How to Date Vintage Clothing Fabric

Vintage clothing often follows fashion trends that disappear and then reappear decades later (like loose pants being back in style again in the 2020s). Looking at the fabric a garment is made from is one way to accurately date it.

Understanding vintage fabric can help you find pieces that seamlessly integrate into your wardrobe. Learn what to look for and how to care for it.

History

The fashion of vintage clothing has evolved over the years. Its history is interwoven with the past’s social and cultural changes. From the corsets and top hats of the 1920s to the hippie fashion of the 1960s, the style emerged as an anti-consumerist statement and a way to express oneself. Its popularity spurred rapid growth for the industry.

Many people are drawn to vintage clothing because of its quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. It is also considered to be a more environmentally friendly alternative to modern mass-produced clothing, which has a detrimental impact on the environment.

When buying vintage clothing, it is important to look at the fabric that a garment is made from. This will help determine its age and origin. It is best to avoid relying on labels alone, as they can be misleading. For example, a label may say that a piece is silk satin, but it could actually be polyester. A good way to test the material is by burning a small snippet. This method works best for natural fabrics, but it can be inaccurate for synthetics.

Fabrics

In the days before fast fashion, clothing was made to last and carefully sewn together. The fabrics were often of superior quality and the garments were designed to be beautiful as well as functional.

If you turn a suit from the 1940s inside out, for example, you’ll see layers vintage clothing fabric of interlining and lining that make it look like couture. It’s the same with dresses from this era. The fabrics are high-quality wools and rayons.

Vintage fabrics can also offer a tour of style trends over the centuries. For instance, look for a pattern that uses stripes, gingham plaids or floral prints. These styles were popular in the past but aren’t as common today.

The fabrics used in vintage clothes were usually natural and durable, and they can last decades with proper care. This is in contrast to modern synthetics that are more likely to pill and lose their shape quickly. Additionally, buying vintage supports sustainable fashion because it avoids consuming new materials and resources. This can reduce textile waste and help conserve the environment.

Prints

In the vintage world, prints can tell a story of an era. From the romantic florals of the 1800s to the space-age longings and atomic fears of the 1940s, fabric prints are often a reflection of what’s happening in the world around them. Using these prints in modern designs can help you create your own unique style that is inspired by the past.

The label can also be an important clue about a garment’s age. If the label is woven, it is likely older than if it’s printed. Also, look at the font of the label: script fonts were common in earlier eras, while more modern hippie-influenced fonts are characteristic of later eras.

Lastly, pay attention to how the seams are finished. French seams are a good indicator of a vintage garment, while pinked and serged seams indicate more recent eras. Authentic vintage clothing is made one at a time and with great attention to detail, while garments closely resembling a vintage design are typically mass-produced. These garments are generally labelled as “vintage inspired”. Authentic vintage clothing can be a bit expensive, but it will often last longer than mass-produced contemporary fashion.

Styles

Vintage fabrics capture a moment in time. From the lush, romantic floral Indiennes of the 18th century to the space-age longings and atomic fears of the 1950s. These patterns and themes can also inspire modern designers to riff on their designs in new ways.

The best way to find a piece of vintage clothing fabric that will suit your personal style is to visit stores in person. This will give you the opportunity to touch and feel the fabrics, as well as talk to the store owner. They may have knowledge of specific eras and styles, and can point you in the direction of other places to shop.

When purchasing vintage clothing, be sure to inspect the garment for signs of wear and tear. Also, be aware that vintage clothing often requires special undergarments. If possible, try on the garment to see how it fits. luxury fabrics for clothing It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the care instructions for different fabrics.

Value

The value of vintage clothing fabric can vary widely, depending on the condition and age. Buying from curated vintage shops, thrift stores and estate sales is a good way to find high-quality pieces, but it’s important to carefully inspect garments for signs of wear and tear. For example, a dress in good condition might cost $49 while a similar one with an unremovable stain might sell for $300. A vintage clothing store might offer a return policy, which can help you recoup your investment.

Unlike fast fashion, vintage clothing can last for years and often be worn several times. It also tends to be of higher quality, so it holds up well over time. Consider reusing older clothes as workwear or for events, like weddings and swing dances.

To maximize the value of your vintage inventory, develop a system for sorting and storing items. Durt suggests using a numbering system to identify and track each piece. He also recommends storing items in temperature- and humidity-controlled environments and protecting them from moths and other fabric pests.