Vintage Lingerie
A Curated Collection of Timeless Vintage Lingerie
Step into the world of What Katie Did, where the golden age of lingerie lives on through our meticulously crafted vintage-inspired collections. Every piece in our extensive range pays homage to the glamour and sophistication of mid-century undergarments, expertly reimagined for the modern woman.
Founded in 1999 by vintage fashion enthusiast Katie, our collection represents over two decades of dedication to preserving and recreating the most beloved lingerie styles of the 1940s and 1950s. Each design draws inspiration from Katie's personal collection of true vintage pieces, lovingly sourced from vintage shops and flea markets across London, Paris, and Los Angeles over the past 30 years.
1940s Lingerie
Our 1940s lingerie collection embraces the soft femininity of the era, featuring delicate French knickers, gentle cup bras, and classic suspender belts that capture the understated elegance of wartime fashion.
1950s Lingerie
Moving into our 1950s lingerie pieces, you'll discover the iconic silhouettes that defined the decade – from sculptural bullet bras and figure-hugging girdles to sophisticated merry widow basques and powerful waist cinchers. This revolutionary period also welcomed the introduction of underwired bras, marking a new chapter in lingerie innovation.
What sets our retro lingerie apart is our commitment to historical accuracy. Until the 1980s, no lingerie set was complete without its matching suspender belt, as stockings were an essential element of a woman's daily dress. We honor this tradition throughout our collection, ensuring every set offers the complete vintage experience.
Our dedication to authenticity and quality hasn't gone unnoticed – What Katie Did lingerie is regularly sought after by film and television wardrobe departments worldwide, appearing in countless productions that require genuine vintage-style undergarments. Each piece we create combines historical accuracy with modern comfort and durability, making vintage lingerie accessible to everyone who appreciates its timeless appeal.
While vintage clothing from the 1940s and 1950s was once readily available, original vintage lingerie pieces are incredibly rare – and understandably, many prefer not to wear such intimate items from the past. Our collection solves this dilemma by offering brand new lingerie that captures all the charm and character of genuine vintage pieces.
Browse our complete collection above, and use our helpful category links at the bottom of the page to explore specific styles and eras. Whether you're seeking the perfect bullet bra, a classic girdle, or a complete vintage-inspired lingerie set, you'll find it in our carefully curated collection.