Going Vintage

Lately, I have been visiting a number of second-hand and vintage stores, as well as looking online for bargains. Vintage shopping is like mining for gold; sometimes, you have to dig through a lot of less-than-desirable clothing items. I have been advised to look carefully at the fabric for discoloration and holes, and to examine the stress points in seams and the underarm area. Zippers can be easily replaced, but shattered fabric is nearly irreparable.

It also helps to learn the lingo of vintage:

Mint This means the item is perfect like when it was originally made and shows no sign of wear. This is extremely rare for vintage clothing.

Near mint An item shows only the slightest signs of wear.

Excellent An item shows typical signs of wear due to occasional use

Very good An item is considered wearable but has some surface flaws such as staining or soiling.

Good An item is wearable but cannot be returned to excellent condition even if repairs are made.