Who would’ve guessed? These days, one of the best ways to look fresh is by wearing something secondhand. Throughout time, vintage clothes have been prized for their quality and rich history. Especially in today’s world, where fabrics are mass-produced and not always made to last, it’s easy to see why people would treasure unique, vintage styles.

They don’t make ‘em like they used to.

Vintage clothing typically refers to clothing produced from the 1920s to the 1980s. Years ago, people made clothes to be worn again and again, passed down through generations. Generous seam allowances and hems allowed for alterations and custom fittings. And detailing like hand-finishing, unusual buttons, beading, and handmade lace added a quality and polish that’s hard to find today.

Put simply, clothing back then was made better, so it has lasted longer.

What’s your story?

Many of the more serious collectors will talk about an outfit’s provenance. That refers to where a garment has come from. Who owned it, and when? Where has the garment been? What has it seen? Where there’s a rich history, the garment will become more valued.

This can be true from a cost perspective but also from a sentimental one. Provenance plays a role when a daughter wears her mother’s wedding dress down the aisle. It’s fashion that bespeaks the power of generations, which is always a moving thing to behold.

Express your vintage style.

You don’t have to own vintage Chanel  to enjoy vintage style. Look in your own closet or ask your mother if there’s anything left in her attic. Get up there, open up boxes, and explore! These finds are the heart and soul of the vintage world.

You can also find vintage styles in stores today. Fall ’09 is filled with styles that play on 60s, 70s and even 80s trends. Or check out secondhand stores for fun T-shirts and finds that’ll add some spice to your wardrobe.

Brought to you by Tide Vintage T-shirts.

Discover the unique T-shirts that inspired our interest in vintage! While they aren’t secondhand, they certainly lend a hand: All profits from our Tide Vintage T-shirts go toward helping families affected by disasters, like Hurricane Katrina and the California wildfires.

Tide Vintage T-shirts are also the perfect way to express vintage style. Each T-shirt is made of soft, distressed cotton and sports the original, vintage Tide logo. They’re the perfect way to start your own vintage collection! Learn more.

Sources:
http://www.vintagevixen.com/learn/aboutVintage.asp
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vintage_clothing