Fashion trends come and go, but there’s one “trend” that never goes out of style—shopping vintage. And yes, it sounds crazy. You would think anything “vintage” is a past “trend” and therefore inherently out of style. But with vintage styles, that simply isn’t the case. Why?
Well, the answer isn’t as complicated as you may believe. In truth, fashion has a circular cycle. Everything that was once popular will become popular again. Albeit, when trends come back around, they usually need to be styled with contemporary trends to feel fresh. But that doesn’t stop vintage styles from gaining popularity time and time again.
So What Is Vintage Fashion
The term “vintage” refers to clothing or even accessories that are at least 20 years old, but not older than 100 years old. Once an item is about 100 years old it officially becomes an antique. Vintage clothes have the power to transport us to eras gone by all while making a unique fashion statement in the present. And the best vintage clothes make it easy to identify what era they came from.
That’s why items like bell-bottom jeans from the 1970s or even band t-shirts from the 1990s are so popular among thrifting enthusiasts. When you’re wearing them, there’s no mistaking which era the fashion is from—because each decade has distinct style characteristics, that reflect the social, cultural, and artistic movements of their time.
Why Vintage Fashion Is Popular
Experts believe the term “vintage” cropped up among fashion enthusiasts around the 1940s. But it wasn’t until the 1960s when a larger number of second-hand shops started popping up around the country did we see “vintage thrift shopping” resemble what it looks like today.
Shoppers of this time were clamoring for unique and stylish pieces to add to their wardrobes. And second-hand shops provided easy access to affordable vintage options that were usually high-quality and felt one-of-a-kind. Thrift shopping has dipped in and out of popularity through the decades for several reasons—like affordability, convenience, and drive for a unique style. And currently, with the popularity of thrifting with eco-conscience Gen-Z, thrifting is currently experiencing its most popular revival yet.
Start Your Vintage Journey Today
Getting started on your vintage journey isn’t difficult to do. To embrace vintage style, explore local second-hand, thrift, and vintage shops. Look for well-preserved garments, paying attention to the fabric, construction, and condition. Style your vintage pieces by mixing them with modern accessories to create your own unique style. And don’t be afraid to experiment with whatever vintage pieces speak to you.