Susan Dumashosts biannual vintage clothing shows at her home in Birmingham, Alabama.
After all, theres no hopping online and snagging the same thing later; thats just not howshopping vintageworks.
It does not have to be a name brand for it to be a quality piece.
Credit:Getty Images/Catherine McQueen
You just need to know that it has to go home with you.
Susan Dumas
Be kind to these girls.
They have been around a long time and imperfections can add character.
Credit:Getty Images/Michael Ochs Archives/ Stringer
I will always leave behind a piece that is faded.
There is no way to make a faded piece look better, she says.
Beading that is coming off will only get worsepass.
Worn-out elastic is not easy to correct well.
Ripped chiffon is unfixable.
I don’t mind a tiny moth hole or faint stain if the dress is extraordinary.
Stain fighting is my super power, says Susan Dumas.
One partbaking sodaand two parts vinegar can take out any stain if you let it sit long enough.
You absolutely have to try on vintage pieces to get the sizing right, says the tastemaker.
The arm holes are smaller.
The neck holes are smaller.
I don’t think people ate in the 60s and 70s; they just smoked and had fabulous clothes.
But when it comes to vintage, Dumas says to give the stuff a chance.
Thank you, polyester.
I personally have not been able to find quality pieces in thrift stores the past few years.
But if you are on the hunt, don’t forget to look at the scarves, advises Dumas.
You might find a Liberty or a Vera in the pile.
Dont be alarmed if theres no brand/maker tag.
Also, so many pieces were hand-tailored, especially evening gowns, with no tags at all.
Do Your Homework First
Dont be duped by a vintage reproduction, Dumas warns.
Read about the condition of the piece.
make a run at only buy the pieces with no visible defects.
Don’t look for sizes.
Look for sellers that accept returns.
Don’t get discouraged if your piece does not fit.
