What is Vintage Clothing?
First off, what is considered to be vintage? In the fashion industry, the term ‘vintage’ applies to clothing that is older than 20 years old. This means that vintage clothing items will date before the early 2000s, thus we have seen a huge increase in trending Y2K pieces this Summer. On the other hand, retro clothing is made in the style of a previous era and mimics an older style without pretending to be original. You will often see these pieces labelled as "vintage inspired".
Features of Vintage Clothing
How Can You Tell If Clothes Are Actually Vintage?
If you're looking to add some vintage flair to your wardrobe, pay attention to the details, materials, construction, and durability of the clothing. Actually examine the details of the size labels. Often, vintage clothing will have unique size labels that differ from modern sizing standards. Pay attention to any unusual sizing or numbering on the label, as this can be a clue that the piece is indeed vintage. If you come across a piece with a tag that reads Made in the USA or Made in Italy, chances are you've found a true vintage gem. Check out our recent TikTok video where we break down 80s and 90s Nike tags.
Why Buy Vintage Over Fast Fashion?
So why should you buy vintage over fast fashion? Not only does it save the planet by reducing waste, but it also allows you to shop more sustainably. It has been officially reported that thee is enough clothing on the planet to dress the next 6 generations of the human race. Insane right?! Each vintage item has a story and history behind it, making it a unique addition to your wardrobe. Plus, vintage clothing often uses high-quality materials and fabrics that stand the test of time.
The Difference Between Vintage, Retro, Antique, Classic and Old
Antique
An antique is a collectible that has a high value because of its age and quality. The key factors that determine whether an item is considered an antique are its age, rarity, condition, and historical significance.
Retro
Retro refers to something that is imitative of a style or fashion from the recent past. It's all about taking inspiration from the past and giving it a modern twist. Retro is not just about copying what has come before, but about reimagining it and making it relevant for today.
Classic
A classic fashion piece is one that stands the test of time. It is a style that remains relevant and stylish season after season, year after year. These are the pieces that you can always count on to look good and never go out of style. A good example of this would be the iconic Burberry trench coat.
Old
Old clothing can range from a simply old white t-shirt or any other mass-market garment from past collections. Embrace the old and make it new again with your own unique style. Besides, fashion is all about self-expression!
Popular Vintage Brands
In the world of vintage streetwear, there are a few powerhouses that stand out among the rest. Brands like Nike, Adidas, Burberry, Carhartt, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Yves Saint Laurent are all considered iconic in the vintage fashion world. Nike and Adidas are two of the most recognisable brands in the world. Their vintage pieces from the 80s and 90s eras are highly coveted by collectors, with classic designs and spell-out logos that never go out of style. Burberry is another brand that has stood the test of time, with its signature nova check pattern and timeless trench coats. Carhartt, originally known for its workwear, has also become a popular choice for those looking to add a rugged edge to their wardrobe.
Who Buys Vintage Clothing?
So, who buys pre-loved fashion and accessories? The answer is simple - anyone and everyone. Whether you're a student on a budget, a Gen Z-er looking to make a statement, or just someone who appreciates the value of a good deal, buying second-hand is a trend that is here to stay. And with the rise of estate sales, thrift stores, and charity shops, there are more opportunities than ever to find unique, affordable, and sustainable items that speak to your individual style.
Where To Buy Vintage Clothing?
In today's world, the concept of buying second-hand items has become more popular than ever. There is a growing trend of people opting for pre-loved items. Vintage clothing and accessories are also easily accessible on selling platforms including Vinted and eBay, however 97th Vintage curates collections with expert knowledge and details of each product with an authentic guarantee available on their website.
