Whether or not you think vintage items are nothing more than used clothes, there's no doubt that vintage fashion is hot. All you have to do is keep your eyes open and you can get one-of-a-kind clothing at bargain-basement prices - but where do you shop? Where can you go for the best deals? Read on for some cool tips on vintage shopping.

Vintage Shopping - Do Your Research

Most peeps buy their clothes at malls and department stores, but prices can get sky-high and styles tend to look the same. So if you're looking for a unique pair of cowboy boots or some antique jewelry - but don't want to break the bank - you can find some of the best stuff at thrift stores. Chances are, the vintage styles will be cooler and funkier, and you'll only have to pay a handful of dollars! Before you head down to your local thrift shop, look around and do some online research (the internet auction site, eBay, is a great source of vintage clothes and accessories) to find out how much others are charging for the items you're looking for.

Vintage Shopping - Preparing for Your Shopping Trip

Don't expect to whip through the store in five minutes and score an amazing vintage find. Sure, it can happen, but you'll more likely have to spend a lot of time scouring the racks and bins. So grab your comfiest shoes and plan a day around your shopping trip.

Vintage tends to fit small, so try everything on.

Inspect it before you buy it! Be on the lookout for any stains, rips or holes cuz you can get a discount if it's damaged.

Ask for help and get to know the sales staff - that way, they'll tell you when new stock arrives and keep an eye out for anything specific that you're looking for.

Vintage Shopping - Items to Look for This Season!

Cowboy boots

Moccassins

Vintage T-shirts

Wooden jewelry

Leather '70s purses

Vintage Shopping - Where to Go

Thrift Stores - Value Village and Salvation Army

Pros - Huge selection of clothes, shoes, bags and jewelry that are in good condition.

Cons - Fixed prices (you might be able to get a small discount if the merchandise is badly damaged).

Vintage Boutiques

Pros - Vintage stores have already done the picking for you, so you won't have to spend as much time looking for stuff in good condition. Getting to know the sales staff can help you score sweet deals!

Cons - Prices are a lot higher than at a thrift store or garage sale.

Flea Markets and Garage Sales

Pros - You can bargain, bargain, bargain!

Cons - Merchandise could have stains, torn seams and moth holes. You can't expect to find cool things everytime you go.

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