While it’s often hard to determine the next big thing when it comes to Fifth Avenue whims and the haute couture found on Paris runways, trendy fashionistas the world over continually clamor for designer clothing and accessories to finish out their latest look. This is especially true for fashionable ladies who dictate their own personal style, and enjoy accessorizing in unique and exciting ways that set them apart from the crowd.
A visit to any local fashion mall or upscale clothing retailer provides a clue about the current trendy looks in fashion clothing and accessories. But considering vintage as an alternative can often yield something a little more special while delivering more bang for the buck than plunking down your hard-earned cash in any old retail outlet.
How so? Take these savvy points into consideration:
Vintage Remains Affordable – Especially when compared to upscale designer goods, you’ll find vintage clothing and accessories more affordable at all price points. Leading fashion magazines often feature spreads showing new jewelry and handbags whereas similar vintage accessories can be purchased in antique malls or through online auctions for a good deal less. Example: Chunky wooden bangles selling for $100-300 retail during a trend revival could be found through vintage outlets for a fraction of that price. Sure, it’s fun to browse those trendy boutiques and high style magazines. But window shopping there and saving your cash for a favorite flea market or an estate sale in an upscale neighborhood will make your dollars for designer goods go much further. You'll leave feeling like a pampered princess with change to spare, and there's nothing like the thrill of the chase when it comes to vintage shopping.
Vintage Retains Value – When you buy vintage clothing and accessories, you’re making an investment. Given that most fashion accessories in the low to mid-price range purchased in department stores end up as garage sale or resale shop material after the trend passes anyway, buying a vintage piece instead can be a wise choice. For the about the same price as a new piece, you can find a vintage necklace, handbag or hat, often with a designer label, that will retain its value more readily. Vintage garments are often far less than a comparable new dress or suit would sell for in a boutique. When the item has run its course in your wardrobe, you can sell it to a vintage clothing dealer in your area or auction it online to net quite a bit more than you would with a new purchase.
Vintage Radiates Style – Most current fashion trends are a reflection of the past. Remember “Boho,” short for bohemian? This was a dressed-up version of the late 1960s hippy look combined with elements of 1970s and ‘80s style as well, especially when it came to chunky wooden jewelry. The vintage brooches people were mad about mimic fashion sensibilities from the 1940s, ‘50s and early ‘60s. Even resurrecting a pair of urban cowgirl boots from the 1970s can be so much more affordable than scouting out a new pair. And as a comfortable bonus, a vintage pair will more than likely be broken in for you. As they say, what's old is new again. And, best of all, the quality and craftsmanship of older pieces, whether you're talking garments, jewelry, purses or even shoes, is almost always superior to modern items made in vintage styles.
So, why settle for an newer imitation when you can sport the real deal, and for less money when compared with new designer goods? It’s a lot more fun to tell friends and acquaintances “it’s vintage” when they compliment your accessories, and doing so certainly sets you apart from the crowd in a unique and stylish way.
