Due to fast fashion, the Vintage rule has now changed from 50 years to 10. Meaning that if you bought something in, say, 2008, it can now be called one of your vintage collectibles. But let’s be clear here, unless it’s a sentimental piece or a high quality item, we can’t just be calling any old thing, “vintage”. That being said, everything’s relative- because if you’re not planning on reselling, then the value you place on it is your own.
I personally hold on to stuff I really love and that is also dear to me. When it comes to housewares- I’ll keep almost all that’s valuable that was passed on to me through generations. Same goes for jewelry and heirlooms. But-When it comes to clothing, I don’t always care in the same sentimental kind of way. Clothing pieces that I keep are first and foremost quality items that I originally purchased because I loved them. Secondly, they must fit me well while being versatile and adaptable enough for me to re-wear and give it a new beginning.
There are just some things that I cannot part with…jackets are my big, big weakness. (We’ll get into handbags another time;) I prefer my vintage items to be suitable for the times and have an edgy and original look. I don’t really mind if the look is rather quirky and a bit outrageous.
If I can give one bit of advice that I use for myself…just make sure that your ‘oldy’ does not actually date YOU. What do I mean? Well, let’s just say you want to wear a look from the 50’s. For some younger women, a whole entire look may work just fine. However, there’s a good chance that if, for example, I were to wear this, I could be mistaken for being stuck in an era. It can be an automatic ‘ager’. That’s not so cool. Avoid this by making sure you always match up your vintage with something very ‘in’ right now. This will add pizzazz, novelty and trendiness to your look. Basically, don’t unnecessarily bring old age upon yourself- just modernize it!
Remember: Vintage is for fashion, glamour, reminiscence, colour, texture and originality. Vintage should be artsy and FUN!
Jacket by Victoria Kyriakides, bought in Thessaloniki, Greece (about 20 years ago- I swear it’s brand new- I’ve only worn it maybe 5 times!). Maryjanes haven’t graduated to vintage yet…Spring 2018, Isaac Mizrahi.
#confessionoftheday : I’m secretly more excited about re- wearing a good vintage piece, than when I wear something new for the first time. Maybe it’s like that saying about women and wine…I’ll drink to that (wink, wink;)
What’s your favourite vintage piece?
