Paris stands as a top destination for vintage shopping, offering endless treasures for those hunting for rare finds, whether it’s Y2K styles or items from renowned French fashion houses. During Paris Fashion Week, Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner showcased their exquisite vintage pieces—Bieber with a stylish Chanel bag and metallic Manolo Blahnik slingbacks, while Jenner carried a striking ruby red Gucci clutch. These standout accessories weren’t just found in a boutique in Le Marais, but rather sourced from The Vintage Marché, a Los Angeles haven for vintage designer finds.
Lili Aghaei, the founder of The Vintage Marché, launched her venture in 2023 out of a personal passion, while pregnant. Initially curating rare shoe collections on Instagram, her project blossomed into an international enterprise, now offering monthly drops that include handbags and accessories. Think: Tom Ford-era Gucci, flawlessly preserved Fendi baguettes, buttery leather Chanel loafers, and classic Prada bags.
“I pay meticulous attention to condition, authenticity, and detail,” Aghaei states. “Each piece I curate is one I’d be proud to own, and this dedication has built trust among stylists, influencers, and celebrities who seek out my rare finds.”
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The stylish finds of Bieber and Jenner were curated by their stylist Dani Michelle and her assistant Elizabeth Mahon.
“Michelle is truly one of the most heartfelt individuals in fashion,” shares Aghaei. “I host a private LA showroom for stylists and VIPs where they can explore and select from our latest arrivals.” Michelle handpicked a number of new arrivals, which both stars opted to purchase.
Aghaei reveals that Bieber’s vintage black grosgrain Chanel handbag, embellished with a crystal-embellished gold-tone CC logo, is a special 1990s rarity. “Finding this style in pristine condition is a real challenge today,” notes Aghaei. The Manolo Blahnik slingbacks are from the late ’90s or early 2000s, iconic of the Sex and the City era when metallic Manolos were the must-have shoe.
“This Chanel piece holds a special place for me—it’s the third time I’ve sourced it, and each time it disappears in moments.”
The Chanel handbag acquired by Hailey Bieber from The Vintage Marché.Photo: The Vintage Marché
Jenner bought two vintage Gucci lizard clutches—one in a luxurious Bordeaux hue and a smaller black version. “These clutches are classic pieces from the 1980s, when Gucci released a line of exotic-skin evening bags with subtle, minimal hardware,” explains Aghaei. “We’ve managed to source this clutch in multiple colors and sizes over the past few months, and they keep selling out quickly.” They plan to release two more in an upcoming Fall collection on October 15.
Sydney Sweeney was among Aghaei’s first significant celebrity moments—her stylist, Molly Dickson, selected a vintage Prada pony-hair shoulder bag for her Stagecoach appearance. Aghaei has also build a collaborative relationship with Nina Dobrev and her stylist Lauren Jeworski. “I looked up to her for years while watching The Vampire Diaries, and now she’s donning and even renting pieces from us for Paris Fashion Week,” Aghaei shares. The true enchantment, however, lies with the loyal clients returning consistently for monthly collections.
It’s a challenge for Aghaei to resist keeping items for herself; she has a particular fondness for the Tom Ford Gucci Slim Horsebit bags from the ’90s. “Its minimalist shape is perpetually chic and a classic example of understated luxury,” she states. “Its design has only gained relevance, with Gucci even reintroducing the slim Horsebit in their 2023 collection, highlighting its timeless appeal. We’re fortunate to have secured several of these vintage originals, along with a few from the latest collection.”
The Gucci lizard clutches acquired by Kendall Jenner from The Vintage Marché.Photo: The Vintage Marché
Aghaei shares her insights for finding and purchasing vintage items effectively: Condition is paramount, but she adds, “trust your instincts for timeless design.” Her main advice is to be discerning: not every vintage piece is worth acquiring. She seeks quality craftsmanship, flawless condition, and styles that resonate with contemporary relevance. Rarity is important, yet not at the cost of durability—a rare but damaged item won’t be of value. The allure of exceptional vintage is when it evokes nostalgia while feeling utterly modern, a piece that truly endures.
The Vintage Marché has four upcoming drops scheduled in 2025, reflecting seasonal trends. Expect brown suedes, animal patterns, and transitional essentials like loafers and ballet flats. They’ll also feature slingbacks similar to Bieber’s, and are set to include vibrant jewel-toned satin accessories, alongside shoulder bags, structured top-handles, and clutch styles. “As usual, we’re continuing our quest for rare treasures from the luxury brands we’re celebrated for: Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Celine, and Fendi,” Aghaei explains. “Our focus remains on pieces that are both nostalgically rich and strikingly current—delivering treasures that rejuvenate winter dressing.”
The Vintage Marché’s next collection drops on October 15 at 9 a.m. PST