Basics of Vintage Shopping

Buying Vintage as a Fashion Statement

Vintage clothing is an investment that should be considered by anyone who appreciates fashion statements and time-defying trends.

Many shoppers new to vintage cannot tell the difference between antique and retro, and they raise their eyebrows at the price tag and wonder why something used should cost more than the latest trend. Understanding what vintage clothing is, appreciating how timelessly its appeal will last and learning how to properly seek out genuine vintage pieces are essential to shopping for vintage.

Definition of Vintage Clothing
The term "vintage" refers to any clothing – high-end, designer label or otherwise – made between the 1920s and the 1980s. Vintage clothing is not to be confused with retro clothing or antiques, as the former usually denotes items from the '60s to the '70s, while the latter alludes to collectibles that shouldn't be worn but rather kept for one's pleasure.

Wearing Vintage Today
Vintage items add an instant glam factor to any outfit. Be it a tunic from the '70s or a cloche from the '20s, vintage pieces catch the eye by epitomizing style. Many feel deterred by the high price tag on what might be considered second-hand clothing, but understanding that vintage is an investment like art may help budget-conscious shoppers to make the choice. While shopping for vintage is often just as costly as shopping for contemporary fashion, the value of the items lies in quality that's passed the tests of time and trends.

Amateur Vintage Shopping
There are hundreds of details to watch out for, little things like initials on the zipper, the length of the sleeve or even the care labeling. Novice shoppers may benefit by learning about the types of cut, materials, labelling and stitching used between the '20s and the '80s, as this can help narrow down the time period in which the clothing was made.

Putting Together an Outfit with a Vintage Accent
Vintage pieces are fashion statements on their own that shouldn't overwhelm the ensemble. It is best to pick out one or two items and mix them with more contemporary clothing. Vintage accessories are best left to stand out by themselves; likewise, vintage shoes are best paired with subtle outfits that allow the shoes to attract all the attention.