The Ultimate Guide To Vintage Shopping
Some items really are beyond repair. They have lived a good life – so let them pass you by.
Thoroughly check anything you like – turn it inside out and check all the seams for rips and tears, and hold the fabric up to a bright light to see if the fabric is worn or patchy.
Don’t expect all stains to come out in the wash (they are probably older than you).Rebecca Cox
With stars like Kate Moss making vintage look oh-so-so cool, it's no wonder we all want to get in on the act. But where do you start when hunting out beautiful vintage treasures? GLAMOUR.com has the answers...
Read our guide and make your friends green with envy by becoming queen of vintage.
In a hurry? Click here to print out our quick shopping guide for instant vintage success
Rebecca CoxBy Rebecca Cox
Mix it up
Susan Muncey, creator of vintage website <a href=http://www.shopcurious.co.uk target=_new>shopcurious.co.uk</a> says: “I love the quirkiness of vintage pieces – they’re all individually special and can be mixed with modern styles to create your own unique look.”
Don’t wear vintage from head-to-toe – you will end up looking like your mad Aunt Hilda. Mix gorgeous vintage pieces with simple contemporary statements for a look that really works. For example, a vintage sequined blazer will add a stylish twist to a simple trousers and T-shirt ensemble.
Rebecca CoxThe devil’s in the detail
Many vintage items are hand sewn, and feature embellishments from beading to embroidery, so do keep on the lookout. Expect to pay extra for the love and attention that has gone into making them – it will be worth it, it makes them completely unique.
<a href=http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/426x639/g_j/Glamour.com_vintage2_426x639_1.jpg target=_new> Click here to print out our quick guide to vintage shopping – take it with you for instant success!</a>
Rebecca CoxLocation, location, location
If it is vintage bargains you seek – location is key, so do your homework. When it comes to charity shopping, small villages with high property prices are where you will find stacks of designer loot for a pittance, so stay local and visit wealthier neighbourhoods.
If you live in a city stick to vintage stores that have already snapped up any bargains – big names like Beyond Retro are a good place to start if you want lots of choice.
Rebecca CoxDesigner deals
Vintage expert Susan Muncey says: “Designer labels can be collectable, but I think it’s much more important that a piece has its own timeless style and is usable, or wearable.”
Many people fall into the trap of buying vintage pieces just for the designer label. Don’t! Only buy designer items if you are sure they are genuine, and you actually like them.
You will soon learn your favourites and stick to them. Bally’s sturdy leather boots are a GLAMOUR.com favourite.
Rebecca CoxThere are four main sources of vintage clobber, each have their ups and downs...
Markets and vintage fairs
The great thing about fairs and markets is the stall holders that are knowledgeable about their stock. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about pieces that catch your eye; the background to a brooch can make it even prettier!
Vintage fairs can pop up anywhere with very little notice, so keep your ears to the ground and check local newspapers so that you don’t miss out.
Rebecca CoxVintage shop victories
No matter how plush the store, it is still worth examining the garment thoroughly, trying it on (there should be changing rooms) and checking the returns policy so that you can ask your friends and family when you get home.
Vintage stores/websites are normally run by experts that travel far and wide to seek out the best pieces; so expect to pay extra for their expertise.
Rebecca CoxCharity shop scouring
This fun pastime can quickly become an obsession when you realise how many treasures are out there for the taking.
Search by fabric and collect anything silk, leather, linen or velvet to be sure of long-lasting vintage gems.
<a href=http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/426x639/g_j/Glamour.com_vintage2_426x639_1.jpg target=_new> Click here to print out our quick guide to vintage shopping – take it with you for instant success!</a>
Rebecca CoxCar boot/ jumble sale success
The most important tip when it comes to car boots and jumble sales is to be on time. In fact, be early. All the treasure will be snapped up within minutes, so have a beady eye and work quickly.
Don’t be afraid to haggle. In general, people sell things at car boot sales that they don’t think they can get big money for, so don’t be afraid to knock them down by a few pounds and get yourself a real steal.
Rebecca CoxIf it’s beyond repair
Some items really are beyond repair. They have lived a good life – so let them pass you by.
Thoroughly check anything you like – turn it inside out and check all the seams for rips and tears, and hold the fabric up to a bright light to see if the fabric is worn or patchy.
Don’t expect all stains to come out in the wash (they are probably older than you).
Rebecca CoxDo your research: If you want to become a real expert, check out one of the brilliant vintage books out there:
The Little Guide To Vintage Shopping (£12.99, Quirk Books) by Melody Fortier is compact enough to pop in your handbag and is crammed full of helpful tips and hints. Vintage Handbags(£25, Carlton)by Marnie Fogg traces 100 years of gorgeous handbags, and has a foreword by handbag queen Anya Hindmarch. Vintage Fashion (£20, Carlton) is great for spotting period features in vintage pieces, and has a really helpful shopping guide at the end to help you find vintage gems of your own.
<a href=http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/426x639/g_j/Glamour.com_vintage2_426x639_1.jpg target=_new> Click here to print out our quick guide to vintage shopping – take it with you for instant success!</a>
<a href=https://beautysale.store/fashion/celebrity-style/090924-celebrities-in-vintage.aspx target=_new> Click here to check out the celebrities who rock vintage style best</a>
