Looking Good; Staying Green; Saving Green – Thrift & Vintage Stores
Need a change from what’s in your closet without depleting your bank account? Shopping second-hand is one savvy way to be a fashionista on a budget. You may know the big names like: Goodwill, Savers, and Saint Vincent De Paul, but there are some other Twin Cities gems that specialize in used and vintage finds.
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Everyday People is the college and twenty-something’s destination for one-of-a-kind fashion. With locations in Dinkytown by the University of Minnesota and in the Uptown area of South Minneapolis this store is sure to please. Rewind Vintage in Northeast Minneapolis is a funky hotspot with a mix of newer and vintage clothes and accessories. Via’s Vintage in Uptown Minneapolis is a pretty-in-pink destination for groovy gals and guys with a trained staff who can help with the common size questions. Accessories alone are a reason alone for heading here. Buffalo Exchange with locations in Minneapolis and across the country is a sustainable thrift and consignment store that promotes clothing recycling. B-Squad Vintage is a mix of antique furniture, vinyl, and vintage clothes of all sizes and shapes. Filled with unique and colorful items, you are bound to find something inspiring.
Tips when shopping vintage:
-Don’t give up; you may be overwhelmed by the racks of clothes and the rummage store feel, but that’s just the charm of thrift stores.
-Don’t depend on the sizes. Over the decades sizes have changed dramatically, especially women’s sizes, so it’s important to try everything on.
-Bring a friend. It’s more fun and your friend may spot something you overlooked.
-Check the fabric and care instructions. Remember that fabric does deteriorate, so make sure the item is sturdy and stitched well. Also, if it says Dry Clean Only, or Hand-Wash Only it means it. Don’t ruin your perfect 1950’s era little black dress by popping it in the washing machine and dryer.
-If you find something you love; buy it. It won’t be there next time and you won’t be able to find a duplicate.
-Pair vintage with modern, like a vintage dress with modern shoes, or a vintage belt with your favorite jeans. You don’t want to go overboard and look like you forgot what decade you woke up in.
Facts from Via’s Vintage expert Kellie Cameron:
-Vintage is defined as any clothing 25 years or older.
-The best system for sizing is actual waist measurement. Sizes listed in the label are from an old system of sizing, which is completely different from our current system.
-Every season is a good season for vintage. Unlike thrift stores which see an influx when people clean out there closet, vintage maintains consistency throughout the year.
-Hand-washing is the best way to keep clothes clean and in great condition. Cameron recommends using Tide and OxyClean, and advises against dry cleaning unless the item is very fragile.
Wedding Day Styling:
Heirloom wedding rings and passed-down dresses are not only meaningful, but also environmentally friendly. Silk used in wedding dresses often employs child labor, so research before you buy and purchase only free-trade or vintage gowns. After the wedding, pass down your dress, or think about donating it. One cool place to shop is Brides of France.
All dresses are like-new or never worn consignment. This family-owned shop has vintage handbags, furs, and jewelry. “We have a large collection of pieces from the 1920’s through the 1940’s, and brides love to wear them for the wedding, every anniversary, and then pass them down as family heirlooms!” said Natalie Cushing of Brides of France.
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