In the early 1970s, fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent set the fashion world on its ear when he flooded the catwalk with models wearing what one critic would refer to “rehashes of his mother’s 1940s evening gowns.” Padded shoulders, plunging necklines and short cut furs in electric green were not what the public was expecting, but it’s what they got! In his defense the designer would release a statement saying, “It was a reactions against the turn fashion has taken, the gypsies, long skirts and bangles…I did my collection as a kind of humorous protest, only everyone took it seriously.”
Fast forward to 2022 and once again vintage clothing is at the forefront of fashion and being taken very seriously. Creating a look that is uniquely theirs while recycling the closet contents of the past seems to appeal to today’s savvy shoppers who are ringing up record sales at the over 25,000 resale and thrift shops currently operating in the U.S.
So, what are they buying? When I want to know what’s trending in the world of vintage clothing my “go to” gal is the amazing Tammy Rossman Dyson, a.k.a. “The Vintage Gypsy.” Clients from across the country visit her shop on the second floor of the Southport Antiques Mall to enhance their wardrobes with her unique finds. Tammy not only caters to local shoppers but has also assists buyers from both coasts shopping for theatrical productions and movies needing period pieces for their projects. Here are her top sellers.
Lingerie tops the list with full and half slips, garter belts, camisoles and nightgowns of silk and nylon from 1950-1970 selling as fast as they hit the shelves.
Chunky over-sized 1980s sweaters in bright colors and geometric patterns are back in vogue for the winter of 2022. Long sleeve cardigans and ballet wrap-over sweaters are top sellers for women, while the men who frequent the shop are taking home pullovers and roll-neck sweaters which provide both style and warmth for this cold Indiana winter. The BIG shoulder look from this era is back with sweaters featuring shoulder pads or shoulders that slope off the natural shoulder line to create a broader look. Ever wonder where the “ugly sweater came from? It was the 1980s!
The cowboy look goes urban this year with western boots and shirts and plenty of fringe! Combine those with denim jeans, prairie dresses or skirts and you are good to go for casual or a night of clubbing. Also be on the lookout for gaberdine shirts with chain stitching and floral embroidery. This is an genre of style where you don’t want everything to match. To avoid looking too put together, make sure that your denim pieces have a subtle variation in their washes.
The majority of vintage clothing has been worn but occasionally pieces surface from old warehouse stock. These unworn pieces can be of considerably higher value than their previously owned counterparts, especially if the tags are present. But, beware! Clothing that has never been circulated may be warehouse “deadstock” that was held back due to flaws, so inspect each piece carefully.
Selecting the proper size can be tricky when you are shopping vintage. In general, people were smaller pre-1980 than they are today. For this reason most vintage clothing did not come in XL or XXL and what constituted a size medium in 1972 would by today’s standards be an extra-small. Take your time and try on that piece that you simply must have. Until next time . . . Linda
Linda Kennett is a professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and may be reached at 317-258-7835 or lkennett@indy.rr.com
