Grading System
Understanding What You're Buying
At Demand Vintage, we use a simple, transparent 4-grade system that tells you exactly what to expect. No guesswork. No surprises. Just honest assessments of every piece we sell.
Here's how it works.
A CRISP — Mint Condition
Perfect item. No marks or damage.
These are the unicorns of vintage – pieces that look like they've been stored in a time capsule. They've survived decades without fading, tearing, or heavy wear.
What to Expect
- Crisp fabrics, vibrant colors, intact prints
- No stains, tears, or marks
- Minimal to no signs of previous wear
- May still have original tags
Perfect For
- Collectors who want museum-quality pieces
- Anyone who loves pristine vintage
- Gifts or special occasions
A 1990s Nike windbreaker that looks like it just came off the rack.
A WORN — Loved but Perfect
Light signs of wear, but no damage.
These are our favorites. They've been worn and loved, but they're still in excellent condition. Think of them as perfectly "broken in" – comfortable, authentic, and full of character.
What to Expect
- Softened fabric with natural wear
- Possible light fading (adds vintage charm)
- Minor surface marks that don't affect wearability
- No tears, holes, or deep stains
Perfect For
- Everyday wear
- Anyone who loves authentic vintage vibes
- Those who want quality without paying "mint condition" prices
A faded Levi's denim jacket with gentle patina and a perfectly worn-in feel.
B GRADE — Imperfect but Beautiful
Visible wear, but still perfectly wearable.
These pieces have lived. They might have a small stain, a bit of fading, or minor wear on the cuffs. But with a little love (or as-is), they're still great additions to your wardrobe.
What to Expect
- Noticeable but not severe wear
- Small marks, light staining, or fading
- Possible loose threads or minor repairs needed
- Overall structure and wearability intact
Perfect For
- Budget-conscious shoppers
- Those who appreciate "perfectly imperfect" style
- DIY enthusiasts who enjoy small fixes
A vintage band tee with slight armpit staining and gentle overall fading – still iconic, still wearable.
C GRADE — Project Pieces
Significant wear. For DIY enthusiasts.
These pieces need work. They might have tears, heavy staining, or structural issues. But they've still got potential – whether as a sewing project, a source of vintage fabric, or a canvas for customization.
What to Expect
- Heavy wear, visible damage, or structural issues
- Stains, tears, or fading that can't be ignored
- May need repairs, alterations, or upcycling
Perfect For
- Crafters and DIY lovers
- Upcycling projects
- Vintage fabric sourcing
A 70s corduroy jacket with torn elbows and heavy fading – perfect for patching, cropping, or reimagining.
Why Grading Matters
Transparency Builds Trust
When you know exactly what you're getting, there's no disappointment. Our grading system removes the guesswork from buying vintage online.
Fair Pricing
Better condition = higher price. It's that simple. You're never overpaying for a piece that's more worn than you expected.
Sustainability
Even our C Grade items stay out of landfill. By clearly grading everything, we give every garment a chance at a second life – whether as-is or reimagined.
How We Grade
Every item is graded after cleaning. Our team inspects:
Fabric integrity (tears, holes, thinning)
Stains and marks (removable or permanent?)
Fading and color loss
Hardware condition (zips, buttons, snaps)
Overall wearability
We're tough graders. If there's any doubt, we grade down – because we'd rather under-promise and over-deliver.
Still Have Questions?
If you're unsure about a grade or want more details on a specific item, just ask.