3 most important things you take into consideration when...

[PutsyMutsy]

After reading so many interesting posts, I realize that I have so much to learn! As an amateur vintage collector, I'm incredibly impressed, you guys and gals are so inspiring and knowledgeable!

So here's a basic, but fundamental (and fun) question: What are the 3 most important things you take into consideration, or look for, when deciding to purchase a vintage piece of clothing.

Would love to hear your thoughts!

Warmly,
Cindy

 

[The Vintage Merchant]

for me, it's

condition
condition
and condition.

and that depends on if i am considering it as something i would wear myself, or, to keep as a collection/display piece, or, to resell.

if i'm buying to resell, then i want it as perfect as possible. if it's for me, i can wear something that has hidden issues. and if it's for display/collection purposes? condition is not as important.

i don't give a hoot about labels. if i FIND a Ceil Chapman, i am thrilled, of course, but i certainly don't "need" a label to buy a garment.

 

[Jen S]

1) Is it gorgeous and do I want it?
2) Is it in good condition?
3) Does it have a good label or is it unusual?

Then of course there's price.

But honestly for me I think (often to my detriment) my main consideration is do I go "Oooohhh!" when I see it.

 

[Linn]

I purchase vintage clothing to wear so the three most important things to me are:

1) I really like it (and will wear it)
2) Fit - if buying in person I always try it on; I carefully check measurements if buying online
3) Condition - needs minor easy repairs if any (preferably none!) I have purchased skirts without zippers and have added snaps.

 

[Robin of Frocksley]

1. Like everyone else, I tend to only buy things in very good-excellent condition.
(...I have been known to keep for myself irreparably shabby but beautiful things.)
2. Definitely the "Oooh!!!" factor Jen S. mentioned, which for me means anything shiny/outrageous.
I have had to learn to walk away from 70's patterned jumpsuits.
3. Does the garment interest me? By this I mean, is it something I want to research and learn more about?

I am also not especially moved by labels, but I will admit a serious weakness for quality fabrics and construction.

Great question! Loving everyone's answers so far!

 

[Midge]

1. Does it fit (when buying for myself)
2. Do I have opportunities to wear it - trying to keep from buying too many evening/cocktail/maxi dresses. When I started buying vintage, I always headed for the evening wear rack first... now it should better be every day wearable, even better if it's useful for business wear.
3. Is it not too damaged and can I just wash it/give it to the normal dry cleaners? I have a knack of buying beautiful things that I think need just a little repair here and there and then of course it gets more... also, it's easier if I can just wash it or it's unproblematic for normal dry cleaners. If I have to take it across the city to the special dry cleaners, it gets complicated!