Lou Hickey is one cool girl. The Scottish singer-songwriter (formerly one half of Codeine Velvet Club with Jon Fratelli) is obsessed with all things vintage, and it influences everything from her 1950s/1960s pop sound to her incredible style to the way she parties.
If you want to see what we mean, get yourself to Blackfriars Basement in Glasgow - Lou co-hosts speakeasy-style night Too Darn Hot on the first Saturday of each month.
We got up close and personal with the musician's enviable vintage-filled closet (and realised we seriously need to stock up on retro lace prom dresses)...
What sparked your interest in vintage fashion?
I grew up watching movies like Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and On the Town. I always loved the elegant, feminine style.
Where are your favourite places to source vintage items?
I don't go looking for vintage - it seems to find me, and that's how I know it's meant to be. I do enjoy some of the vintage fairs though, like at Òran Mór, and seeing all the different stalls. One of my favourite dresses is from Saratoga Trunk in Glasgow.
What are your favourite vintage eras and style icons?
I love the 1940s and 1950s: beautiful swing dresses and petticoats, pencil skirts, tartans, polka dots, cropped jeans, check shirts. Style icons: Dita Von Teese, Marilyn Monroe, Jane Russell and Grace Kelly.
Do you have a favourite vintage beauty look?
I like to keep it simple. Fairly nude eyes, flicked liner and bold lips. For hair, backcombing is the way! A bit of height in your hair always looks great! I always carry red lipstick in my bag and blusher in case I need to smarten up quickly.
What are some of your top tips for scouring the best vintage pieces?
I would say shop around. Vintage is cool now, and lots of boutiques are cashing in on it big time. To be honest though, most of my best vintage buys have not been from "vintage" shops. I've found them in charity shops (rich areas are the best!) craft shops and a few pieces online as well from eBay.
What are some of your tips for styling vintage outfits?
Less is always more. Keep it simple and elegant. Only one statement piece of jewellery. To me, a pretty pencil dress/skirt with killer heels and some chandelier earrings is always a winner.