The Best Vintage Lingerie — Timeless Favourites Inspired by the 1950s
At What Katie Did, we’ve spent over two decades reimagining the best vintage lingerie for modern wear. From curve-defining waspies to perfectly seamed stockings, our designs are inspired by the craftsmanship and silhouette of mid-century couture. Each piece blends authentic 1940s and 1950s detailing with modern comfort — because true glamour never goes out of style.
Below you’ll find the pieces our customers return to time and again. These aren’t fleeting fashion trends, but enduring icons that capture the spirit of the best 1950s lingerie: elegant, structured, and unfailingly flattering.
Black Seamed Stockings – A Timeless Essential
Our Black Seamed Stockings are an undisputed bestseller — and for good reason. Once reserved for evening glamour, black seams now add instant polish to daywear too. Whether you’re dressing for the office or a night out, they bring a touch of vintage sophistication that defines the What Katie Did aesthetic.
Glamour Waspie Cincher – Sculpted 1950s Curves
The Glamour Waspie Cincher is one of our most beloved shapewear staples. Inspired by the precise construction of mid-century couture, it smooths and defines the waist for that unmistakable hourglass shape. Worn under dresses, skirts, or high-waisted trousers, it’s a true icon of 1950s lingerie design — structured yet supremely wearable.
Contrast Seamed Stockings – Champagne & Black
Our Champagne and Black Seamed Stockings remain one of the most sought-after combinations in vintage hosiery. The soft nude leg contrasts beautifully with the inky black foot, seam, and welt — a pairing that evokes the elegance of silver-screen starlets while remaining endlessly versatile.
Champagne Latte Seamed Stockings – Daywear Perfection
The Champagne Latte Seamed Stockings capture the subtler side of 1950s style. With their light leg and latte-toned seam, they mirror the understated sophistication of daytime fashions from the golden age of glamour. For collectors and vintage enthusiasts, they embody the best 1950s lingerie — refined, graceful, and authentic.
Glamour Waist Cincher – Mid-Century Magic
Our Glamour Waist Cincher offers firm control and a flawless foundation beneath tailored outfits. With its panelled construction and smooth finish, it recreates the sculpted silhouettes that defined the era. It’s little wonder this piece remains one of our all-time bestsellers — a cornerstone of the best vintage lingerie wardrobe.
CC09 1940s Satin French Knickers – True to the Originals
The CC09 Satin French Knickers are crafted from an original 1940s British pattern, combining historic authenticity with modern wearability. The result is an elegant, flowing silhouette that feels every bit as luxurious as it looks — proof that vintage style can be both practical and timeless.
Padded Bullet Bra – A Mid-Century Icon
Our Padded Bullet Bra remains a cornerstone of our collection. With its circular stitching and softly pointed cups, it recreates the sculpted shape made famous by 1950s sweater girls. Designed especially for smaller cup sizes, it provides gentle lift and impeccable retro charm.
Maitresse Black Suspender Belt – Everyday Elegance
The Maitresse Suspender Belt perfectly balances form and function. Crafted from satin and powermesh with six straps for secure hold, it keeps your stockings flawlessly in place — an everyday essential for lovers of vintage style.
Harlow Peach Bullet Bra – Screen-Siren Glamour
Nothing says vintage femininity quite like the Harlow Bullet Bra. Made from lustrous peach satin, it captures the warmth and radiance of true mid-century lingerie. Soft-cup, non-wired, and beautifully structured, it’s a defining piece of the best 1950s lingerie.
Contrast Red Seamed Stockings – The Original Statement
Our Contrast Red Seamed Stockings were the first colourful seams we ever made — and they’ve been turning heads for over 20 years. With a sheer champagne leg and striking lipstick-red seam, they add playful glamour to every outfit and remain a customer favourite.
Discover Your Vintage Favourites
From bullet bras to waspies, each piece in our best vintage lingerie collection celebrates the enduring beauty of classic design. These timeless styles have graced silver screens, inspired fashion stylists, and become staples in wardrobes around the world.
Explore our Trending Now page to discover your favourites — and perhaps uncover a hidden gem or two from the golden age of glamour.