Newsletter Updates
Although buying vintage has a true eco-friendly aspect it is in fact a plus for us here at GWV, it was not our main motivator in acquiring beautiful vintage garments. For us it has always been the special history of the pieces, we love to imagine the stories the gowns could tell whilst the true quality and craftsmanship of these uniquely beautiful pieces never fail to fill us with pleasure.
Vintage garments are one of a kind, they are true treasures and it is important to give special attention to acquiring such a piece.
We believe you should enjoy the process of acquiring your vintage pieces but to ensure you have pieces you can wear and enjoy you do need to take time with your selection.
Whilst we cannot provide you with an exhaustive checklist (all vintage devotees will get caught up in the moment of a beautiful piece and make mistakes from time to time), we have tried here to point out the things to be looked for when making that very special purchase.
Firstly ensure you know your decades, particularly if you are looking for an outfit for a themed event, our decades resource will give you all the key looks for each decade http://gentlywornvintage.co.uk/decades-labels-movements/
You really need to get up close and personal with your desired piece, the quality of fabric and garment construction was very much better before the days of mass production, however all garments and fabrics age and not all have been cared for as well as they might. We cannot emphasise enough the need to take the time to carefully examine the potential addition to your vintage wardrobe.
Hold the garment up to the light – inspect carefully, looking for:
Mothholes - Irreversible and more likely on dark clothing. Many pieces will have some signs of moth damage and will be acceptable even so, however it is important that there is still a possibility of infestation of your wardrobe. If moth damage is present but does not detract from the garment ensure yours is placed somewhere at the highest possible temperature immediately to kill any remaining lava.
Fading - Almost all garments fade somewhat with age to check how much fading there has been (this will be an indicator of future fading too) turn the garment inside out and check seams, if fading there is minimal then you should not have too many concerns.
Tears – Tears can generally only be repaired invisibly if in seams, tears in the general fabric of the garment can be repaired but very difficult to do so invisibly, particularly in finer fabrics such as chiffon, nets and lace which need careful examination. As with moth damage some finer tears may not detract from your garment for you. Any tears or damage should be repaired immediately as they will only worsen once the garment is being worn again.
Particular attention should be given to older antique fabrics which may have begun to disintegrate and will be very difficult if not impossible to repair without further damage.
Stains - Mildew stains are virtually impossible to remove as are rust stains and careful thought should be given to any piece with such stains if the garment is to be worn.
Always check armpits carefully as well as cuffs, collars and hems for staining.
Perspiration stains are difficult but not impossible to remove and we have been very successful in removing many such stains. Our Care Guide below explains our preferred methods for dealing with such stains.
Odours - Often pieces will not have been as carefully stored as one might hope and musty odours can linger. These can be removed in most cases and should not be a major concern. (***AGAIN CARE GUIDE)
Embellishments – Check closely, although some missing pieces often do not detract from the overall effect it is nonetheless very difficult to replace missing vintage sequins and embellishments exactly.
Embellishments pre 1960s were generally hand sewn with continuous thread and broken threads will mean vulnerable embellishments which must be repaired immediately.
Fastenings - Always check all fastenings and factor the cost of repairs into your purchase.
Zippers - Most vintage fabrics will have metal zippers, always check they are working that they move smoothly and teeth are not missing. Zipper lube can be bought to mobilise sticky zippers again.
Buttons – Buttons would generally be covered and antique/vintage buttons can be quite costly so check all buttons by fastening and unfastening as well as any hooks (much easier to replace).
Always turn every garment inside out and check the seams, hems, linings, pockets. Always check sleeves at the point where they meet the body as damage here can be difficult to repair and will continue to deteriorate on wearing.
FURS - Always rub fur and separate the pelt, if it shreds or there are signs of splitting it will not wear well and furriers are very difficult to find and expensive!
The fabrics of the past (pre 1960s) do not have the movement or stretch of the synthetic fabrics of today. You will need to ensure you have breathing room in vintage garments, tight fitting will lead to embarrassment!
Much better to go slightly larger to allow room and this will also allow for alterations.
Buy an item too small you will not be able to alter it and it will not breathe with you…
If you do have any questions about buying or caring for your vintage which are not answered here email carole@gentlywornvintage.co.uk and we will do our very best to help...