Lancashire: Thirteen-year-old Mia Rayne has developed a passion for 1950s vintage fashion, overcoming bullying to celebrate her unique style. With a burgeoning wardrobe of 50 outfits, she inspires others through social media while encouraging individuality and self-acceptance amidst challenges.
A 13-year-old girl from Lancashire, Mia Rayne, is embracing a passion for vintage fashion, particularly the styles of the 1950s. Mia, who describes her affinity for feminine clothing as a lifelong interest, became captivated by this vintage aesthetic after watching a YouTube video on vintage dolls. This newfound fascination led to the growth of a wardrobe that now boasts around 50 outfits, mainly consisting of dresses, underskirts, and vintage coats.
Mia’s journey into retro fashion began with a vintage-style dress from Shein, a birthday gift from her mother, Jodie, who is 37 and runs her own business. Since then, both mother and daughter have taken to searching for long-sleeved dresses and Peter Pan-collared frocks at vintage shops and through online platforms like Vinted.
Despite faced with bullying at school, where peers mockingly compared her appearance to that of ‘Mary Poppins’, Mia continues to confidently wear her vintage clothing daily, including to school. Jodie commented, “She was bullied when she went to school wearing one of those coats… The boys say ‘you look like Mary Poppins—what are you wearing?’ She says ‘now I’m going full vintage. I’m going to show you and be even more extra’.”
Mia’s interests extend beyond fashion; she also enjoys crocheting, carrying her hooks and books wherever she goes. Remarkably, she has chosen not to have a television in her room, opting instead for a record player and a collection of dolls, a choice which her mother describes as indicative of Mia’s unique personality. “She’s literally an old woman. It’s like she’s been reincarnated to a 1950s housewife or something,” Jodie said, expressing admiration for her daughter’s confidence and individuality.
Mia’s wardrobe has become a source of inspiration for others, with many expressing admiration for her bold style choices through social media. Reflecting on her love for vintage fashion, Mia shared, “I have found it interesting to find out about different styles. My favourite is a blue dress—it’s 19th century and a long button-up pretty dress with old lace. I fell in love with it.”
Jodie has noted how Mia has always exhibited a unique sense of style, recalling how she would dress up in princess costumes for everyday outings. As time has progressed, Mia’s personal style has evolved, and she continues to bravely embrace her love for fashion, encouraging others to feel comfortable in their own skin. “Make yourself feel like you fit in with yourself—not with other people. Everybody should be more crazy,” Mia advised.
Although she has faced challenges, the response to Mia’s vintage fashion advocacy, particularly on platforms like TikTok, has been overwhelmingly positive, with supportive messages flooding in from a community that acknowledges her authenticity. Jodie noted, “The confidence overnight was phenomenal. There were thousands of comments saying ‘just be yourself’ and ‘I wish I had your confidence’.”
Mia’s aspirations extend beyond merely fashions; she dreams of becoming an actor and is signed with Little Allstars. Jodie, proud of her daughter’s journey, hopes that Mia’s story can encourage others to both wear what they love and embrace their individuality.
Source: Noah Wire Services
