1.13.2012

Why vintage?



photo courtesy of Sally Clem
It was brought to my attention by a family member that this might be an interesting topic to tackle, so here goes....

I first started selling vintage with this girl in college. There are a great number things I find appealing about it. I could easily write a novel on each of these points, but I will try to keep it short and sweet.

The most obvious is that it's trendy. Yes, I know every hipster and their record collection is into shopping vintage. I get that, and probably like many of you, I'm not immune to such fashion trends. I love keeping up with them, and I think what one wears is an extremely valid form of art and self-expression. It's how we tell people about who we are without even talking to them. That being said, as a fashion trend, vintage is appealing because, more times than not, you are getting a piece that is truly unique, a piece that probably no one else you know can say they own.

Vintage is (often) timeless. I have always loved old things. I love the idea of a piece of jewelry, a dress, or even a table cloth having a story and being present for a bit of history. It some how makes its existence more meaningful to me; it's the idea that this item was appreciated or even loved enough that someone took care of it so it could be around to enjoy for years and years. That is, in my opinion, a pretty amazing thing.  Also, it should be pointed out that every modern designer is somehow inspired by trends from the past and finds ways to recycle or re-work them. Why? because they were great ideas to begin with (re: timeless).

Vintage is an eco-friendly alternative. Are any of you aware how many clothing items end up in landfills? Go ahead and google it because it might just blow your mind. The realization that some people actually like clothing from 30, 40, 50, 60, etc years ago can really do a lot to prevent that from happening. All it takes is the understanding that there is a market for these items, which is definitely something I see happening more and more.

Finally, vintage is usually budget friendly. Everyone knows we are in a recession, and most of us are not immune to the effects of such an economic climate. (yep, I'm talking to the 99%) Not only is it typically inexpensive, but my overall opinion after years of experience shopping for and wearing vintage clothing, is that it is usually better quality. I'm not saying there aren't exceptions, just that from my experience your getting a better product for your money. Who doesn't love that?

So, as it turns out, my post was a little bit long-winded after all. I have lots more I could say on the subject, but at the risk of losing your attention, I'll stop. :) I would absolutely love to hear your thoughts on the matter.

4 comments:

  1. Great post, Kaitlin. I love that you are doing something you love! I have a few vintage dresses that I LOVE. I think the only bad thing about wearing vintage is that it takes time (to look, to find the right piece, to possibly alter it, etc.). I think a lot of people like taking the time to hunt, but sometimes it makes me sad because I feel like I just don't have time to shop in general, much less vintage.

    Maybe that means I need to make a trip to Fayetteville to shop at your store :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. Ashley,
    Yes! That is very true... the hunt is the best part for some and the worst for others. That is, I think, the difference between thrifting and shopping in places that have taken time and selected pieces they love and think people will want to buy. Luckily, Fayetteville is a city that has options for both! Plus, you should just come anyway because I miss you. :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. "I've always loved having a shirt no one else has; the kind of shirt that causes people to wonder where you got it and the story behind it," Crum said.

    joel agrees.

    {http://www.ocolly.com/exclusive-taste-1.1124641#.TxDbvm8eOrY}

    ReplyDelete

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