HOW TO // Shop for vintage clothing
It's not a simple answer really but I will tell you this, it's a fun one.
Quick and dirty answer: EVERYWHERE!
I know what you're thinking, really? Everywhere? But yes when I tell you I have found vintage clothing not only at thrift stores, but antique stores, estate sales, garage sales, through talking to other people, through random people bringing it to me and finally on the sidewalk (yes, really).
Vintage can be found in many places, if you know what to look for, keep an open mind and get creative sometimes!
My 3 quick tips for shopping for vintage clothing:
1. Know what you're looking at!
Get to know what vintage feels like and looks like. Shop at vintage stores before going thrifting so you can understand what vintage looks like, feels like, the details of garments and construction of them!
2. Check the condition.
Unless you have a good tailor or seamstress in your corner, it's always better to leave the torn, tattered, worn and stained pieces behind. Sometimes it's worth taking a risk but there's no guarantee for fixing an item. Always check the condition!
3. Quality over quantity, always.
Along the same lines as #2, this one really means to look at the fabric. I love vintage because typically the fabric is thicker, better fiber content and just overall you get a better quality item for your buck. Unlike today's throw away fast fashion culture, the men and women of the past took care of their clothing and needed it to last! Always look for quality pieces that you want to add to your wardrobe.
Happy Curating!
-Analysse