Vintage shopping has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years – with ‘come vintage shopping with me’ videos rife on TikTok, where the hashtag ‘vintage’ has amassed 13.1 billion views so far.
Plus, pre-loved fashion platforms are taking over online retail space, with shoppers turning to sites like Vinted and eBay to source one-off finds.
“Post-pandemic, people have become a lot more conscious of our shopping habits and seeing that we just do not need as much stuff – we are trying to be more sustainable and reduce what we send to landfill,” says stylist and fashion expert Corina Gaffey, who began her career as a stylist over a decade ago in Dublin.
“With the resurgence of the Nineties and Noughties on the catwalk, fashion has pushed Gen Z towards the more circular economy with vintage and pre-loved shopping.”
AdvertisementView this post on Instagram
So, how can we make the most of vintage shopping and get the best out of pre-loved items? Gaffey shares some top tips…
1. Pick something vintage but not dated
The perfect buy is often “something that looks quite contemporary, is in good nick and will have a long life”, says Gaffey. “There is no point in buying something second-hand that doesn’t suit you well.”
2. Be realistic with repair jobs
If you’re able to do some minor repairs to bring an item back to life or wearable condition – great. “But consider what will be easy and worth repairing. Check under the arms for damage to the most worn big of fabric,” says Gaffey.
Some clothes may be beyond repair, or it would take too much time and money to get them fixed.
3. Dress down bold items
You may have seen a piece out there while in a vintage store or online and thought, ‘Wow, that is so unique’. Bold and bright clothes could be great to add to your wardrobe, but may go to waste if you do not know how to style them.
“If something is a bit out there, have a more understated outfit so it doesn’t look like a costume,” suggests Gaffey. “Bring modern elements in with a vintage piece, so you don’t look too like you have walked out of a costume shop.”
4. Tailor old fabrics into modern gems
If there is a material or colour you love, but the shape isn’t so hot, consider using a local tailor to adapt them.
“Tailor materials you love to more contemporary styles if you want day-to-day wear,” says Gaffey.
5. Pick staple items
“Things like leather and denim jackets always look better with age, and maybe try handbags and accessories, vintage earrings and scarves,” she adds. “Denim jeans are a great place to start, with vintage college sweatshirts and T-shirts.
“Add a trench coat – they are great to buy vintage and you may find beautiful Burberry ones. Or pair a vintage blazer with jeans and a T-shirt and you can create your desired silhouette.”
6. Be patient
“Vintage shopping is harder work – it will take more digging through and trial and error compared to the ease of high street shopping, but you will find unique gems with a lovely history,” says Gaffey.
To increase your chances of finding that gem, consider a variety of sources – including charity shops, flea markets and websites. Gaffey adds: “There are great websites to look for different styles and sizes.”
