Collecting Vintage Clothing

 

While museums and private collectors have been accumulating vintage clothing for years, it is fast becoming a favorite collectible of many antique buffs.

Once scorned as simply “second hand”, these costumes , accessories and articles of everyday clothing have caught the imagination of a whole new generation . Some individuals wear them to create a unique personal fashion statement, while others prefer to collect them to display in their own homes. Either way, the trend is hot!

Retro clothing styles from the 50’s, 60’s, and even 70’s are becoming popular with younger collectors who never wore them the first time around.

I remember a particular dress I sold a few years ago on behalf of a consignor. It was an evening gown with an ankle length black taffeta skirt and matching bustier with spaghetti straps. Attached to the waistline was a black chiffon over - blouse with small capped sleeves and a stand up, almost oriental collar in black satin – typical features of 1950’s evening wear.

It was beautiful, but the owner had been tiny, as seems to be the case with so much vintage clothing –especially early 20th century clothing.

I had almost despaired of ever selling it until one day a lovely (and slim) woman came into the store.

She spied this black gown lying across our four poster bed and was moved to try it on – she had never considered trying on, let alone buying a vintage dress. The effect was startling – It was, as the cliché says, “as if it had been made for her”. She bought the dress, and left the store excitedly planning where she would wear it.

Not all finds are such a perfect fit. Much vintage clothing and accessories are collected to display like any other collection. Victorian and early 20th century clothing appeals to this group. Some collectors have specific areas of interest such as uniforms, hats, shoes, hatpin's etc.

Hard to find articles such as designer name clothing and men’s clothing articles also find favor with theme collectors. Christening gowns and wedding dresses are easier to come by and are excellent and affordable options for novice collectors.

One of the greatest challenges of collecting vintage clothing is the cleaning of these delicate textiles. Proper handling is crucial as is finding a cleaning outlet that specializes in cleaning these fabrics. Ask the agent what they do to protect and clean old textiles that is different than what is normally done. If the answer is no difference, go elsewhere.

Check with local antique stores who carry textiles such as linens and lace and/or clothing for their personal recommendations.

Another source is your local university’s textile department. Careful cleaning, cataloging, researching and photographing your collection will ensure your vintage clothing a long life and increased value over the years.

Written by Johanne Yakula

From Times Past

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