We can all end up accumulating a large vintage collection of clothes. Iconic shoes, hats or skirt styles add a quirkiness to our individual styles.
Even our own wardrobe choices become vintage eventually, if we hold on to them. So as any vintage lover knows, sometimes our collection can grow a tad too big. It can be tricky to figure out how to manage it all.
So if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed with your vintage finds, don’t worry – there are simple steps you can take to get your clothes space in order.
Assess your Vintage Collection
Before making any rash decisions, it’s important to take a close look at what you’ve got. This process will help you decide what’s worth keeping, and storing, and what’s to be given away.
- Inspect each item for quality and condition.
- Identify any clothes that hold some sentimental or emotional value.
- Set aside rare or high-value pieces that may be worth something.
- Consider the practicality and wearability of each item.
Determine What to Keep
When deciding what to keep, focus on clothes and accessories that truly fit your style and can be easily integrated into your current wardrobe. Certainly, hold on to clothes which are still in good condition – and still suit you. Also, anything that no longer resonates with you can be set aside for the thrift or charity store.
Sell or Donate Unused Pieces
Once you’ve sorted through your vintage collection, it’s time to think about what to do with the items that you no longer want. You can decide to sell them, give them away, or send in bags to a charity shop. If you do choose to send them to a charity shop, and this is a very ethical way to clear your wardrobe, do clean them first.
Sell Through Vintage Shops or Online Platforms
For items that have monetary value, consider selling them through vintage shops or online platforms. Websites like Etsy, eBay, or specialized vintage clothing platforms like Vinted can connect you with buyers who truly appreciate the uniqueness of your collection. This last option allows you to recoup some of the investment you made while finding a new home for your vintage treasures.
Donate to Charity or Local Organizations
If selling your vintage collection isn’t your priority or the items have more sentimental than monetary value, donating is a wonderful option. Charity shops, local shelters often welcome unique clothing or accessories. It’s an easy way to give back while knowing the items will continue to be appreciated by others.
Repurpose or Upcycle
If you’re feeling creative, and are a dab hand at sewing, why not repurpose or upcycle your vintage pieces? This can breathe new life into items that might otherwise lie about unused. Whether turning them into something entirely new or updating them to add to a modern wardrobe, this approach allows you to keep the charm of vintage in your daily wear.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Turn on old shirt into pillow covers.
- Take off the buttons and swap them for buttons on modern clothing.
- Create decorative wall art with a nice, framed piece of textile.
- Turn vintage hats that you’ll never wear again, into a piece of wall decor.
- Repurpose old handbags into socks or tights container and hang on a hook.
Store the Essentials
Proper storage is key to preserving the quality of your vintage clothing. Ensuring they are stored correctly in a dry mildew free space will help them last longer and stay in better condition.
Use Garment Bags and Tissue Paper
For delicate clothing items, invest in high-quality garment bags and acid-free tissue paper. These materials help protect fabrics from the dust and moisture.Light exposure can cause fade a piece of clothing, so its best to keep out of direct light.
Opt for Climate-Controlled Storage
Stable temperatures and humidity levels will prevent mold, mildew, and other damage caused by fluctuations in the environment. So if you have a big collection that you’ve decided to hold on to for selling, then you might wish to consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit. These will keep your items safe without taking up space at home.
Organize with Proper Storage Boxes
Get some sturdy, breathable storage boxes for non-hanging items such as accessories, scarves, or shoes. Try and avoid plastic containers as these can trap moisture. Also opt for acid-free cardboard or fabric-covered boxes instead.
Care for Delicate Items
Some vintage pieces, like lace garments or beaded dresses, require special attention. Handle these items gently and maybe consider a professional cleaning service. For long-term preservation, make sure these pieces are stored flat in breathable containers to avoid creasing or damage. Additionally, consider using padded hangers to maintain their shape.
Rotate Clothing items Regularly
To prevent wear and tear from long-term storage, rotate your collection periodically. This allows you to enjoy different pieces and ensures they all get some attention rather than being left unused for long periods.
Your vintage collection doesn’t have to stay hidden away. By rotating and displaying select pieces, you can keep your collection fresh while adding some aesthetic appeal to your bedroom or changing room.
Showcase Key Pieces as Home Decor
Buy a mannequin and regularly display a favorite dress on it. Some women love to do this. It’s like having a style buddy in the room, who wears beautiful scarves and accessories and even changes for the appropriate season. It’s just another clever way of keeping clothes you don’t often personally wear, alive and still part of your life.
Give Your Vintage Collection Room to Shine
Having a vintage collection is something to celebrate. Instead of shoving them away under beds or in the attic, thoughtfully manage and curate your collection. You can continue to let it bring beauty into your life, while keeping it practical and meaningful for the future.
That’s all ! © Glamourdaze