Buying Vintage Treasures
Gingerbread syrup swirled into my coffee has officially become my festive-season tradition, and I’ve kicked off the advent calendar—because let’s be honest, the chocolaty countdown to Christmas never gets old! These days, the pup and I are becoming regulars at what has quickly become my favourite café, a cozy spot that’s perfect for rainy mornings like this.
This past week, I finally tackled a few pairs of vintage shoes from my "mend it" bag and had them re-heeled—now they’re ready to join the shop. On top of that, I had the pleasure of attending a vintage clothing fair, an annual pre-Christmas event held in a local historic manor house that’s steeped in over 1,000 years of history. The mix of styles and eras there is always magical. Though I missed the chance to vendor this year, I’m already planning ahead for next. Plus, I scored an amazing pair of ’90s patent platform shoes, so I left feeling pretty pleased. All this vintage hunting got me thinking about the things I’ve learned along the way. While my heart often rules my head (as it should when it comes to treasures like these), I wanted to share some practical tips for buying vintage.
Vintage and The Charm of Imperfection:
When buying vintage, perfection isn’t always the goal. Signs of age, minor flaws, and unique quirks can tell a story and make your piece truly one of a kind. However, it’s always good to weigh your emotional attachment against the practical challenges of repairs or restorations. Whether you’re shopping at a vintage clothing fair, a boutique, or online, read on to help you make informed decisions. After all, every vintage find has its own story—and now, you're better equipped to write the next chapter.
Lingering Odors: Saying Goodbye to Musty Smells:
You have found a piece that you love, but maybe it has been stored somewhere a little damp, or not been aired for a few decades. It smells bad. Sometimes vintage treasures come with a less-than-pleasant aroma. Try a vinegar steam bath. Hang the garment over a shallow bath of hot water mixed with 2 cups of white vinegar. The garment being as close to the water as possible. Shut the door to the room and leave it overnight. This method can work wonders for lifting unpleasant odours without damaging delicate fabrics.
Fabric Condition: Faded or Damaged Pieces:
Vintage fabrics often carry the marks of their history. Sunlight exposure, improper storage, or over-washing can cause permanent fading or damage. While small flaws may add to the charm and can be worn regardless as they are not too noticeable. Larger issues might require creative solutions. Consider whether the damage is repairable or adds character. If not, you may need to re-dye the piece in a much darker shade to even out discoloration. However, be aware that this may not be an option for delicate or antique fabrics.
Check the Closures, Buttons, Clasps:
Any missing vintage closures can be tricky to replace, especially if they are era-specific or highly decorative. You will likely need to replace all the buttons or clasps and finding a set of era appropriate vintage buttons or zippers can sometimes cost more than the item itself! If you love the piece enough, sourcing vintage closures from the same era can be a rewarding project but be sure to factor in the additional time and cost before committing.
Stains and Spots: What to Watch For:
Stains around the arms and neckline are common in vintage clothing. While some can be treated, be aware that perspiration stains are often permanent, especially on delicate fabrics like silk or rayon (these should be professionally dry cleaned as you could cause more damage trying to address the issues at home). For non-delicate fabrics, try a paste of salt, baking soda, and a little water. Rub it gently into the stain and let it sit for 20 minutes before gently rinsing.
Beads and Embellishments, Missing or Damaged Details:
Beading, sequins, and other embellishments are what make many vintage pieces so special, but they can also pose a big challenge if they’re damaged or missing. Small issues may not detract from wearability, but larger patches can be difficult (and time-consuming) to repair. When shopping, evaluate whether the missing embellishments can be easily replaced or discreetly hidden. If it feels like a monumental task, it may be worth passing on the piece, no matter how beautiful.
As a lover of all things vintage, I know the thrill of finding a unique piece that feels like it was made just for you. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of vintage, I hope that sharing a little of my knowledge can help can make the difference between your dream find and a disappointing regret.
Until next time
Collette x