First Time Buying Vintage Clothing
Everything You Need to Know to Shop with Confidence
If you've never bought vintage before, it can feel a bit overwhelming.
Different sizing, varying conditions, and no two pieces exactly alike – it's nothing like shopping on a high street site. But that's exactly what makes it exciting.
Here's everything you need to know to make your first vintage purchase a great one.
What Makes Vintage Different?
Every Piece is Unique
Unlike mass-produced fast fashion, vintage items are one-of-a-kind. Once it's gone, it's gone. That scarcity is part of the appeal.
Sizing is Not Standard
A Medium from 1990 doesn't fit like a Medium from 2025. Always check measurements, not tag sizes.
Condition Varies
Vintage pieces have lived. Some are pristine, others show their age. That's why we grade everything clearly – so you know exactly what you're getting.
Quality is Often Better
Older garments were made to last. Thick cotton, real denim, solid stitching – vintage often beats modern quality hands down.
Common Questions from First-Time Buyers
❓ What if it doesn't fit?
Check our measurements carefully before buying. If you're unsure, reach out – we're happy to provide extra details or help you choose the right size.
❓ Do you offer washing services?
Yes! Each piece arrives exactly as shown in our photos. For extra peace of mind, we offer professional washing for just £2.99 per item. Your vintage piece will arrive in pristine condition, washed to perfection and ready to wear.
❓ Will it fall apart?
Not if it's graded well. Our A Crisp and A Worn items are in excellent condition. Even B Grade pieces are structurally sound – they just have minor cosmetic wear.
❓ Is vintage more expensive than new?
Not necessarily. You can find incredible deals on high-quality vintage that would cost far more new. Plus, you're getting better materials and unique style.
❓ Can I return it?
Yes. Check our Returns Policy for full details, but we want you to be happy with your purchase.
How to Shop Vintage Like a Pro
Start with Basics
Your first vintage purchase should be something versatile – a denim jacket, a hoodie, a classic tee. Build confidence before experimenting with bold statement pieces.
Read the Grade
Our grading system tells you everything: A Crisp = Mint condition. A Worn = Loved but perfect. B Grade = Minor flaws, still wearable. C Grade = Project pieces.
Check the Measurements
This is the most important step. Measure a piece you already own and love, then compare it to our measurements. Don't guess.
Measurements never lie. Tag sizes do.
Look at the Photos
We photograph every item in natural light with no filters. Zoom in. Check the details. What you see is what you get.
Read the Description
We note every flaw, every fade, every mark. If something isn't mentioned, it's not there.
Ask Questions
Unsure about fit? Want more photos? Just ask. We're here to help.
What to Expect When Your Order Arrives
Your vintage piece will arrive:
- Clean and ready to wear
- Exactly as described in the listing
- Packed sustainably (recyclable materials, minimal plastic)
It may have:
- A slightly different texture than modern clothes (vintage fabrics feel more substantial)
- Minor signs of age that add character (this is normal and part of vintage appeal)
- A unique smell (not bad, just different – fabrics from different eras have distinct scents)
It will NOT have:
- Surprises or hidden flaws
- A chemical "new clothes" smell
- Excessive packaging
First-Time Buyer Tips
Start Small
Try a t-shirt or hoodie first. Get a feel for vintage sizing and quality before committing to a big-ticket item.
Embrace Imperfection
Vintage isn't meant to be perfect. A bit of fading or softness is part of its charm.
Trust the Measurements
Seriously. Tag sizes mean nothing. Measurements mean everything.
Mix Vintage with Modern
A vintage jacket with modern jeans? Perfect. A retro tee with contemporary trousers? Great.
Be Patient
Vintage shopping rewards patience. Check back often – we add new stock regularly.
Why People Love Vintage (Once They Try It)
Better Quality
Modern fast fashion is designed to last a season. Vintage has already survived decades and still looks great.
Unique Style
You won't see someone else wearing the same thing. Your vintage piece is yours alone.
Sustainability
Every vintage purchase keeps clothing out of landfill and reduces demand for new production.
Value for Money
High-quality materials, iconic brands, and timeless style – often for less than disposable fast fashion.
Still nervous? That's completely normal. But here's the thing: thousands of people buy vintage online every day, and most are thrilled with their purchases.
Why? Because sellers like us take the guesswork out. We grade honestly, measure accurately, photograph clearly, and describe thoroughly.
Your first vintage buy might feel like a leap, but it's a small one – and it's worth it.
Ready to Start?
Welcome to the world of vintage. You're going to love it.