If you’re looking forward to jumping on the vintage fashion bandwagon, here’s your ultimate shopping guide! From the best stores and getting amazing dated finds to smart shopping tips, here’s everything you need to know.
Why Vintage?
There are many reasons vintage shopping is a smart and stylish decision, sustainability being one of the most important. Besides keeping things eco-friendly and avoiding waste, shopping vintage helps you save the big bucks, especially when you’re looking at bigger luxury fashion labels. While a lot of the styles are still en vogue, they’re sold at a fraction of their current resale prices.
Shopping Tips:
Before you get shopping, here are some things to keep in mind:
Sizing
Vintage clothes are sized differently than your current size charts, so don’t be surprised if, say, a vintage size 10 doesn’t match your current size 10. This is because sizing charts have been revised time and again by fashion brands. So, make sure to check with the seller for actual measurement sizes of the garment rather than just following what the garment label says.
What Is It Made Of
Always make sure you check the composition of your garments, in simpler terms, what your garment if made of. Picking garments in durable fabrics will ensure a purchase that will be worth the money. Fabrics like cotton, wool and denim will last you longer.
Beware Of Damage
Don’t be shy to ask the store owner about any pre-existing tears, rips or stains. Make sure to check for damage yourself too. While minor rips or a stitch coming off is common for older pieces, a tear should not be the cause of unravelling of the fabric’s weave.
Soles Of Shoes
When buying shoes, you must check the soles as a rule of thumb. The soles can easily tell how much the shoe has been worn. Try to avoid the shoes if they seem too worn off as they might not last you too long.
Start Smaller
If you’re new to the vintage fashion game, a safe step would be to start with accessories like jewellery, belts and bags. This way you’ll be making a smaller investment and they’re easier to make a judgement on.
Where to Shop?
Viange Vintage
Image Source: Instagram/viangevintage
This store specifically stocks vintage designer jewellery like necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets. Watch out for one-of-a-kind gold-toned Chanel jewellery the store has in stock.
VRTT Vintage
Image Source: Instagram/vrttvintage
VRTT Vintage will be your go-to store for accessories like bags, shoes and belts. The store has some unique luxury bags and shoes on offer for almost half their current prices so consider these a steal!
No Borders
Image Source: Instagram/nobordersshop
No Borders curates some really stylish clothes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s and brands like Halston Heritage, Christian Dior, Kenzo and many more. You can find an interesting range of blazers, shirts and trousers here!