Are you a vintage fashion enthusiast who loves the thrill of hunting for vintage clothing pieces to add to your wardrobe? Whether you're rummaging through thrift stores or browsing online marketplaces, the quest for that perfect vintage find can be both exciting and daunting. One of the biggest challenges that vintage shoppers face is knowing if you have a true vintage garment. We've got you covered with some key tips and tricks to help you confidently identify vintage clothing.

What Makes A Piece Of Clothing Vintage?

Typically, clothing is considered vintage if it's at least 20 years old, but some collectors and experts may have stricter criteria. So, if you're holding a piece of clothing that was made in the 90s or earlier, there's a good chance it's vintage. By most collectors, an item is considered “true vintage” if it's 50 years or older.

But it's not just about age when it comes to identifying vintage clothing. Vintage clothing also has a certain quality and aesthetic that sets it apart from modern pieces. It often features unique details, high-quality materials, and craftsmanship that is hard to find in today's fast fashion industry. Whether it's a 1960s French workwear jacket or a funky 80s Nike sweatshirt, vintage clothing has a story to tell and a personality all its own.

How To Identify Vintage Clothing: Our Tips

Check the copyright year

When you come across a vintage piece, the first thing you want to do is to identify the garments date. Whilst a copyright year is not always listed on all garments, this small detail can give you a good indication of when the garment was produced. For example, if you find a tag that says 1993, you can confidently say that the piece is from the 90s era.

In addition to the copyright year, pay close attention to the tag itself. Many clothing manufacturers include important information on their tags, such as the brand name, size, and washing instructions. These details do not only help you authenticate the garment but also give you insights into its history.

For example, if you come across a label that proudly states Made in the USA, there's a good chance the garment is from the 70s or earlier. This is because many manufacturers have since moved their production overseas in search of cheaper labor and resources. By being mindful of these small details, you can become a savvy vintage shopper and build a unique wardrobe that tells a story.

Look out for half sizes

Have you ever come across odd number sizes like 3, 5, 7, or 9 and wonder what they mean?

Back in the day, before the 1980s, odd number sizes were specifically created for petite women. These women had smaller and shorter body measurements compared to regular women, and they needed garments that fit their proportions better.

Check the condition

When checking out vintage clothing, it's important to consider its overall condition. While signs of wear and tear may be present, they can actually add to the charm and character of the garment.

A bit like the vintage Carhartt jackets you often see on the market these days - the more worn, the better! These imperfections are a testament to the piece's history, showing that it has been loved and worn by previous owners.

However, not all signs of wear are desirable. Stains, holes, and other damage can make a vintage garment unwearable or difficult to repair.

At 97th Vintage, we inspect each piece that comes through HQ to ensure all of our stock we have available is the best of the best.

Research the brand

Of course, certain designers and brands are known for their iconic styles and silhouettes, making it easier to identify their vintage pieces.

By researching the brand or designer of a vintage garment, you can gain a deeper understanding of the piece's history and significance. You may uncover interesting facts about the designer's inspiration, the cultural context of the time period, and the impact of the garment on fashion trends.

This knowledge not only adds to the story behind the piece but also enhances your appreciation for its craftsmanship and design. Certain brands have distinctive logos, labels, and signatures that can help you determine the authenticity of a vintage piece.

Learn about historic style trends

One of the key aspects of identifying vintage clothing is paying attention to the design and silhouette of the garment.

Fashion trends are constantly evolving, but by identifying the era in which a garment was made, you can get a better sense of its vintage appeal.

For example, if you come across a Nike shell suit jacket, it's likely from the late 1980s or early 1990s, when this style was most popular. On the other hand, if you find a pair of baggy, loose fitted denim skater jeans with embroidered detailing, it's probably from the early 2000s.

Check where the clothes were made

In the past, it was common to see Made in England, Made in France, Made in USA or Made in Mexico labels on clothing tags.

However, as manufacturing costs have risen in these countries, many brands have shifted their production to places like China, Thailand, or Indonesia where labor is cheaper.

If the garment was made in a country that no longer exists or has a different name today, then this is an indicator of a vintage garment. Examples include West Germany or Yugoslavia.

Check the fabric composition

In the past, vintage clothing was often made with high-quality materials like silk, wool, and cotton.

When examining a vintage piece, pay attention to the fabric composition to get a sense of its age and quality. Look at the construction and materials, vintage clothing was often constructed with great attention to detail.

Look for features like a single stitch sleeve on a vintage graphic t-shirt. When checking the fabric composition of a vintage piece, keep an eye out for any blends or synthetic materials that may indicate a more modern reproduction.

While blends can be a great way to improve the durability and stretch of a garment, they can also detract from the overall quality and authenticity of a vintage piece.

Check the typography on the label

Understanding the style of typography from various time periods can help you determine when they may have been produced.

Typical 70s labels exude a certain retro charm that is hard to miss. With bold, blocky fonts and psychedelic designs, 70s labels scream vintage.

In the 80s, you'll notice a shift towards more personality in clothing labels. Brands in the 80s weren't afraid to get a little wacky with their typography, using vibrant colours and quirky fonts to stand out.

Fast forward to the 90s, and you'll see a shift towards a more minimalist and clean aesthetic in clothing labels. Designer labels from the 90s often feature sleek typography and a sophisticated vibe that sets them apart from their 70s and 80s counterparts. Keep an eye out for these subtle details when trying to date a vintage piece from the 90s.

In conclusion, the key to successfully dating vintage clothing lies in a combination of research, passion, and a willingness to seek help when needed.

Remember, the more you know, the more you'll appreciate the rich history and unique charm of vintage clothing. If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure about dating a specific vintage item, don't be afraid to ask for help or reach out to jordan@97thvintage.com