However, over the years,vintage trendshave become big business, both online and in stores.

Find out what you should probably know when selecting sizes or brands and looking for imperfections.

You’ll even discover why a measuring tape might become your new bestie.

Woman shopping in vintage store

Well, you’d be sorely mistaken.

A size 12 from the 1990s is different from a size 12 today.

And that size 12 of today varies a lot depending on the brand you’re buying.

Woman at store taking notes

Don’t believe it!

Just go to the mall, and you’ll find out.

Therefore, go in well-prepared; don’t let those retro looks get the better of you.

Inside a thrift store

Older brands tend to have more quality than brands of today.

Just look at that refrigerator in your grandma’s house that is still working after 50 years.

Another form of research is the inspection of the garment at the store.

Smiling woman with tape measure

Therefore, have specific clothing or an era of clothing in mind before you dive in browsing.

Specific places to find vintage online include Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Thrifted, and Tradesy.

Something that looks great on the screen can be a hot mess when it comes home.

That means it’s beneficial to know your way around recycling and reselling your vintage clothing arena.

It’s also nice to try clothing on to ensure you get the look you want.

It can be helpful to check out the charity stores in an older, wealthy community for rare finds.

Beyond those stores, consider hitting up auctions and garage sales in and around your area.

The same is true when it comes to vintage clothing.

Knowing a cleaner and tailor that specializes in cleaning and repairing older clothing can be your saving grace.

Many times, the perfect vintage sweater or scarf has a stain, rip, tear, or hole.

But it’s key to know what can and can’t be repaired when it comes to buying.

And let’s face it, sometimes a little imperfection just adds to the personality of the piece.

Because it’s fun to makethrifted vintage clothing look newagain.