In its short lifetime, Instagram has become a mecca for vintage boutiques; a destination where one can purchase genuine Chanel, Dior and Prada or the perfect one-of-a-kind houndstooth blazer without leaving your bed.
Read more: From Fendi Baguettes To Chanel Boy Bags, These Are The Best Shops In The World For Designer Vintage
The tricky nature of online vintage means you need to act quickly but avoid panic purchases, which is easier said than done, we know. For this reason Miss Vogue has asked our favourite pre-loved and vintage sellers to reveal their best advice for getting you what you want and help you buy with confidence.
As we wake up to fashion’s impact on our planet (as well as our hand in the destruction) and are encouraged to make more considered purchases, think of this as the ultimate guide to buying vintage online.
Do your homework
It’s ok to ask questions, as a good vintage seller will be knowledgeable about their pieces and willing to answer all queries as well as provide photographs, authenticity cards and measurements.
“A great vintage reseller will take the time to answer your questions about condition and authenticity,” Brit Blanco-Bird, creative director of Treasures of NYC (Bella Hadid and Kylie Jenner’s go-to vintage dealer) tells Miss Vogue. “This is your chance to pick the brain of the people who are experts at this. It is amazing to get the background of vintage pieces. After all, you are essentially buying into a piece of history!”
Questions to keep in mind? “Does this bag have a backstory? What year are these sunglasses from? What collection was this from?” says Brit.
Likewise, Emilia Musacchia, who runs Eveliina Vintage, the home of diaphanous gowns and slinky slips, with her mother Eeva Musacchia, implores you to take stock of defects and fabrication too.
“What is the fabric? How do I take care of it? Are there any defects?” Musacchia lists, adding pre-loved clothing and accessories will have imperfections so be realistic about how you can take care of or fix pieces.
Have your measurements on-hand
Knowing your measurements will save you from frustration and vintage-related heartbreak and, ideally, give you the power to act fast when the right piece comes along.
“Sellers will more often include measurements in the listing rather than size,” Clare Lewis of London-based Retold Vintage explains. “Embrace the tape measure and get to know your own body measurements to ensure the fit of an item is right for you.”
Take stock of reviews and return policies
Bad reviews and unclear refund or exchange policies should all be red flags. Research a vintage seller, read their reviews and Instagram comments to get a sense of their reputation and, above all else, trust your instincts!
“If the description is not clear and articulate, steer clear of that seller,” Elif Filyos of the eclectic Singulier MTL tell Miss Vogue, adding that it’s wise to “look for customer reviews or recommendations; it’s always a good sign to know there are pleased customers.”
Echoing Elif’s comments Clare asserts: “For me trust is a huge factor and picking sellers you can trust is key to an enjoyable shopping experience. Look for accounts that have positive customer feedback and engagement, clear photographs and descriptions and if you do like flexibility with your purchase be clear on their refunds and exchange policy!”
Be realistic about price
There shouldn’t be a huge disparity between price and quality, says Paula Prieto of Alabama Collect, whose tight edit of wearable vintage pieces have garnered quite a cult following.
“Make sure that the price [is in line with the quality] of the product, it’s always good to get informed about what the original prices were,” Paula notes. If you can, familiarise yourself with original price points or, if possible, what prices similar pieces are commanding.
“Set your expectations!” Brit explains, adding, “sometimes a cheaper price unfortunately reflects poorer quality. Educating yourself on the condition of the piece you are coveting will only help set your expectations. Remember these are 'pre-loved' pieces and while many can still be in like-new condition, most vintage bags are not going to be perfect. That's the best part, though! Each flaw tells a story.”
Buy what you really, really love
Being conscious of our fashion footprint extends to vintage and pre-owned too. While you do need to be swift to secure what you want, don’t get hung up on trends and take responsibility for where pieces you no longer want end up.
“Try not to buy vintage that is too trendy – for example a very 90’s piece just because it’s in right now, it will be the same as buying from high street because you’ll get bored of it and toss it out next season,” Elif urges, explaining that it’s no use buying “something too decade-y if you’re not specifically into a style. Try to look for modern, quality pieces [instead].”
Similarly, don’t use vintage as an excuse to buy up dozens of pieces and then toss what doesn’t work. Being a conscious consumer is as much about buying less as buying smart. Pre-loved pieces should be a treasured investment, not something to throw away - remember, these pieces could have gone to someone who really loved them.
Instead, take stock of what you need and want. Write a list and keep an eye out for pieces that tick all your boxes and meet your requirements. If a piece doesn’t work, find a friend of family member who might appreciate it.
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