10 Vintage-Buying Tips From The Queen Of Second-Hand Shopping
It’s no secret that the Bay Area is something of a vintage lover’s dream. What with the stellar second-hand offerings on Haight Street—and well beyond!—and a bevy of amazing local flea markets and vintage fashion fairs constantly popping up around town, we couldn't ask for more. Chances are you’ve already marked your calendar for this weekend’s Alameda Point Vintage Fashion Faire (Friday, October 21 and Saturday, October 22), which will include over 50 vintage dealers spread across three ballrooms. But do you have a plan when it comes to navigating the offerings? If not, Sandra Michaan, the Fashion Faire’s co-founder and chief curator, is here to help. After the jump, check out her 10 must-read vintage-buying tips—everything from how to handle stains and stenches to finding a retro silhouette that flatters your shape. Commit it all to memory and get ready to rummage with a new-found confidence.
1.) Check The Condition
“Always inspect vintage garments. You’re buying as-is merchandise. If you're buying at an auction, ask for a condition report. When shopping at vintage fairs, most dealers are pros and often take care to mend holes, replace sequins and buttons, dry clean, and steam and press clothing. Just remember that you get what you pay for. If something is ripped or threads are loose and the lining is falling out, factor in what the cost would be to have it repaired, before purchasing.”
2.) Check For Stains & Odors
“Hold the garment in natural light to check for any stains. If there are stains under the arms, pass. These stains and odors are set and cannot be removed. If you buy online, odor could be an issue. However, a trusty dry cleaner is your best friend. Oxiclean is the industry choice and can help remove difficult set-in stains.”
3.) Know What Eras Work Best For Your Body Type
Hourglass and plus sizes:
“The ‘50s and early ‘60s celebrated a shapely hourglass figure like those of Marilyn Monroe and Sophia Loren. Cinched waists, fitted cardigan sweaters, or pencil skirts and capri pants make an hourglass figure stand out. Many ‘80s styles can flatter the hourglass shape, too.”
Pear:
“A-line dresses from the ‘60s are flattering on pear shapes, but pay attention to the length and fabric. Longer skirts from the ‘70s have an elongating effect. A long skirt combined with a fitted top really work well for pear shapes. Maxi lengths are a good choice, too, and, now they’re back in style.”
Apple:
“An ample bust and shapely legs are juicy assets, so pick one to show off. Any decade that didn't emphasize the waist will flatter this body shape, including the ‘30s, ‘60s, and ‘70s."
Rectangle:
"Flapper styles form the ‘20s and ‘30s and straight ‘60s mod styles were made for this Twiggy-like body shape. Any waist or bust line emphasis is not the best silhouette for super-skinny or boyish bodies.”
Photographed by Julia Lola Wang
