Tip and Tricks to Find Vintage Clothing When Thrifting

Finding vintage clothing while thrifting at Goodwill can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or new to the hunt, knowing how to distinguish between true vintage pieces and thrifted items can make all the difference. 

Vintage vs. Thrifted

Vintage clothing refers to items that are typically 20 years or older and embody the styles and trends of their respective eras. These pieces are often more unique and carry historical value. 

Thrifted clothing, on the other hand, includes a broader range of secondhand items, which may or may not be vintage. Thrifting is about finding affordable, pre-loved clothing from various periods, not necessarily vintage.

Cost Considerations

Vintage: Authentic vintage clothing can be more expensive due to its rarity and historical significance. However, the investment is often worth it for the unique style and quality.

Thrifted: Thrifted items are usually more affordable and can include a mix of contemporary and older styles. This makes thrifting a budget-friendly way to expand your wardrobe.

Quality Differences

Vintage: Vintage clothing is often made with higher-quality materials and craftsmanship compared to many modern fast-fashion items. Look for sturdy fabrics, detailed stitching, and unique designs. 

Thrifted: Thrifted items can vary widely in quality. Inspect each piece carefully for signs of wear, such as stains, tears, or missing buttons, to ensure you’re getting a good deal.

How to Identify Vintage Pieces

• Labels and Tags: Look for older brand labels, union labels, and care tags. Vintage pieces often have tags indicating they were made in the USA or another specific country.
• Construction and Materials: Examine the fabric and construction. Vintage items are usually made from natural fibers and have more intricate sewing techniques.
• Style and Design: Familiarize yourself with fashion trends from different decades to better identify vintage styles.
• Smell and Feel: Vintage clothing often has a distinct smell and feel that differs from modern fabrics due to age and previous storage conditions.

When hunting for vintage clothing, recognizing brand names can help you identify authentic vintage pieces. Here are some renowned brands considered vintage:

1. Levi’s: Known for their classic denim jeans, particularly styles from the 70s and 80s.
2. Chanel: Timeless luxury pieces, especially handbags, jackets, and accessories from the 50s to the 80s.
3. Yves Saint Laurent (YSL): Iconic designs from the 60s and 70s.
4. Dior: Elegant dresses and suits from the 50s and 60s.
5. Burberry: Classic trench coats and outerwear.
6. Gucci: Accessories and clothing from the 70s and 80s.
7. Halston: Stylish dresses and evening wear from the 70s.
8. Calvin Klein: Denim and minimalist pieces from the 80s and 90s.

These brands are known for their quality and distinctive styles, making them highly sought after in the vintage clothing market. When you come across items from these brands while thrifting, you can be confident in their vintage value and appeal. 

Finding vintage clothing while thrifting can be both fun and fulfilling. By understanding the differences between vintage and thrifted items, knowing where to look, and how to assess quality, you can build a unique and stylish wardrobe. 

Don’t be afraid to get creative and alter thrifted pieces to suit your personal vintage aesthetic. Goodwill is always the perfect spot for a treasure hunt!