Fashion- How to: be the best vintage shopper

   Hey everyone, for today's post I am going to give you some tips and tricks on how to be the best vintage shopper, along with 2 vintage shows that are worth your time stopping by. To start off, you may be wondering what vintage shopping really is. I always knew that it was shopping for "antique" clothing, but I never really knew what to look for. Basically, when you are vintage shopping, you are on a quest to find unique pieces that look good on you, that evoke the style from the past.
   Below are the two shows I suggest you check out (click on the links to visit their sites)

1) FEBRUARY 3RD & 4TH, 2012

MANHATTAN VINTAGE CLOTHING AND ANTIQUE TEXTILE SHOW AND SALE
Friday, February 3rd - 1:00 PM TO 8:00 PM
Saturday, February 4th - 11:00 AM TO 6:00 PM
Metropolitan Pavilion
125 West 18th Street, NYC
(Between 6th & 7th Aves)
Directions
Admission $ 20.00

http://www.manhattanvintage.com/upcoming.shtm

2) 

VintageFashionAndTextileShow.com "The largest show of its type in the World" 2012 Sturbridge, Massachusetts MONDAYS May 7 July 9 September 3  General Admission - $10 10:30 am  early admission - $20 9:30 am  Show closes at 5:00 pm  ONE DAY * INDOORS * BRIMFIELD WEEKhttp://www.vintagefashionandtextileshow.com/

   Now for the tips and tricks to be the best vintage shopper you can be!

Tip #1: Condition of the piece.

- It is crucial to examine the item you are debating on buying closely to notice any flaws, such as: holes, overuse, and things like: if the buttons, zippers, or details of that nature are the originals.

Tip #2: Go with your gut

- If the item you like fits you well, don't wait any longer. Remember: these pieces are one of a kind, and very special. When one fits you perfectly, and has a flattering shape, buy it!

Tip #3: The Story Behind it

- Never be afraid to ask questions, if you are looking to buy an expensive piece you want to make sure it is authentic. Often times, sellers may even know whose piece it was, it is important to know where your item is coming from

Tip #4: Tags!

- Try looking for tags in the clothing. If it has a name brand tag in it, such as Chanel, chances are the piece is very valuable, and you also have more info about what you may be buying.

- Tip #5: Take the seller's card

- Sometimes when you go to a vintage clothing show, the person you are buying from moves around from show to show so he/she can make money, so, it is helpful to have the seller's card incase you are interested in buying more from them, or to get a hold of them in case you would like to buy the item you didn't purchase. After all, shopping at shows is completely different from shopping at say, Bloomingdales. You can't decide one day you don't want to buy something, and then the next day go back and try and find it. Sellers travel all over!

- Tip #6: Don't be afraid to bargain

- Sellers will try and make you pay for as much as they can get out of you, even if the price might not be fair. This is why you need to study the item carefully so you can be the judge of how much the price should be.

 I hope this post was a helpful one! In the comments tell us if you have any vintage shopping tips, it would surely be very helpful to us! Happy 2012!!! xoxo- Paris