Dress Shop in Exeter  

Hundreds of Vintage Dresses in Exeter, With Personal Service and Styling… 

Welcome to our charming boutique in Exeter, where we have a delightful assortment of vintage dresses. Each dress embodies more than just fashion; it embodies individuality and personal style. With over six years of experience, we have been privileged to dress countless young ladies in unique vintage pieces. Our collection is truly extraordinary, catering to all tastes and preferences.

Our knowledgeable consultants are here to assist you in exploring our diverse range of dresses, ensuring you find the perfect one that resonates with your style. Step into our Exeter store and allow us to guide you towards a dress that exudes confidence and leaves you looking stunning. We take immense pride in our exceptional team, which is deeply passionate about crafting a look that reflects your individuality. The favourable comments we receive about our dress collections and personalised customer service are a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional experience. In addition to our exquisite collection of dresses, we also offer a selection of shoes and evening bags that perfectly complement our stunning garments.

Whether you are attending a ball, black-tie event, evening function, or graduation, our dresses are designed to make a lasting impression. Feel free to peruse our collection at your leisure, and let us help you discover the perfect ensemble that celebrates your unique style.    

Find Your Confidence in Classic Style at Frocks in Swing Time  

Frocks in Swing Time stands as a charming boutique nestled in the heart of Exeter, offering an exquisite selection of vintage treasures. Our goal revolves around empowering individuals to discover joy and self-assurance through their unique sense of style. Drawing inspiration from the elegant eras of the 1920s, 1940s, and 1950s, our diverse range caters to all body shapes and sizes.

At Frocks in Swing Time, we place the utmost importance on providing genuine, old-fashioned customer service that leaves you feeling magnificent in your chosen ensemble. As a beloved family-owned business, our passion for all things vintage, particularly fashion, led to the establishment of this magical store.

Following Hayley’s successful ventures at vintage fairs and festivals, she and Gary decided to embark on a new adventure and relocated to the charming county of Devon in 2018. The doors of our exquisite shop on Fore Street, Exeter, were joyfully opened to welcome fellow vintage enthusiasts. We warmly invite you to visit us and indulge in an unforgettable shopping experience tailored to your individual desires and showcasing exceptional customer service.  

A tailored shopping experience in Exeter  

Our vintage styles  

Throughout the 20th century, society exerted a profound influence on fashion trends, giving rise to a plethora of style inspirations. Each passing decade bestows upon us a unique silhouette that strikes a chord with individuals from all walks of life. It is unsurprising that people often find themselves enthralled by a particular era that resonates with their sensibilities.

For instance, some are irresistibly drawn to the graceful drop-waisted fashions of the 1920s, while others find themselves spellbound by the impeccably tailored garments of the 1930s. The ingenious draping techniques and artful cuts employed during the 1940s also hold an irresistible allure, just as the dazzling glamour of the 1950s and the refined elegance of the early 60s never fail to captivate

1920’s Dress Shop in Exeter 

In parallel to the transformative momentum experienced in the 1940s, the fashion of the 1920s emerged as an unmistakable reflection of the profound societal changes that followed the culmination of World War I. Undoubtedly, this period bore witness to more profound shifts than any other era, particularly in terms of the evolving role of women in post-war society. Notably, these changes found resonance in the realm of fashion, as women began to discard restricting corsets and stifling attire in favour of garments that prioritised comfort and functionality.

A deeper exploration into the annals of fashion history reveals that the evolution of 1920s fashion was not only easily traceable but also remarkably revolutionary. It marked a stark departure from the previous era of the Edwardian Gibson girl, with her matronly silhouettes. Instead, the fashion of the 1920s heralded the dawn of the modern era as we perceive it today, where clothing became a potent instrument for self-expression, accessible to a wider demographic beyond just the affluent. This was an era when various cultural movements burgeoned in the major cities of the Western world, such as the opulent “bright young things” in London society or the vibrant jazz movement in New Orleans.  

1940’s Dress Shop in Exeter 

When contemplating the fashion trends of the 1940s, it is only natural to envision the irresistible charm of pin-up glamour and the practical ensembles worn by Land Army girls during the war. Floral print tea dance dresses, wedge shoes, and brogues often spring to mind, epitomising the ultra-feminine style that defined the era. Yet, let us not forget the ingenious techniques employed by designers who navigated the constraints of austerity guidelines.

These talented individuals expertly incorporated simple yet stunning draping techniques, introduced peplums and shoulder pads to even the most basic designs, and crafted the mesmerising Film Noir aesthetic that continues to captivate us to this day. The fashion of the 1940s stands as a shining example of how external factors, be they politics, culture, or social circumstances, hold immense influence over trends.

This decade bore witness to significant changes, and it is important to note that the now nostalgically celebrated 1940s look only represents a mere fraction of this era. It was not until 1947, with Dior’s ground-breaking new look, that the fashion landscape truly shifted.  

1950’s Dress Shop in Exeter 

The mere mention of 1950s fashion conjures up visions of radiant summer days, where glamorous silhouettes, vibrant prints, and the iconic exaggeration of voluminous skirts and tiny waists reigned supreme. During this era, two main silhouettes emerged as the epitome of 1950s fashion: the wasp waist with a full skirt and the slim-fitting pencil skirt. Each style embodies the era’s essence, radiating allure and playfulness depending on how it is adorned.

What makes 1950s fashion truly remarkable lies in its versatility, catering to individuals of all body shapes. Embracing the womanly aesthetic of the era, this fashion era offers a diverse range of styles that beautifully enhance and accentuate one’s natural curves. For those seeking more pronounced curves, a touch of creativity through the use of belts, foundation garments, and carefully selected net and padding effortlessly creates the desired effect.

Our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you through the process, ensuring that you leave our boutique feeling like the epitome of 1950s elegance.  

Choose Frocks in Swing Time as your go-to shop for vintage clothes in Exeter.  

Discover the hidden gem of Exeter’s vintage scene at Frocks in Swing Time, the ultimate destination for all your retro fashion needs. Prepare to be transported to a bygone era as you embark on a delightful shopping adventure, guided by our knowledgeable and attentive staff. At Frocks in Swing Time, we pride ourselves on catering to every body type and size, offering a wide selection of styles that capture the essence of the enchanting 20s, 40s, and 50s.  

Our passion for vintage fashion runs deep, and it is this passion that led us to create a beloved family business that has become a staple in Exeter. Located on Fore Street, our charming shop is a testament to our commitment to providing an exceptional shopping experience. As you step through our doors, you will be greeted with personalized attention, ensuring that every minute you spend with us is filled with joy and satisfaction.  

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Frocks in Swing Time, where exquisite garments await you, along with the happiness and confidence that come from dressing in a way that reflects your unique style. Our goal is not just to sell clothing, but to help you discover the true essence of vintage fashion and express your individuality.  

Do not just take our word for it; come and experience the exceptional customer service first-hand by visiting our store. We eagerly await the opportunity to assist you on your journey towards finding your own distinctive style.  

Our Lovely Vintage Shop in Exeter