Go vintage, gear with a nostalgic touch
VINTAGE shopping is a perfect way to find unique clothing items to add to you wardrobe. To add your signature to an outfit.
If you’re a lover of the 1950s Hollywood glam style evening gowns and fur shawls or a hippie at heart with a love for boho dresses, vintage stores are like treasure chests filled with jewels from different decades.
As fun and easy as it might sound, shopping for those vintage jewels isn’t without its cons. There are many factors to consider while you’re out vintage shopping.
First of all, you’ll need to know where to look. Don’t be fooled into thinking that just because the garments are second hand that they will be cheaper.
Stores that specialise in vintage wear tend to be more expensive since they’ve already taken the time to hunt for the best garments and had them restored. So if you’re serious about your vintage wear and not on a tight budget, then those are the stores for you.
If, on the other hand, you are on a tight budget and out bargain hunting (and who isn’t), then flea markets are the best places to check out. Be sure to go armed with cash and your best bargaining skills. What to look out for:
Check the condition of the fabric. If the fabric is worn, thin and beading is falling off or the embroidery is unravelling, then give it a miss. If there’s a button missing from a blazer or coat you might want to reconsider buying it. Especially if it’s a button you know is specific to the era and a match will be difficult to find.
That garment that’s a size too small might be perfect but don’t depend on the fact that you’ll drop a dress size any time soon.
Obviously buying an item too big isn’t a problem, simply have it altered.
If the garment has a stain on it you have to bear in mind that it’s been there since 19 dot! Which means it’s NOT going to come out. I’m sure the previous owners have tried. Remaining on the subject of stains, underarm stains are nasty so don’t even go there.
Looking for a glamorous evening bag? Check that the clutch is still working and any beading or jewels are in good condition.
If it’s a hippie leather sling you’re looking for, make sure that the leather isn’t cracking.