It’s not all the time but I’m asked often enough where I found this or bought that, and where most of those things are vintage. As much as I’m proud to have found these unique items, I know that little heart crumple all too well when you hear it’s a one-off piece and you won’t find that same item again. But as a non-gatekeeper, the least I can do is share with you my tips and tricks of how I find my gems. And my shopping philosophy to not ‘treat myself’ to bankruptcy. 

When it comes to second-hand, vintage, pre-loved (whatever you want to call it) clothing, there are three categories I break them down into. My level of excitement, patience and sureity of dropping the $$ varies depending on to which category the item belongs.

Timeless browse.

These are the items that will forever scream “vintage”, “thrifted”, “from a different time” that will dip in and out of being at the front of trends but will always have a place in your wardrobe. 

Your approach here shouldn’t be a grab-and-go but still be intentional, that you are being selective on what kind of graphic print it features, or what level of wear, the colour combo of the plaid that you’re finding. Take it at face value; your decision here should be swift. You need it or you don’t. 

Graphic tees, flannels, waffle knit shirts, collegiate jumper, workwear/ well-worn items.

Exclusive hunt.

This is that one item that you have in your mind that you think you’ve seen somewhere before (or maybe you invented it in your mind), and you’ve scoured the www and hit the high street with no luck. But you’re (pretty) sure that this item exists…

Take your time and be patient here. Don’t fall back on a ‘next best’ unless you’re really reaching the end of your rope and you know you will equally appreciate and care for the backup. But this item shouldn’t be trend driven or short-lived within your possession. You should be hunting this because you’ve identified it as a gap within your personality or identity of a wardrobe. And when you do find it, you buy it with no regrets - and you eat bread and $1 noodles for a week if you have to.

Jeans of a specific dye/wash, a full length skirt with a specific flare, a bomber jacket with the perfect colour combo, a leather trench with this bell but not that whistle.

Unique discovery.

This is the piece that you were never looking for, that you’ve never seen. You don’t NEED it, but it’s too good to leave unpurchased. It’ll be the piece that your children will be proud and excited to discover in your closet. And you know that the resell value (either in dollar or admiration) will never depreciate. 

It’s the unicorn of vintage. This is where you can umm and ahh. You know that you’ve just made a unique discovery, but is it for you to take home with you? Are you the rightful owner of this piece, or will it suit someone better. Will you end up taking it home for it to just sit at the back of your wardrobe, where it won’t get to show itself. Just a thought…

Designer shoes, timeless jewellery, magical fabric, could become an heirloom.

• Be open and accepting to flaws.

• Just because it’s old and used doesn’t mean you should approach or treat it as such. Lean more towards acknowledging that it was once well-loved and now it’s your turn.

• When you buy something you’re taking on the ownership of the item. Are you a good owner for it? Will you take care of it? Do you deserve that role for it? 

• Are you forcing the item to fit you? ie, does it need a lot of tailoring.

• Is this temporary for a quick fit, or one that can be a part of your wardrobe family?

These might be too philosophical of questions to be considering when all you’re doing is deciding whether this vintage Harley shirt is cute or not. But I believe that having intention in the purchase of ANYTHING makes the value of that item higher for you and is respectful to the creator, seller, and now owner (you) for the item.