The Top 5 Vintage-Style Dressmakers for the Modern Woman

With the surge of cottagecore aesthetic, vintage fashion has seen an uptick in interest in recent years, so discovering the top 5 vintage-style dressmakers today, can help the modern woman find their own cottagecore style that is relevant for the modern woman. Vintage fashion has an undeniable charm, effortlessly combining nostalgia with timeless elegance. For those who appreciate the beauty of yesteryears, vintage-style dressmakers offer a treasure trove of options. Today, we’ll explore five exceptional dressmakers: Son de Flor, Of Her Own Kind, Wilder Collective, Linen Naive, and Linen Vibes. I’ll reveal my personal favorite—spoiler alert, it’s Son de Flor—but it’s worth noting that each of these brands brings something unique and wonderful to the table. Let’s dive into what makes each of these dressmakers special, considering their fabric choices, the eras that inspire their designs, affordability, and customer reviews.

1. Son de Flor

Era Inspiration: 1950s A-line (cottagecore style)

Son de Flor draws inspiration from the classic 1950s, an era known for its elegant and feminine silhouettes. Their designs often feature full skirts, Peter Pan collars, and delicate embroidery, evoking a sense of grace and simplicity. Son de Flor emphasizes slow fashion production, which emphasizes a slower and smaller production of high quality clothing, rather than an emphasis on mass production of low quality clothing. 

Fabric Options: Linen

The brand is renowned for its use of high-quality linen. They use 100% linen. This natural fabric not only adds to the vintage aesthetic but also ensures comfort and durability. The linen used by Son de Flor is sustainably sourced, aligning with modern eco-conscious values. The brand also emphasizes the importance that their fashion can “stand the test of time”. Each piece is made to be worn, loved, and passed down to future generations.  

Affordability: Mid to High Range ($200-$300 with sales prices in the $100s)

Son de Flor dresses are priced in the mid to high range, reflecting their superior craftsmanship and the quality of materials used. While they may be an investment, their timeless appeal and durability make them worth every penny.

Customer Reviews:

Reviews for Son de Flor are overwhelmingly positive. Customers rave about the quality of the fabric, the meticulous attention to detail, and the flattering fit of the dresses. Many appreciate the brand’s commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices.

2. Of Her Own Kind

Era Inspiration: 1920s-1940s (also some inspirations from peasant prairie dresses of the 1800s)

Of Her Own Kind channels the glamor and sophistication of the 1920s to 1940s. Their designs often feature intricate detailing, such as lace inserts and delicate buttons, which capture the essence of these decades. They have also joined the movement toward slow fashion and produce a smaller selection of high quality clothing. 

Fabric Options: Silk, Cotton, Linen

This brand offers a variety of fabric options, including silk, cotton, and linen. Each material is chosen to enhance the vintage-inspired designs, providing a luxurious feel and beautiful drape.

Affordability: High End 

Of Her Own Kind dresses are high-end priced, making them tailored to a more specific buyer, however this is for good reason. Their dresses are made with organic and natural fibers that are non-toxic to your skin and naturally biodegrade over time. Their dresses are of heirloom quality and are crafted beautifully inside and out. They are meant to be worn and passed down to future generations and are made locally in New York by women-owned ateliers. They use plastic free recyclable packaging. 

Customer Reviews:

Customers appreciate the versatility and elegance of Of Her Own Kind’s designs. Reviews highlight the high-quality materials and the brand’s ability to capture the essence of vintage fashion while maintaining modern comfort.

Era Inspiration: 1960s-1970s (with some hints of 1800s peasant prairie life)

Wilder Collective takes inspiration from the very feminine bohemian vibes of the 1960s and 1970s. Their designs often feature flowing silhouettes, floral patterns, and earthy tones, perfect for those who love a free-spirited, boho-chic aesthetic. Although they have a solid boho style, it’s impossible to miss their 1800s prairie life design inspiration as well. It’s a perfect marriage between the two styles. 

Fabric Options: Organic Cotton, Hemp, Bamboo

The brand is committed to sustainability, using organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo fabrics. These materials not only contribute to a relaxed, natural look but also support eco-friendly fashion practices. Their dresses are “ethically crafted in India and Indonesia” supporting local skilled artisans. 

Affordability: Mid to high range (about $175 – $250 per dress with sale prices in the $125-$150 range) 

Wilder Collective offers a range of price points, making their dresses accessible to a broad audience. Their commitment to sustainable materials also adds value to their offerings.

Customer Reviews:

Reviews for Wilder Collective are positive, with customers praising the comfortable, breathable fabrics and the unique, bohemian-inspired designs. Many appreciate the brand’s dedication to sustainability and ethical production.

Era Inspiration: 1930s-1950s with consistent inspiration from Victorian era corset dresses, and early 1900s pintuck dresses.

Linennaive

combines influences from several different eras, appealing to almost all vintage dress enthusiasts tastes and style. They are known for creating timeless pieces that are both elegant and practical. Their designs often feature simple lines, subtle details, and a focus on functionality.

Fabric Options: Linen, Organic Cotton

True to their name, Linennaive primarily uses linen and organic cotton. These fabrics enhance the vintage aesthetic while ensuring comfort and breathability.

Affordability: Affordable Mid Range ($100 – $200)

Linennaive’s dresses are moderately priced, offering good value for the quality and sustainability of the materials used. Their focus on timeless designs means that each piece can be a long-term addition to your wardrobe.

Customer Reviews:

Customers love the simplicity and elegance of Linennaive’s designs. Reviews highlight the quality of the fabrics and the timeless appeal of the dresses. Many also appreciate the brand’s commitment to sustainability.

Era Inspiration: 1940s-1960s.  

Linen Vibes

draws inspiration from 1940s-1960s, blending vintage charm with contemporary flair. Their designs often feature playful patterns, bold colors, and flattering silhouettes. Their slogan emphasizes that they “bring historical grace into modern outfits”. They pull inspiration from cottagecore styles, romantic era bodices, and medieval fairytale designs. 

Fabric Options: Linen, Organic Cotton, Tencel

The brand uses a mix of linen, organic cotton, and Tencel, ensuring that their dresses are not only stylish but also sustainable. These materials are chosen for their comfort and eco-friendliness.

Linen Vibes is one of the more affordable options on this list, making their vintage-inspired dresses accessible to a wider audience. Their use of sustainable materials also adds to their appeal.

Reviews for Linen Vibes are positive, with customers appreciating the fun, vibrant designs and the comfortable fabrics. Many also praise the affordability of the dresses and the brand’s commitment to sustainability. As an added plus their fabrics are machine washable and resistant to ware.