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Why Are Vintage Clothes So Expensive (And How To Save Money)

  • November 04, 2024
  • |
  • Jordan Weller

If you're like me, you can't resist the allure of a perfectly worn-in pair of vintage Levi's or a fresh addition to my vintage sweatshirt collection. But let's be real, sometimes the price tags on these treasures can be a little...well, more than we expected. So why can vintage clothes come at a hefty price tag, and more importantly, how can we save some coin while still looking cool? Let's dive in!

What Is Vintage Clothing?

Step into any vintage clothing store and you'll immediately be transported back in time. The racks are filled with pieces that tell a story, each item holding a piece of history within its seams. But as you browse through the carefully curated selection, you might find yourself wondering - why are vintage clothes so expensive?

To understand the high price tag attached to vintage clothing, it's important to first define what exactly vintage clothing is. Vintage clothing refers to garments that are at least 20 years old. These pieces are often rare, unique, and have stood the test of time in terms of quality and craftsmanship. Our Complete Guide to Vintage Clothing can help you answer any questions you might have!

More Popularity Has Lead To More Scarcity

For starters, the demand for vintage clothing has skyrocketed in recent years. Every man and their dog (literally) is on the hunt for that perfect vintage find, which drives up prices. The scarcity of certain pieces can also drive up the cost. As time passes, certain styles or brands become harder to find, making them more valuable to collectors and vintage fashion lovers. Additionally, vintage clothing is often handcrafted or made with high-quality materials, which can drive up the price. After all, you can't exactly stroll into your local shopping centre and pick up a one-of-a-kind 1980s vintage Nike sweatshirt.

Less Accessible Than Fast Fashion

Vintage clothes are just not as accessible as fast fashion. You can't just walk into any old store and find a rack full of vintage gems waiting for you. No, my friends, you have to hunt for them like a fashion-forward Indiana Jones. Whether it's scouring thrift stores & charity shops, flea markets & car boot sales, or online vintage shops (uhum, you only need 97th Vintage for this FYI), finding that perfect vintage piece takes time and effort. And as they say, time is money.

Retailers Investment

It is no secret that brands including Urban Outfitters and ASOS have jumped on the vintage bandwagon with Urban Renewal and ASOS Marketplace. While these e-commerce giants offer a wide selection of vintage and up-cycled pieces, they also tend to jack up the prices.

One tip to saving money on vintage clothing is to shop around. Don't just settle for the first online retailer you come across. And if you have your heart set on a specific vintage piece that seems out of reach, don't fret! Reach out to our Customer Service team and we'll do our best to track down that elusive item for you if we don’t have it available for you already!

Variable Factors

There are various key factors that contribute to the high prices of vintage clothing. One of which is the condition of the piece. Vintage clothes that are in pristine condition, with no signs of wear and tear, will naturally fetch a higher price. After all, you're not just buying a piece of clothing, you're investing in a piece of history. So, if you come across a vintage sweatshirt from the 1990s that looks like it just stepped out of a time machine, you can expect to pay a little more than the same item if it wasn’t in as good condition. At 97th Vintage, we pride ourselves on ensuring we source the best vintage clothing in the best condition.

Another factor that influences the price of vintage clothing is rarity. Just like with anything else, the rarer the item, the higher the price tag. True vintage pieces from the 50s and 60s, for example, are harder to come by and therefore command a higher price. On the other hand, a vintage sportswear branded sweatshirt that is flooded across the vintage market may not cost you an arm and a leg as it is more accessible.

Similarly, age is also a significant factor when it comes to the price of vintage clothing. The older the piece, the more valuable it is considered to be.

Platform Fees

Have you ever found yourself scrolling through online platforms like Etsy and Depop, only to be taken aback by the price tags on vintage clothing items? You're not alone. One of the main reasons why vintage clothes can come with a hefty price tag on these selling platforms is the fees that sellers incur. With fees ranging from 10% to 40% of the sale price, sellers often have to increase their prices to make a profit.

At 97th Vintage, we understand the importance of offering fair prices to our customers. That's why we keep a daily eye on the vintage market to ensure that we are offering the best prices possible.

How To Save Money When Buying Vintage Clothing

Here at 97th Vintage, we understand the struggle of wanting to add unique vintage pieces to your wardrobe without breaking the bank. That's why we make it a priority to keep a close eye on the vintage market, ensuring that our prices are fair and competitive. By staying informed and up-to-date on market trends, we can offer you the best price possible without compromising on quality.

One of the best ways to save money is by buying directly from sellers like 97th Vintage. By cutting out the middleman and purchasing directly from the source, you can avoid the markup that often comes with buying from third-party sellers. Not only will you be getting a better deal, but you'll also be supporting small businesses and independent sellers like us, in the process.

In conclusion, the high prices of vintage clothing may seem daunting, but with a little creativity and savvy shopping skills, you can indulge in your love for all things retro without draining your bank account. Remember, it's not about the price tag - it's about the story behind each piece and the joy it brings you when you wear it.