1. Playing with style and Accessories
There are as many ways to wear vintage as there are vintage wearers, so let yourself go and have fun! You can wear vintage the high fashion haute couture way, or personalize with an avant-garde twist -- not worrying so much about size, as a larger dress on a smaller frame can be quite adorable and unique.... try wearing vintage heels with thin white or colored ankle socks, or work boots and grandma/nun shoes with a vintage dress. The important thing is to have fun creating your own look!
2. Remember that vintage sizes vary from those of today and you need to make sure about fit by asking questions and self-measuring before you bid. Lovers of true vintage realize (even in items described as in perfect condition) the materials in these treasured things from the past may be time stressed and need special care and may not last as long as newly produced retro styled items.... and this is one more reason why vintage pieces are so very loved!! They have somehow made it through so many years to be here in decent condition for our enjoyment that we treasure and care for them all the more!
3. NOT INCLUDED IN LISTINGS: Belts crinolines underclothing flower pins and jewelry are not included in my auctions unless the item description says so. I leave it to my customers to find the perfect belt, cord, sash, cummerbund or ribbon for each dress or ensemble as they know what looks best in their mind's eye. I use prop belts crinolines and jewelry in my photos, and these items are most often not included unless the item description says so.
4. If you want to purchase a crinoline remember to buy one for the fifties skirts, not a sq. dance crinoline, as they are too short and too fluffy. A fifties design will give you lower fullness (first tier is flat to tummy and hips) and it will be longer.
5. Vintage outfits can look most glamorous with shoes of a matching color. White, dyeable shoes of all sizes and styles can be found easily on the net. For the true vintage look mix and match your favorite vintage finds.
6. Those who love wearing vintage clothing will find that having a favorite seamstress or tailor at hand for alterations helps a great deal. Remember to buy a bit larger as you can always take a tuck in a garment, much more easily than letting it out.
7. Cummerbunds can add a great 50s look to many dresses and ensembles. They are available in many sizes and colors and may be purchased on line or in the physical world from formal wear providers who sell or rent tuxedoes.
8. Sashes can be bought at most accessory stores, or very easily constucted by going to your local fabric store for patterns and fabric,and wide ribbon in most colors can be bought to make a quicky gorgeous sash.
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