Reasons for My Vintage Love Affair

In my opinion, one of the biggest absurdities of fashion is the overt focus on which brand is what, hot and on who. As pretentious as that sentence sounds, it is exactly why vintage fashion has always been more appealing to me. Vintage clothing takes me to the past while I stay in the present, modernizing what has graciously given fashion a backbone. Forget about the over-crowded shopping malls and enjoy some retail therapy by hunting for vintage treasures. Here's a list of some other reasons why I believe in vintage shopping and why you should too!

1. Spontaneity. Of course in the world of fashion, labels will always have influence and power that many of us envy. However, I find it interesting and creatively challenging to walk into a second-hand store or flea market and never having a plan. Who knows, one day I'll come out with a fabulous beaded cardigan or an adorable pleaded skirt. I always think of shopping as an adventure rather than a mission.

2. One-of-a-kind. One of the most unpleasant, stinging feelings (other than a paper cut) is walking into a store and seeing your 'unique' top in 10 other colors and mass produced around the world. The best thing about vintage clothes is its rarity! Admit it, who doesn't cringe at the sight of someone else in the same top you own! Plus, you appreciate it more knowing you may never find the same one again. No matter what I find, I always come out satisfied knowing I bought the only one.

3. Recycle, Reduce, Reuse! Not only is second-hand shopping affordable, its good for the environment! As little change you may think it does for the environment, believe it or not, every little bit makes a difference. Most vintage/thrift stores donate to great causes and allow you to bring in your old clothes to sell, trade, or simply donate. This TED talk with Jessi Arrington shares her simple impact on the environment by thrift shopping.

4. Imagination. The way the racks are overfilled with colorful hues and patterns and how you must go through each piece of clothing before you leave the store satisfied.  I imagine the clothes having its own story. I imagine how fabulous it must have been back then and inspire to relive its glory days ;) Vintage clothing has taught me to take risks and express myself more boldly.

5. Quality over quantity. When you think about vintage clothing stores and how far back most of the clothing came from, you can be sure it will easily last for another decade or two. If there is one thing I loathe, it's buying clothing that like to self-destruct in the wash.

Above all, the most important thing is to feel confident in what you're struttin'! Whether that's in brand names or thrift finds, find clothes that reflect your personality rather than which brand is what, hot and on who!

aesthetically yours,
J.