Shopping rules I apply when buying vintage and new
Cool factor/uniqueness
I like having unique, hard-to-find clothes that allow me to put together fits that are quintessentially mine. Vintage items, especially the rare ones, are invaluable because I know I won’t see [online or on the street] anyone else wearing the same thing.
Remember those crazy women from the 2000s movies who’d call the other one a bitch for pulling up to the party in the same dress? I removed this option entirely from my life; there’s simply no chance I’ll walk into a place and see someone else in the same fit.
And this approach works well with new clothes, too; just don’t buy for trends and what the masses are buying. Explore fairs, niche brands, mix and match those items, and you’ll create a unique look of your own.
Will it fit the rest of my closet?
Whatever I’m buying has to be within the style/theme of the rest of my clothes. This is a crucial rule (hence so high on my list), because in the past, I often bought something that looked good with what I was wearing that particular day, but was unable to style it with anything else. As a result, I didn’t wear it, felt bad, sold it for cheap on Vinted, or donated.
Can I find it elsewhere?
This one is probably not relevant to everyone, because years of experience give me access to sources and people that not everyone has. So if there’s a chance I will find a particular thing sooner or later in some of those places for a better price, in better condition, etc., I’ll think twice.
Price-to-value ratio
Price-to-value means a lot of things to me, so let me explain. I take a few things into account: what pieces from this era/category usually cost like, if I decide to resell it, will I make any profit, obviously the condition of the item, shipping, customs, and -> point 5.
Who’s behind the brand/the relationship
I care about who’s behind the brand I’m about to leave my hard-earned $$ to. Is it a fellow trader and a nerd I want to support? Is it a brand whose values match mine? Did this person travel across the globe and our paths crossed so I can buy something unique? Again, this might not be important for everyone, and definitely isn’t a thing the majority of people care about, but I’m passionate about clothes and people who spend their time searching for those beautiful things that make my life better, and it’s my way of thanking them.
At fairs and markets: Do I love it or am I being soft?
Although I’m rather tough on myself and difficult to be persuaded into something I’m not entirely sure of, I can think of a few instances where, during a fair or a sale, I’d buy a thing or two because the seller or everyone around told me I look great in something. This pressure, plus lots of compliments, made me end up saying yes to a dress, regretting it immediately yet feeling guilty to change my mind.
I never feel bad after spending a lot on something I love, but spending any amount and feeling like I fucked up - terrible feeling and the worst part of it, it doesn’t just disappear after the purchase, but it haunts you for a long time after!