The ‘vintage’ tag does not necessarily mean that old these days. Currently anything from the 80s is being classed as vintage by some as an 80s style trend returns to fashion.

A description that says for example ‘40s style’ or ’70s retro’ usually means it was made much later. Today 20s flapper dresses are probably just in 20s style. There are many 40s style garments made in the 80s as this was a popular trend at the time. Also watch out for fancy-dress and theatre costumes which can be described under this banner but again are really just in the style of an era. But no matter the age of your garment if you still love it anyway then its right for you.

Natural fabrics like wool, cotton, linen, silk have been used for hundreds of years and nylon and rayon can be found from wartime onwards. Newer synthetics: polyester, lycra, viscose, etc are relatively new.

Until relatively recently clothing would have been made individually by dressmaking at home, a professional dressmaker, tailor or milliner. This can be seen in details like the cut, seams and quality of finishing. Old seams will have been cut with pinking shears rather than overlocking and hems will have been hand stitched. Metal zips were replaced by nylon around the end of the 60s and older buttons will be made from mother of pearl, bone, bakelite and celluloid.

Vintage condition will never be perfect as its been around for a few years. If it is listed as being in perfect condition then be wary. Tears, holes, stains, rust marks, fading, buttons and belts missing etc should always be carefully pointed out so you know exactly what to expect. These are often minimal and with some tender loving care can be fixed enough to make it wearable. This adds to the character of a vintage item and is part of its life story. The price should reflect the condition.

Cleaning can be tricky and should only be done in some cases if absolutely necessary as colours may run, the garment may shrink or disintegrate in really old pieces. If there are no instructions to follow on the garment then hand washing is good or specialist dry-cleaning.

Treasure Shop

Vintage Shop