Discovering Vintage

Fashion addicts have always dreamed about a way in which they can shop to their hearts content without having to worry about designer prices and you’d be correct in assuming that it is just a dream, unless you’re among the privileged few who can afford all the clothes they want.

But this dream is quickly turning into a reality for those who have discovered that vintage fashion is the perfect option for the fashion savvy.

Designers have rehashed past styles from decades past in the hope of ushering in new trends for years now, and billions have been made from this technique.

Vintage retailers however, have now caught up to this trend and turned the format into the ideal shopping environment for the public.

But it isn’t just about saving cash; vintage fashion offers shoppers all the styles from past and present creating an even better experience than simply hitting the major labels for the latest pieces.

So if you’re new to the trend, or if you’re a die-hard fashionista looking for a little more advice, here are some expert tips for vintage shopping:

In with the old, out with the new-

Designers hire models and A-list celebrities to show you what the latest fashion is.

With vintage shopping, what influences you is a more personal matter. And to most people this sounds like a fresh fashion start, but to those who might be used to using the latest fashion as a means to develop their own wardrobe, vintage shopping can see like a risky leap.

But vintage shopping just requires a bit more research. Creating your own look around what you find at a vintage shop is a brilliant fashion opportunity, creating your own image (even if it just means small things, like vintage accessories) can give you that edge over the designer brands and labels.

Fashion hunting- Most people think that vintage retailers will be impossible to find.

But this is where most people are wrong. There is nothing wrong with starting out at your local charity shop, instead of trying to find a dedicated boutique. And charity shops are everywhere, plus, they’re perfect for vintage bargains.

Charity and second hand shops might not be holy grails of fashion, but more often than not hide the best pieces. Another bonus is that they can be considered more authentic because the people who live through particular fashion era end up donating their now unused items to charity, items which very quickly come back into fashion.

Dedicated boutiques are more common in urban areas and cities. A quick internet search will find the closest retailer to you, but the best option is to explore your area. Chances are you’ll beat the crowds to the best items if you can find somewhere that isn’t on the net. Also, remember to look out for traveling vintage fairs, as these can often have the best pieces.

Check out online sites too. Websites such as ASOS Marketplace allow vintage sellers to host items. There are some fantastic items from a range of great designers, and the site is perfect for those looking for a particular item that might not be readily available elsewhere.

Getting the small details right

Most importantly, remember to try the clothes on! This might sound obvious, but there is a vast difference between vintage sizing and modern sizing. Vintage shops source clothes from so many different decades that trying things on really is that important.

Also remember to check for rips, stains and other blemishes. It’s great that you’re buying a vintage item, but it’s not worth buying a damaged piece, so be careful and check you’re potential purchases.

Vintage shopping can be great fun, and it will allow you to save some cash and get a couple of steps ahead of the designers if you play your fashion cards right.

This post was written by Tom Chandler on behalf of ASOS Marketplace. Tom writes about news and trends within fashion and culture markets.