For those who prize fashion of the past and don’t want to look like anyone else, retro is the way to go. Incorporating vintage garments or accessories into a wardrobe is the style signature of celebrities such as Rachel Zoe, who manage to look current but ahead of the pack at the same time. Shopping for vintage styles is both a treasure hunt and a gamble — sometimes it will pay off, but there are some things to know. Local vintage expert, stylist and self-described “thriftonista” TaRosa Jacobs answers questions and offers these tips on scoring retro fashion finds.
Suzanne S. Brown The Denver Post
1. Is the item a true vintage piece?
Vintage clothes are defined as clothes that are at least 20 years old. Look beyond design (vintage reproduction is rampant) and look at the interior tags and labels. An ILGWU tag stands for International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union, indicating a piece made before 1995. Non-designer items made in New York, San Francisco and abroad were likely constructed before the bulk of manufacturing moved to developing nations in the 1980s.
2. I know it’s vintage, now how can I tell if it will fit me if I can’t try it on?
Most estate sales and some thrift stores do not have changing rooms. Before venturing out to shop for vintage, measure items from your wardrobe that fit you well by laying them flat and noting the measurements at the bust, waist and hips. When going to sales and shops, take your measurements and your measuring tape with you. When in doubt, measure the piece in question and compare it with your notes.
3. How do I check for quality and condition?
Light is your best friend. Take the piece to a well-lit spot. Check it closely for stains; moth holes and tears, dropped hems; split seams (especially under and behind the arms), and perspiration stains. Certain damage can be repaired and some stains might wash out, but be honest with yourself about whether you will repair it and wear it even if the stain is permanent.
4. If the item seems to be overpriced, how can I bargain?
Don’t haggle at a thrift store, where prices are set. At an estate or yard sale, respect the seller. First, ask if they are open to offers. If yes, do not try to lowball them. If you can’t come to an agreement, leave them your contact information and a polite request to contact you if they change their mind.
5. How do I avoid buyer’s remorse?
Be honest with yourself. If the price gives you sticker shock, will you wear it enough to justify the cost? If the item’s design is not something you would usually wear, make sure you aren’t just caught up in the excitement of finding a unique piece. Think about when, where and how you can wear it before you buy it.
TaRosa Jacobs owns Wishlist Vintage, 240 S. Broadway, second floor. Hours are Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 2-7 p.m. and Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday by appointment; more at ; 720-394-3094.
Have a fashion or beauty question you’d like one of our local experts to answer? Contact Suzanne S. Brown: 303-954-1697 or sbrown@denverpost.com.
