion obsession. The juxtaposition of prim, buttoned-up tweed suits with ultra-mini skirts has led me to cut up more vintage suits than I’d like to admit. What I love most about this look is that it’s been accessible to me at every stage of my life, regardless of my budget.
In our modern capitalist sludge world, you could probably source a Chanel “dupe” on the dark web that is SHEIN and the like. But I’d suggest a far friendlier—and more rewarding—approach: up-cycling a vintage suit.
Hit the thrift store jungle and you’re bound to find innumerable options. If you stumble across a pink one, consider yourself blessed—but truly any color will do.
On eBay, try searching terms like “vintage tweed suit” or include a decade, which often yields great results—something like “1990s tweed suit.” I also recommend filtering by pre-owned condition, selecting women’s vintage, and using the decade filter if available.
Always pay attention to the fabric composition and construction. This is what truly separates vintage clothing from fast fashion. A quality wool tweed with a silk lining feels worlds apart from its modern polyester counterpart.
Investing in well-made garments often leads to less overconsumption and waste. That doesn’t mean spending a lot of money—thrift stores are full of incredible materials if you know what to look for: wool, cashmere, silk, and cotton. The real investment can simply be your time—searching patiently for the right piece.
Online sourcing can be a bit pricier, but always remember your budget and sort price low to high when browsing.
I recommend measuring against a mini skirt you already love the length of, then giving yourself a little room for error. Try it on first, and once the length feels right, finish the edge with a serger and hem it cleanly.
If you get old and crazy like me, eventually you might start sourcing real Chanel.
I purchased a Chanel Spring/Summer 1993 corset as my wedding look, and it’s truly a dream piece. If you’re hunting for authentic Chanel at better prices, try sourcing items separately—like the jacket and skirt instead of buying a full set.
Japanese sellers often have some of the best designer prices online. I once found a Chanel Cruise 2004 marshmallow bag on Japanese Mercari for $170. I’ve never seen it listed for less than $500 anywhere else since. Sometimes the real investment here isn’t money—it’s patience.
Check out this affordably runway piece on The RealReal. There are some more accessible vintage Chanel items if you stay on the hunt.
When I wear Chanel—or a Chanel-inspired outfit—I feel uplifted and inspired. It’s no surprise to me that the 2023 Barbie movie leaned heavily on 90s Chanel looks.
These outfits carry a sense of wonder: rich textures, luxurious details, and a playful spirit that doesn’t take itself too seriously—just like Barbie. They capture girlhood and womanhood at the same time, wrapping the wearer in a kind of sartorial fantasy.
Shirley Gertrude 
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