Shopping at vintage stores is one of the most popular ways to purchase clothing. These stores have everything from home goods to incredible clothing finds. These vintage stores offer customers gently-used items at significantly discounted prices. As vintage stores are beloved worldwide for their low prices, vast inventory, and their convenience, more and more people fall in love with vintage store shopping every day. Shoppers that haven't experienced the euphoria of vintage shopping likely have a few questions regarding cleanliness, donations, and other topics. Consider the following 7 questions and answers to learn everything there is to know about vintage stores.
The 7 Important Questions About Vintage Clothing
1. What Are Vintage Clothing Stores?
A: Vintage stores are shops that sell previously owned items that are considered vintage. Vintage items tend to be fashionable pieces that are from generations gone by. Most vintage shops are boutiques that offer highly-curated selections of vintage fashion and other clothing. These vintage clothing stores offer everything from vintage dresses and jeans to glasses and jewelry. Vintage stores acquire the majority of their inventory from donations, allowing them to sell these items at discounted prices. Since vintage stores feature unique pieces, no two stores will have the same selection, making it easier to purchase truly one-of-a-kind pieces.
2. Is Sizing Different at Vintage Stores?
A: Yes. As sizing tends to vary across brands, vintage stores don’t have a standard model for sizing. Though many items will have sizes on them, it's important to try on all items at vintage stores before making a purchase. When shopping at vintage stores, it also helps to know one's accurate body measurements. This will make it easier to determine if something will fit well or not.
3. Are Vintage Clothing Store Items Clean?
A: All items from vintage stores should be washed before shoppers wear them. As these items have already been worn before, it's important to ensure these pieces are properly cleaned. Though all vintage stores wash their donations before displaying them, these items are often tried on by multiple people before they are finally purchased.
4. What Items Should I Avoid at Vintage Stores?
A: Vintage stores tend to avoid selling certain items, but shoppers may encounter certain pieces that should never be purchased at vintage stores. Items like underwear or swimsuits are items that should all be avoided when shopping at these stores. While these items have likely been cleaned, it's better to avoid them completely to prevent the chance of getting sick, catching bed bugs, or a similar issue.
5. Are Thrift Stores and Vintage Shops Different?
A: Thrifting refers to the method of going to secondhand shops to purchase gently used items. At these thrift stores, one can purchase vintage items. These vintage pieces are generally items of clothing or decor that are at least 20 years old and from distinct periods of time. While many shoppers choose to find vintage pieces at thrift stores, many thrifters love to shop for modern styles as well. Thrift stores have a wide variety of inventory that includes everything from the latest brands to one-of-a-kind pieces that are several decades old.
6. Are Vintage Stores More Sustainable than Traditional Clothing Stores?
A: Since vintage stores sell secondhand items, shopping vintage is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to shop. While one person may have already gotten enough use out of an item, customers shopping at vintage stores are able to give the products a second lease on life.
7. How Do Vintage Clothing Stores Choose Their Donations?
A: Anyone can donate to vintage stores, as long as these items are bagged and in keeping with the store's rules. However, most vintage stores have a strict curation process and they may return certain items that don't meet their standards. When preparing to donate to a vintage store, it's best to call ahead of time to determine if there is a drop-off area, what styles the store is looking for, and to check the store's hours.
