I love all of the vintage looks I see on this site, but I’m not sure how to shop vintage stores. Do you have any tips for shopping at vintage boutiques?
- Daniella
Rebecca responds
Sure, for starters, focus your search and get to know designers and periods that interest you.
Don’t buy a stained garment. The stain could be 40 years old, and you can’t assume that dry-cleaning will remove it.
Always check for moth holes, tears and missing beadwork.
Buy the best you can afford if it’s an investment piece.
Get exact measurements – older sizes were 1-2 sizes smaller than today.
Familiarize yourself with fabrics and trimming terms.
Ask for tips on storing and cleaning the item.
Buy color rather than black and white.
Go to specialist fairs and markets to meet dealers and handle different styles.
It’s always better to see and handle vintage items rather than buying online. However, if that’s not possible, be sure to ask very specific questions when buying online. A few tips include:
Carefully read the details in the item listings.
Figure delivery costs into your final price. If you spend a lot of money, make sure the seller will insure the item when it ships
Know your seller. Research your seller so you feel positive and secure about every transaction. What is the seller’s Feedback rating? How many transactions have they completed? What percentage of positive responses do they have? Did the seller receive praise? Most top online sellers operate like retail stores and have return policies. Do they offer a money-back guarantee? What are the terms and conditions?
Happy hunting!
My legs aren’t my favorite body part. Can you recommend an alternative to this summer’s short shorts trend?
- Cecilia
Rebecca responds
You are in luck because the full length “maxi dress” is THE dress of the season. The maxi has a fitted upper bodice and a concealing, flowing bottom. It may sound unflattering at first, but it can look great if you know what to look for when shopping for a maxi dress. If prints are your thing, pick out large graphic prints, or exotic and abstract patterns that won’t overwhelm you too much. The right print will make the dress look less everyday shower curtain and more glamorous movie star. Maxi dresses are best paired with wedged heels, thong sandals, embellished slippers or flip flops. The key rule to pulling this off during the day is to find a dress with an empire waist or halter style that touches the ankles instead of the floor. Try the look and see for yourself if the maxi dress works for you. If you don’t want to give elongated dresses a shot during the day, then leave it for night time affairs. You will find the Maxi dress everywhere, but some of our favorites are from Milly, Forever 21, Anthropolgie, Juicy Couture, Calypso and Old Navy.
I’m looking for some jewelry to dress up my basic look. What would you recommend that’s under $50 per piece?
- Rose
Rebecca responds
Metallics continue to reign supreme this season. Try uniquely designed chain-link and layered necklaces, or antique-style earrings. Big colorful cocktail rings are a must-have this summer too. They bring instant style and flair to any look and for any occasion. There are a bunch of fantastic retail spots where you can get this season’s hottest accessories for less, either in-store or online: H&M, Forever 21, Express, Banana Republic, and even J. Crew.
Is it appropriate to wear a black dress to a wedding? I’ve always heard no, but it seems like at every wedding I go to people are wearing black.
- Gina
Rebecca responds
I agree that a lot of people wear black to weddings these days, but I think a celebratory event calls for color. Plus, it’s a great excuse to show off this season’s biggest trend of bold colors! I recently wore a yellow dress to a wedding and received many compliments on how bright and happy it was – a true reflection of the happy occasion.
I have noticed on this site the difference in style between the East and West Coast. What do I bring with me to Vegas next month to West Coast my NY look?
- Kathe
Rebecca responds
I have always found that the ladies out west coast are a little more casual and style their look with more of a fun and carefree feel than us New Yorker’s. To make sure you are ace’s in Vegas, be sure to pack your perfect pair of dark denim jeans, a fun top with a little extra Vegas sparkle, a hot pair of heels and a bright colored clutch (you’ll need a chic spot to store all your poker chips!).
Some of the current “cool” fashions I see on the runway – like metallics or a smoky eye – don’t seem geared towards real people. How can I stay trendy without looking over-done?
- Sharon
Rebecca responds
The key to style is to really make each trend your own. If you don’t think the smoky eye or metallic trend is for you, it probably isn’t. Don’t feel pressured to embrace every cool look from the runway. There are so many trends for summer, from romantic blouses and red lips, to masculine vests and wing-tipped eyeliner. There is truly something for everyone, and you just need to find what suits you best and rock it with confidence!
I am not a trendsetter, and I tend to hang on to last year’s fashions. Are there a few trendy pieces I can integrate into my wardrobe to keep my look fresh?
- Linda
Rebecca responds
Each season there are a few “must-have” pieces that can spruce up any look and bring it up to date. I recommend adding a pop of color with a bright patent leather clutch or oversized handbag. Stay in bloom this season with a romantic floral dress, or embrace the ethnic vibe with an organic bauble or gold cuff.
I adore the new gladiator sandals, but are they appropriate for a night on the town?
- Cheryl
Rebecca responds
Of course, that’s perhaps when they are MOST appropriate. There’s nothing better than looking stylish and sexy in a pair of daring shoes that are also comfortable and easy to walk in. For a more formal occasion, try a metallic or faux python shoe for a little extra glam, and pair them with another one of this summer’s big trends – short shorts.
I’m starting my first “real” job next week, and the dress code is business casual. Can you recommend some stores for professional clothes that are still stylish?
- Christina
Rebecca responds
Some of our favorites are Zara, H&M, Express, Anthropologie, and the GO International Capsule Collections from Target. If you want to splurge on something special, try shopbop.com or Intermixonline.com, where you’ll find a little bit of everything you need.
I need new jeans, but my limit is $100. What are your suggestions for affordable, yet stylish denim?
- Diana
Rebecca responds
Uniqlo makes a great trouser style jean that falls straight from the hip and creates a sleek line for only $60. In the $55-$90 price range you can never go wrong with the classics from Levis, Jordache (now sold at Urban Outfitters!) and The Gap. They offer every style – from curvy to skinny to boot cut and distressed denim at the right price.
I just received my tax refund ($900) and want to invest in one great classic piece, like a coat, a handbag or a suit. What do you recommend?
- LeAnne
Rebecca responds
I recommend a timeless over sized leather handbag in a subtle color like black or dark green. Hunt for an elegant, yet sturdy piece that you can use all year round as your purse, work bag, or carry-on. To keep it classic season after season, go for a simple design without too many embellishments or logos.