Embrace Sustainability and Style with Expert Advice
In celebration of Secondhand September, we spoke to five vintage store owners in Scotland to uncover their top tips on shopping second hand.
From hidden gems to timeless classics, these insider insights will ensure you have a successful and sustainable shopping experience.
Read on to discover the wisdom shared by the owners of Pascal & Co., TORN vintage, Rip It Up Vintage and 5th Season Vintage.
Pascal & Co.: A Haven for Vintage Enthusiasts
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, Pascal & Co. is renowned for sourcing authentic vintage pieces dating back to the early 1900s. Specialising in organic fibres, such as cottons, silks, woollens, and cashmeres from the 1940s-1960s, this highly curated boutique offers a delightful array of clothing, homewares, furniture, and unique treasures. Here are owner Asta’s expert tips:
Be Fussy and Check the Inner Label
Discover the story behind a garment by examining its inner label. Typography and materials can reveal valuable insights. Handmade pieces, in particular, offer a unique charm. At Pascal & Co., they prioritise quality fabrics and textiles, often reviving them before they make it to the shop.
Mix and Match, Have Fun, Be Fabulous
Vintage fashion knows no boundaries. Feel free to mix and match eras, experiment, and create your own rules. Withstanding the test of time, vintage pieces carry a unique allure. Flaunt them confidently and create a sustainable, guilt-free fashion statement. Whether you style a whole outfit around a statement piece or blend it with contemporary items, let your creativity shine.
Size Is Just a Number
Don’t be bound by size labels when shopping for vintage clothing. Try items on and let your personal style guide you. Layering, adjustments by a seamstress, and other personalised touches enable you to create a unique look. Embrace the freedom to shape your vintage finds to perfectly fit your individuality.
Seek Out Expert Advice from Vintage Sellers
Vintage sellers are treasure troves of information. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice on caring for vintage pieces. Pascal & Co. is passionate about the longevity of their items and happily shares care tips with customers. Purchasing from a reputable seller is an investment in quality, as vintage items were often crafted to higher standards.
Pascal & Co., 20 Albert Pl, Edinburgh EH7 5HN
TORN Vintage: Contemporary Vintage for Every Wardrobe
Founded by Vassia, TORN Vintage epitomises contemporary vintage. With a focus on timeless pieces and easy integration into any wardrobe, this online and physical boutique offers a range of clothing, accessories, and jewellery. Vassia shares her top vintage shopping tips:
Material and Condition Are Key
Pay attention to the material and condition of the vintage piece you’re considering. Consider ease of washing and maintenance. If the garment requires specialist cleaning, evaluate whether you’re willing to make the extra effort. Avoid items needing excessive repairs unless you’re prepared to invest the time and resources.
Try Everything On
Vintage sizing varies greatly from modern standards. While shop tags provide guidance, it’s always best to try items on. Everyone has their own unique shape, so embrace the opportunity to discover truly flattering pieces. Remember, sizing is merely a guide.
Develop Your Own Unique Style
Trends come and go, but personal style is timeless. Don’t be swayed by fleeting fashion fads. Wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Through vintage fashion, you can develop a unique style that reflects your personality. Embrace individuality and enjoy the journey of self-expression.
Torn Vintage, 11 West Port, Edinburgh EH1 2JA
Rip It Up Vintage: Reliving the Fashion of the ’60s and ’70s
Situated in Glasgow’s renowned Barra’s Market, Rip It Up Vintage is owned by Kirsty. Emphasising handpicked men’s and women’s clothing from the ’60s and ’70s, this boutique captures the essence of these iconic decades. Kirsty provides her top vintage shopping tips:
Ignore Size Labels, Always Try On
Vintage sizes are not equivalent to modern sizing. Don’t rely solely on size labels; instead, try everything on. If shopping online, compare given measurements with similar clothes that fit you well. Remember, your unique measurements trump standardised labels.
Steam Your Leather and Suede
For leather and suede items, Kirsty recommends a simple yet effective method for removing wrinkles and unpleasant odors. Hang these pieces in the bathroom while you shower. The steam will help freshen and relax the fabric, allowing it to regain its admirable condition.
Care for Value
True vintage clothing holds inherent value. Make a concerted effort to care for your vintage finds, and they will appreciatively grow in worth. Take extra precautions when cleaning delicate materials, such as wool and silk. Repair any damages promptly to maintain the longevity of these cherished pieces.
Rip it up, 6 Kent St, Glasgow G40 2SP
5th Season Vintage: Timeless Treasures for the Modern Wardrobe
Established in 2019 by Lauranne Bourgaux, 5th Season Vintage embodies a commitment to sustainability and a lifelong passion for fashion. Over three years of online sales, pop-up shops, and events, the company experienced organic growth, fostering a loyal customer base. This success paved the way for the opening of their flagship store in February 2023, located at 28 Haddington Place, Edinburgh.
Led by Lauranne and her partner Kieran, the iconic store was conceived not only as a retail space but also as a must-visit destination for tourists. Art murals adorn the store, setting a vibrant atmosphere. Inside, an eclectic collection of hand-picked garments from the ’70s to the ’90s awaits, catering to fashion enthusiasts of all ages and tastes. Each piece is carefully chosen to guarantee it becomes an iconic addition to your wardrobe. Lauranne and Kieran’s share their top tips:
Think it Through and Plan Your Outfits
Before buying a new piece of clothing, plan your outfits in your mind and see how it would work with other items in your wardrobe. Ask yourself if you will wear it enough to justify the purchase or if it will just sit in your cupboard. Lauranne and Kieran love the “Rule of 30”: if you won’t wear it 30 times, then it’s not worth buying.
Check the Composition Label for Quality
When looking for quality pieces, make sure to check the composition label. Let’s take denim as an example: more modern denim tends to have more nylon in it to add stretch, while older, higher-quality vintage denim tends to have a more solid feel and last longer. Also, make sure to inspect all the “heavy wear” areas, such as the crotch, armpits, zips, and pockets.
Experiment with Styling and Test Outfits
If you spot an item that you love, but don’t know how to style it, go back to the shop the next day wearing something you would want to pair it with. Many of their customers do this. Not only is it great to sleep on it and come back, but it’s also a smart way of shopping as you are guaranteed to find out whether you would wear that item or not with your current wardrobe. If the item is gone the next day, then don’t worry. It wasn’t meant for you, and you can start the hunt again with a clear idea of what you are looking for.
