In efforts to be "modern," the fashion world constantly throws the word "vintage" around. Some of the hottest trends of today are not new at all, but rather new versions of old styles. You can go into many stores around Beaumont and beyond, particularly the resale shops and a salesperson will boast of the "vintage" dress on the rack that you just have to have. Is it vintage or just plain old?

What qualifies a piece to be vintage?

What do I need to look for to recognize true vintage from the vintage re-do?

Generally speaking, clothing or housewares produced before 1920 are considered vintage. An article of clothing dubbed with this popular honor has had lasting value over the course of time. You may recognize the zoot suit as an icon piece from the 1940s, but it is not seen as a true vintage item due to it's trendiness and short lived popularity. If you shop a vintage retailer, you'll find clothing from 1920s-1970s to be acceptable as such.

While strolling through your fave vintage shop, you may be thrown for a loop if someone mentions a piece as "retro." What in the world does that mean? The term 'retro' is used interchangeably with vintage, but more often is used in reference to something from 1960s-1970s. Pushing the envelope would be to include something from the 1980s. Anything thereafter can just be sent to the thrift store.

Our favorite true vintage store is Boho Soul on Pearl Street in Downtown Beaumont. They have clothing, jewelry, bags, furniture and home accessories. Another great store that has vintage pieces (but not considered a vintage store as a whole) is IZ Funky Resale on Calder in Old Town.

Well, there you have it. Vintage does not just mean old. To be vintage, a piece certainly has to have some age behind it, but more importantly it has to have a lasting presence in the era for which it is known. Happy shopping!

Beauty & Fashion Archive