There’s something special about vintage clothing.
It has a unique appeal that modern clothing just can’t replicate. People are always looking for vintage clothes for a number of reasons. Sometimes, they want to feel like they’re wearing a piece of history. Many simply favour the styles of the 90s, 80s and time gone by. Others believe vintage clothing to be low-cost and sustainable, or good for the environment.
In today’s article, we’ll explore the reasons why vintage clothing is so popular and why it has such an enduring appeal in the fashion world.
Why is vintage clothing so popular?
There are a few reasons for this. Firstly, vintage clothing is unique. Retro items are not something you can find in every store – sometimes you really have to hunt for them. This makes certain one-of-a-kind items special and exciting to own.
Secondly, vintage clothing offers unique designs, styles and fits that aren’t seen in modern clothing stores. You won’t see many people walking around in a Marlboro motorcycle jacket from the 60s, for example. As the years go by, popular culture introduces new fashion trends, and others are left behind. Certain trends reintroduce themselves decades later (think flared trousers). Thus, the vintage cycle continues.
Third, vintage clothing is made with better materials. Brands like Ralph Lauren were known for quality materials and longevity in their garments – something that is often lost in the mass-produced fast fashion of today. For this reason, vintage clothes are considered more sustainable and more environmentally friendly due to their long-lasting nature. If you take care of your vintage items, they can last for many years to come.
Is vintage clothing getting more expensive?
Yes – and no. It all depends on what you’re looking for, and where you’re looking.
If you want a designer vintage piece, then of course it will be more expensive than a more modern piece from a high street retailer. Vintage clothing of all types has experienced a big surge in popularity as of late. As more people realise the benefits of vintage, prices for certain items have skyrocketed.
There are always bargains to be found if you know where to look for them. Charity shops, vintage markets, online stores and marketplaces like Depop and eBay are all great places to start.
When does an item become vintage?
An item should be at least 20 years old to be considered vintage.
However, the term ‘vintage’ is often used to describe clothing and accessories from any era prior to the current one.
Anything manufactured within the last 20 years is considered retro.
How do I look after vintage clothes?
Vintage clothing can last a lifetime with the right care.
Here are a few quick tips on how to look after your vintage finds:
– Hand wash or dry clean only
– Use a gentle detergent and cold water when washing
– Do not use bleach
– Hang to dry and do not put in the dryer
Most importantly, if you rip or tear a vintage item, don’t just throw it away. There is a huge range of options, including upcycling, which can give your vintage items a new lease of life.
What is upcycling?
Upcycling is the process of taking something that might have been seen as waste and turning it into a new product. This can be done with all sorts of materials, including vintage clothing.
There are a few ways to upcycle vintage clothes. If you’re handy with a sewing needle, you can crop items or alter the fit. You could also use vintage clothing as a source of fabric for new projects. If you’re not so confident with a needle and thread, there are other ways to upcycle vintage clothes. You can turn them into accessories, like bags or headbands, or even repurpose them as home decor items.
There are plenty of tutorials online that can help you out and inspire you.
Final thoughts
The popularity of vintage clothing in modern fashion is not a surprise.
It’s a great way to show your style and personality, and it’s environmentally friendly too. Some people view it as a low-cost method of looking good. Others personally identify with vintage clothing of eras gone by.
So next time you’re in the mood for a new piece of clothing, consider raiding your local thrift store or charity shop!