"Vintage clothing shopping is exciting and enjoyable because you can find items of clothing that nobody else has and you can find good quality items made the way they don't make things these days, from fabrics that might not even be around now. Not only are you sourcing unique items but you're also being eco-friendly into the bargain and preworn clothing is considered desirable by those frequenting the red carpet to the local fashionista" - WikiHow
In the last week, I was frantically scouting for Vintage Dresses! I needed a set of dresses that could capture the 1940s look for an upcoming swing dance performance .. What's swing you may ask.. Just a brief introduction...
"Swing dance" is a group of dances that developed with the swing style of jazz music in the 1920s-1950s. The best known of these dances is the Lindy Hop, a popular partner dance that originated in Harlem and is still danced today..
Well, I'm not in any way trying to give you a history lesson on swing.. but to share on my experience on how to shop Vintage! =))
In the last week, I was frantically scouting for Vintage Dresses! I needed a set of dresses that could capture the 1940s look for an upcoming swing dance performance .. What's swing you may ask.. Just a brief introduction...
"Swing dance" is a group of dances that developed with the swing style of jazz music in the 1920s-1950s. The best known of these dances is the Lindy Hop, a popular partner dance that originated in Harlem and is still danced today..
1. Know your fashion decade
Before you go on your Vintage hunt, do have an idea of what era/ decade your vintage look comes from. Each decade has substainally different styles and statement items, from the 1940s poofy skirts, to tapered form fitting, polka dots and stripes, all the way to groovy retro patterns that from the 1970's era.
2. Research
"Google is your best friend"... Enough Said =P
Search on major movie stars of that decade you're looking to recreate to give you an excellent overview of what you're planning to acheive.
Of course movies like Gone with the wind or Grease would certainly help you with the style of the decade.. =))
3. Understand your clothing for size
"Invest in a good measuring tape!" Great advice from a blogshop owner. Know your size and measurements to weed out the clothes you know it's too BIG or small for you.. Most blogshops do have a sizing chart as well as description of the sizes and measurements. However, if ever in doubt.. ASK! and they would gladly give you the measurements of the dress you've been eyeing at!
4. Be prepared to make alterations
Don't be afraid to alter a vintage garment, either for fit or for a totally changed look, or maybe even both. Adding extra fabric or lace will help enchance a certain look you're trying to acheive.. else.. use a belt! =)
Another blogshop owner had adviced using a belt to taper in if the waistline looks too big.. Also makes the outfit look nicer.. and if accessorised well would coincide with the desired decade! =)
5. Mix the old with the new
Go crazy, be creative! Mix and match that vintage top with a pair of jeans or shorts... Or pair that vintage bag/ shoes with your outfits!
Again.. Google is your best friend!
Extra tips!
ACCESORISE!! Don't neglect the accessories and the hairstyles to go with your vintage clothing! Makes your look more authentic to the era =)
Store vintage clothing with care. Padded hangers are an absolute must, and ensure that insects cannot damage the items during storage by using adequate protection.
Know where to shop vintage
3. Kalerplatte
5. AraRed
7. Chic pop Market! [Where Markets meets Vintage!]
Content creditted to: WikiHow
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