There’s a definite list of pros and cons when it comes to vintage shopping: On the one hand, there’s the sorting through racks on racks of musty clothing (and possibly leaving empty-handed); on the other, you could score one-of-a-kind Halston on a whim. It takes dedication, and it goes without saying that true vintage shopping is not for everyone. But for most collectors, finding that one unicorn piece every once in a while makes the hunt all worthwhile.
Herein we lay down our road map for navigating the sometimes-treacherous piles of previously loved (sometimes too much, if you know what we mean) clothing. Whether it’s an expertly curated consignment boutique or your local Salvation Army, there’s a method to the archival Chanel madness. Happy hunting!
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1. Be Strategic
If you don’t have time to rip off layers of clothing and put in work in the dressing room, head straight for accessories. Think: shoes, jewelry, and bags – all of which don’t require stripping down in a debatebly hygienic changing room. If you’re really keen on clothing, go for coats and sweaters that can be layered onto whatever you’re wearing.
2. Know Your Labels
This is especially true if you’re on the hunt for designer pieces. Think about it this way: If you’re searching through a million hangers of black jackets, spotting that vintage Yves Saint Laurent label hidden amongst the racks is going to be much harder when you have no idea what it looked like in the 60s. Do some quick Google research before you head out, or go to some well-curated designer boutiques and get familiar. Otherwise you might pass over – or worse, get scammed – on some good finds.
3. Don’t Overlook Menswear
Belts, sweaters, button-down shirts, and even shoes are go-to unisex pieces. Size down if you need to, and keep any eye out for clothes that fit well with a more androgynous fit. You’ll be surprised at what you can find, and we’ve found that the selection is usually much larger in the men’s section.
4. Buy All the T-Shirts
This one is a no-brainer, especially at donation-fueled stores. Most are rife with dozens of tees that evoke all the memories of your youth (just like the ones sold for a cool hundred dollar in some of your favorite boutiques) that are already perfectly worn in. And, chances are a lot of people shopping at your parents’ suburban Goodwill aren’t familiar with Vetements, so maybe a DHL shirt is in your future.
