The Do-s & The Don't-s

Tips of Vintage Shopping

After many years of vintage shopping, there are a few areas which you'd need to keep in mind when vintage shopping.

First you must understand that wearing vintage is not a fashion choice, it’s a living style! Some of the most common reasons vintage enthusiasts wear vintage are because;

- Environmentally conscious. Unlike recycled paper, clothing cannot be turned into other items of clothing. So by wearing vintage clothing, you are recycling.
- It is extremely rare to find another piece of clothing the same, hence, making a vintage wearer unique and outstanding.
- Price. Recycled clothing are generally quiet reasonably priced, because it is another’s unwanted items.
It has come to my attention of the ‘Vintage Craze’ in the fashion industry at the moment. What bothers me more are vintage stores bulk buying pieces offshore.

Anyhow, today, we are here to give you some pointers about vintage shopping. Hope this helps you make a better decision and find some amazing pieces.

The Do-s

- Shop Around. There is no one shop that has it all. Like mentioned before, vintage shopping is a life style. The hunt for the next great find is an experience of its own. Sometimes you may be lucky and go home with bags full, others, empty handed. Some of the most common places to find vintage pieces are, local brotherhood stores, Vinnies, Savers, garage sales, markets, local vintage stores and your grandma’s wardrobe!
Do not shop at boutiques!
There is no such word.

- Check for marks, rips, and stains. As any piece of second hand item, items are rarely in its original condition. Make sure you check for signs of damage, with special attention at the sleeves, zips, buttons and collar. Those are most common areas of damage.

- Here is a price guide for your reference when shopping. This is the most any one should pay for any one item.
Shirts (exc tees) / blouses … $30
Shorts / Short Skirts ...$30
Long Skirts … $40
Day Dresses/ Short Dresses … $45
Long Dresses … $60
Bags (Leather) … $30
Accessories inc Sunnies, belts, hats … $15
Shoes … $25

- Buy items that fit you. Some shops will allow customers to try on items, but if you’re shopping at the market, do try the items by wrapped it around your body. Avoid buying items that are too big. It is extremely difficult to find a good vintage dressmaker. A bad dressmake will cause the item to lose shape.

The Don’t-s

- Do Not Shop at Vintage Boutiques! There is no such word as a boutique in the vintage fashion. Vintage boutique are for the non-vintage wearers who like to follow the vintage trend. The boutique usually import the items in bulk from overseas and are almost always overpriced.

- Avoid buying damaged items no matter how much you love it. Learn to let go! Although I believe it is the person who wears the clothes and the wearer who can make any item look like a million dollars. However, a reverse affect appears if a piece of clothing is damaged. It can make the wearer look scruffy and not presentable.

- Avoid buying overpriced items. Follow the price guide above. Do not get ripped off just because it’s attached with a ‘vintage’ label.

Now Good Luck... and Let's Go Shopping!