How to Find Vintage Men's Clothing

A "throwback" from the 1950s

What comes around, goes around. Fashions of the past, for men as well as women, are seen today. Recently, for example, the skinny jeans of past years have once again become popular. Some men would rather buy the original clothing, rather than the present remakes. Other men want to wear some of the unique, funky or stylish clothes of the past. There are a variety of ways to find and purchase this clothing. Read on to learn how to find vintage men's clothing.

Instructions

1. Visit vintage clothing shops, consignment shops and thrift shops. Call the store before going, since not all places carry men's wear. In larger cities, there will most likely be several vintage clothing stores. Decide what year of clothing you want, since shops may specialize in certain decades. It will be easier to find clothing after the 1950s.

2. When you go to a vintage clothing store and try on clothes, carefully check the item before buying. You want to look for moth holes, rips, stains, lost buttons and other wear-and-tear issues. If you do not find exactly what you want, ask the clerk if the store has other items in storage that are not in the shop or if there are other people to contact in the area for vintage clothing.

3. Find a schedule of shows in your area by searching online for "vintage clothing fairs" or "vintage clothing shows" with the name of your city or a larger nearby city or state. A list of shows will also be in specialized newspapers and magazines in larger book stores. For larger shows, plan on several hours to visit each booth. Wear something easy to take off and on, for trying on clothes. Ask the vendor to discount items of interest that are priced too high.

4. In the summer, large flea markets will also have vintage clothing. However, it will be difficult to try anything on. It will be easier to buy items such as hats, ties, and shoes that are easy to put on. Be careful of buying something that you have not tried on. There is a good chance it may not fit the way you wish it would.

5. Search online for "men's vintage clothing," and thousands websites will appear. Instead, narrow your search for a time period, clothing style, and/or designer's name. Compare items on price and condition. Enlarge pictures, to see the items best. The merchant should tell you size and condition. Some vendors give color, label and designer, material, how to wash, and measurements if no size is provided.

Tips & Warnings

• Read over the store's definition of clothing condition if available; "good" condition can mean many things. Also read over the return policy.