3 Practical Tips When Going Vintage Dress Shopping

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Most of us are scared to venture into the world of authentic vintage clothing (read: vintage = pre-loved items) mostly because we don’t know what to look for and how to get good value for our hard-earned cash.

The rooms in Hughenden Manor, the country house of the Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli, are dressed in 1940's homemade decorations in keeping with its wartime historyThe rooms in Hughenden Manor, the country house of the Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli, are dressed in 1940’s homemade decorations in keeping with its wartime history

Here are three helpful tips to remember:

1. They’re vintage. Get over small imperfections.

These items are pre-loved, so expect small stains, missing buttons, and the like.

Bear in mind that these imperfections should coincide with the price.

2. If you plan to wear them, make sure they’re still wearable!

Vintage can mean anywhere from the 1970s to turn-of-the-century dresses.

Inspect your garment, and assess whether or not it can still withstand everyday use — trust us, you don’t want to get caught with a torn seam in the middle of a busy day!

3. This time, size does matter.

Whether we like it or not, people were a lot smaller and thinner a few decades ago, so be sure to check out the garment’s measurement especially if you are buying online from a consignment store.

There you go, ladies, we hope those three tips will help you on your quest for the perfect vintage find. Meanwhile, you can browse The Yo! Store for some inspiration — or maybe even the dress of your dreams! Take your pick:

1. Incredible Gold Crepe Dress, $198

Condition: Near perfect; minimal staining at the bottom of the hemline; a tiny mark on the cape.

Incredible Gold Crepe Dress

2. Incredible Silk Sequin Dress, $128

Incredible Silk Sequin Dress

3. Strapless Sweetheart Polka-Dot Dress, $98

Strapless Sweetheart Polka-Dot Dress

4. 70s Sheer Floral-Print Dress, $58

70s Sheer Floral-Print Dress

5. Bib Collar Polka-Dot Dress, $58

Bib Collar Polka-Dot Dress

Credit: WENN / Avalon