by YE

Created on: September 17, 2009   Last Updated: September 18, 2009

Best vintage Finds

Finding the best vintage clothing is not very hard but does take patience. You just need at least one good eye. I have been wearing and selling vintage clothing for 15 years now and I kind of feel bad giving my secrets away.

Yes relatives are the first source but some relatives are not so quick to give up their great memories. So hit the swap-meets, you'd be amazed at all the finds. These sellers are in the sun for about 7 hours, sellers arrive at 6am and leave at 2 or 3pm and are not looking forward to having to pack all their items back in their car or truck. Many bargains are there and sometimes in unbelievable condition. I have actually found dresses crisp mint with original store tags on them for sale priced at $1.00 to $10.00. I would wear the item then turn around and sell it for about $50.00. I bought coats for $40.00 turned around and sold them for $300.00. I collect mainly 40's and 50's clothing, especially dresses and costume jewellery. Back in the years clothing and accessories were made with such clever detail and made to last. Buying these items are a really good investment. I recommend if you find a good vintage piece to invest in a plastic shield to store them in when hanging in the closet, if you live near the beach use cloth shields instead of plastic to protect from moisture. Even if you don't wear the vintage piece anymore, there is always an eager buyer somewhere and chances are they will pay you alot more than what you bought them for.

Next is the local hidden thrift store verses the Goodwill. At the local thrift store there are dollar dresses and items. At the Goodwill there is a flat price around $8.00 regardless of whether the dress is missing a button or has a small stain. The goodwill is also the largest targets for people who are looking for vintage items so you have large competition at the Goodwill.

The last best place is Estate Sales. You can find where and when there is going to be one in your local newspaper or online. Many times I've arrived and see sellers eager to let go of their items which onced belonged to a loved one who has passed on. Rarely estate sales are expensive but a majority are very low priced and sadly many of the sellers are crying. I am guessing these are the children selling their parents' items.

I hope this list helps you all looking for good deals. These are the places where many of the popular vintage store owners get their items from.

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