Winnie Photo

My background is in Fashion Design. I graduated from Northumbria University in 1999. From there I worked as a embroidery designer notably for Rebecca Taylor and Megan Park. In 2005 I launched my own label ‘Mauvette’. It was 'vintage inspired’ embroidered clothing and it was stocked in various stores around the world such as Anthropologie in the US, Isetan in Japan, Harvey Nichols in Saudi Arabia and The Cross and Donna Aida in London.

I guess looking back I was honing my eye for vintage whilst working as a fashion designer. It was at one of these vintage sourcing trips that I stumbled upon a stylish, but old loved quilted handbag at a vintage fair in Hammersmith, London.

Only later, on closer inspection did I realise I had acquired a classic vintage 1960s Chanel Handbag. I was instantly hooked! This fateful purchase fuelled a desire to collect and research all things Chanel.

As a fashion designer I am extremely fortunate that my job has taken me to many countries. In my spare time I would continue my obsession hunting down vintage Chanel hand bags to fuel my growing passion. Vintage Heirloom was born after years of continued demand from (pleading!) friends and family.

Through years of purchasing and sourcing Vintage Chanel I gained invaluable experience of authenticating genuine Chanel.

Only later, on closer inspection did I realise I had acquired a classic vintage 1960s Chanel Handbag.

I am particularly attracted to styles from the 60s to the 90s period as I feel these eras epitomise the chic founding values of Chanel, elegance, style and quality. The average age of bag I source is about 15-20 years old.

Due to my connections in the fashion business I was approached to supply to top UK stores in London including Matches fashion, Harvey Nichols and Asos.com. We now supply to the prestigious On Pedder store in Hong Kong, with more on the way! We are one the select few recognised suppliers to these top stores.