Hi there! I hope your Summer is going well! One of the things that I have taken an interest in this year than previous years, has been to vintage shop. When I mean vintage shop, I don’t necessarily mean designer brand vintage. I mean more like styles that are vintage by observation.
It all started when I had walked into Boogie Nights Vintage located in downtown Garland, which is right next to one of my favorite coffee shops, Rosalind Coffee. I love that they have a mix of Vintage wear, and very gently used (almost new) clothing. I know vintage shopping is not for everyone, but if you are curious or maybe even open minded to try, I recommend it because you can find unique pieces, or expensive brands that are very affordable. The few times that I have gone vintage shopping, I realized there are a couple of things I take into consideration and cross my mind while shopping. Here are a few tips to think about:
Look for the Classics
I noticed when i vintage shop, yes I have brought home a few unique items because I think they’d make a great statement piece when I attend a fashion event. However I really try to find classic and practical pieces that I can wear with some of my modern wear. Keep in mind that some of these classic pieces have cuts and edges in a way that it was worn during it’s time. That can make this piece, which can be quite simple, look “next level” if you will. You can always alter some pieces if you see there is an opportunity.
Here’s somewhat of an example below, where the color is classic but the style is vintage. I found this black dress that I just loved! What is simple about it, is that it’s the color black. Immediately I though this would make for a great “little black dress” moment. However, the cut and style is one from “x” time ( I am not too familiar within knowing what year this dress was out). I enjoy mixing modern with vintage. I don’t do it often, but when I am in the mood.. I will mix the two.
Don’t stick with the Trends
I have mentioned this before, but I’ll mention it again. I don’t really stick with trends. Yes when there is something “trendy” and I happen to enjoy it, I will make the purchase. However, 90% of the time, I’m wearing what I feel like wearing; trending or not. That is the case when I have shopped for vintage clothing. I try to find styles that tend to reoccur again. That is key.
Big brands don’t always Matter
I know I mentioned that it’s awesome when you find a big brand at a super affordable price, but if it’s not a recurring style or something that fits your everyday wardrobe, don’t buy it. Just because it’s name brand, doesn’t mean it’ll work out. Don’t get too hung up on the name brands.
Remember your Personal Style and Wardrobe
Earlier in this blog post, I mentioned how I like mixing vintage styles with my modern pieces? That’s because this is what works for me. Keep your style in mind when shopping. I always encourage to step outside your comfort zone a bit too. If there is something you like, just try it on! You never know how you will feel or look until it’s on you. If it looks good, and it makes sense with your personality and style…get it! I can’t tell you how many times i’ve gotten complimented more when I have worn something that I have found at a vintage store.
Be open-minded about Flaws
Remember that vintage pieces have been worn before. Some pieces might have a thread sticking out or may be too long or short. Don’t say no to the piece just because it has a button missing, for example. If it’s a quick fix, still consider it. I am going to be taking a few pieces that I have found to a tailor because I can tell there’s room to fix it. Also, not all vintage stores look fabulous. Don’t be put off with the store, and instead focus on the fabulous items that you may find at great price!
You Contribute to a New “wave of sustainable fashion”
I remember hearing someone in my hometown argue against “Fast Fashion”. That’s when I first heard the word Fast Fashion ever. What do these words mean? Fast Fashion is “inexpensive clothing produced rapidly by mass-market retailers in response to the latest trends” (wikipedia). That is your Forever 21, H&M and a lot of other stores that create fashion asap while it is on-trend. Going in the opposite directions, and buying second hand is reusing clothing. The opposite terms of Fast Fashion are Upcycle which means, “Upcycling stops adding stuff to a world that is already overwhelmed with material things. It also reuses materials that may otherwise end up in the landfill in creative and innovative ways”. I’m not going to advocate for everyone to do this and i’m not going to never to shop at an H&M again, however if I can rewear some items that I do enjoy and wear them differently instead of make new purchases at one these fast retailer stores… then why not?
Here is an article that explains in depth on how, by shopping reused, you are contributing to something good.
Lastly, in case you are interested in brand name vintage finds…check out these stores online.
https://us.vestiairecollective.com/
If you are looking for vintage inspired wear (you have to dig through these sites), check out
If you are wondering where I have shopped around Dallas, I haven’t gotten very far (i’m working at it) but here is where I have found some vintage pieces:
Let me know your thoughts on this! Leave your comment below on where you have shopped whether you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area or even online!
