Jennifer Aniston Is Hollywood’s Stealth Vintage Fashion Queen

When Jennifer Aniston picked up her best actress trophy at the SAG Awards last night, fans couldn’t help but notice her striking style choice. In a white satin bias cut gown from Christian Dior, Aniston brought a regal air to the proceedings—but perhaps the most exciting element of her look was its age. First shown on the runway during John Galliano’s Spring/Summer 1999 collectsion, Aniston’s gown debuted while she was still a regular on Friends. Purchased at Beverly Hills luxury outpost, LILY et Cie, the look was in owner, Rita Watnick's archives for 20 years before Aniston discovered it. “This is a vintage dress that I had, sort of a present that I gave myself,” she told Entertainment Tonight. “This is an investment. These are designers that are working for particular houses—I only have a couple.”

Aniston may be modest about her collectsion, but over the years, she’s displayed a stellar lineup of retro pieces. Unlike vintage aficionados Winona Ryder and Chloë Sevigny, who are well-known for their love of thrifting, Aniston has been a stealth appreciator. Her affinity for minimal, timeless styles means that even her moments of old school appreciation blend seamlessly into an overarching aesthetic. Still, even with her favored designers and silhouettes—the actress has never met a plunging neckline she didn’t like—each look still has its own flavor. Last night’s streamlined Dior number may share a label with the blush pink sequin embellished dress she pulled out for a trip to the Emmys with then-husband, Brad Pitt, way back in 2002, but they couldn’t be more different. Likewise, the lace accented gold Galliano number she wore to SAG’s 2015 ceremony is worlds away from the illustrated black ruffled slip she chose for last year’s SAG Aftra Foundation gala.

As one of the most consistent style stars in Hollywood, Aniston knows precisely what she likes; beach waves courtesy of Chris McMillan, unfussy ensembles, and a bit of beautiful vintage. Together with longtime stylists Clare and Nina Hallworth, she’s been able to infuse her wardrobe with fashion that reflects her love of great design. It’s also a timely reminder of the desire for a more sustainable awards season, where celebrities re-wear great pieces, shop their closets, and appreciate that true style isn’t dictated by the pursuit of newness. In her quiet way, Aniston is helping to shape a new kind of red carpet, one vintage look at a time.