Lo's Vintage Guide

Lo’s Guide to Vintage Shopping in Paris

There are many benefits to vintage shopping. You get to find unique pieces that no else is wearing, it’s a great way to collect “souvenirs” from different cities, find higher quality pieces (think leather and denim), and score designer pieces for a much lower price than if you were to buy them new.

It's worth mentioning that there is a big difference between vintage and thrift shopping. Thrift shops carry general used or second-hand clothing and are good for finding basic pieces at a lower price (think high-waisted shorts or flannel button downs). In Paris these kinds of shops are called Friperies. Vintage refers to special items of clothing that have stood the test of time (both structurally and stylistically) and are unique or designer pieces. There are plenty of thrift shops and vintage shops in Paris, making the city one of the best places for one-of-a-kind finds.

Here are some of my tips for navigating the vintage clothing scene in Paris.

Set a budget. If you’re looking for something specific like a silk scarf or a trench coat, come up with a maximum amount you’re willing to spend on it and stick to it. I know this is easier said than done, but remember that there are lots of vintage and thrift shops in Paris, so there are always other places to hunt. If you do find an item that is perfect but a bit too pricey, you can always ask for a price reduction, but don’t hold your breath.

Don’t get caught up on size. Clothing sizes vary a lot over brands, years, and countries, so it’s unrealistic to think that you will always wear the same size in vintage clothing. Don’t be discouraged if your normal size doesn’t fit you, and remember that it's always easier to have things taken in or made smaller than it is to let them out.

Carefully look over each item before buying it. Nothing is worse than buying a beautiful silk blouse and then realizing once you’re home that there is a huge stain on it that you can’t get out. Here are some things to look for:

• Any stains, grease marks, underarm discoloration, etc.

• Rips in the seams or lining

• Loose buttons

• Broken zippers or clasps

• “Shedding” for fur or wool pieces

• If it is complete- for example: you might be able to get a lower price if a jacket is missing a belt, etc

• Look at the stitches on the label of designers pieces. Real designer pieces will have perfectly even stitches on the labels.

Try it on. As I mentioned before, sizes in vintage clothing are not reliable so you should always see how a piece looks on you before buying it. If it doesn’t look like there are any cabines (changing rooms) in the shop, ask a staff member. Often times there are hidden rooms or stalls, makeshift curtains, etc, where you can try things on.

Don’t buy pieces just because they’re designer. Don’t buy something that doesn’t fit or look good on you just because it has a fancy label. Chances are if you don’t love it, you won’t wear it and you will regret spending the money.

Ask about care instructions. Delicate pieces like suede, leather, fur, silk, or beaded items will have to be washed and cared for differently than more resilient fabrics like cotton or polyester, especially if they’re old.

Don’t expect to save money. Of course you there are stores where you will find bargains (friperies, kilo shops), and buying certain pieces vintage will be less expensive than buying it new (like a Burberry trench), but if you’re looking for basics, you won’t always save money buying from vintage shops. What you will get with real vintage pieces is higher quality (in most cases) or unique or rare items that other people won’t have. If you are looking to find things for less, check out some of the flea markets in Paris instead. Markets like the one in Belleville or Le Marché aux puces de Clignancourt will have cheaper pieces or vendors who are more willing to negotiate a price.

Don’t wear all vintage all the time. Sure, you may be one of those people graced with a killer sense of style and self-confidence that can pull off wearing a 70s maxi skirt with a beaded cardigan from the 1950s topped off with vintage ankle boots, but you’re probably not. It’s better to mix and match vintage finds with your every day wardrobe to achieve a cool, eclectic look rather than looking like you’ve raided your gran’s wardrobe or you’re an extra in a Macklemore video.

If you have any tips for vintage shopping, or have suggestions of your favorite places to shop in Paris, email us at violet7mag@gmail.com or send us a tweet to @violet7mag

Happy shopping!

#vintage #fashion #lo