Are you a fan of vintage clothing? Do you love the unique styles and timeless charm that vintage pieces bring to your wardrobe? If so, you're not alone. Vintage clothing has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people embracing the nostalgia and individuality that comes with wearing vintage garments.
However, one challenge that vintage clothing enthusiasts often face is finding the right size. Unlike modern clothing, vintage sizes can be quite different, making it difficult to determine which size will fit you best. But fear not! In this ultimate vintage clothing size guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to find the perfect fit.
Why are vintage clothing sizes different?
Before we dive into the specifics, it's important to understand why vintage clothing sizes can be so different from modern sizes. The main reason is that sizing standards have changed over the years. What was considered a size 8 in the 1950s may not be the same as a size 8 today. Additionally, many vintage garments were handmade or tailored, resulting in variations in sizing.
How to measure yourself for vintage clothing
When shopping for vintage clothing, it's crucial to have accurate measurements of your body. This will help you determine which size will fit you best. Here are the key measurements you should take:
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust.
- Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your waist.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
- Inseam: Measure from the crotch to the bottom of your ankle.
Once you have these measurements, you can compare them to the size charts provided by vintage sellers or use them as a reference when trying on garments in person.
Understanding vintage size charts
When shopping for vintage clothing online or in-store, you may come across size charts specific to each garment. These size charts can vary, so it's essential to understand how they work. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Pay attention to the measurements: Vintage size charts often provide actual garment measurements rather than body measurements. Compare these measurements to your own to determine if the garment will fit.
- Look for size equivalents: Some vintage sellers provide size equivalents to help you understand how the vintage size translates to modern sizing. This can be helpful when shopping across different eras.
- Consider alterations: If you find a vintage piece that you love but it's not the perfect fit, remember that many vintage garments can be altered. A skilled tailor can make adjustments to ensure the garment fits you perfectly.
Try before you buy
When it comes to vintage clothing, trying before you buy is often the best approach. Vintage sizes can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to try on the garment to see how it fits your unique body shape. If you're shopping online, look for sellers with flexible return policies, so you can easily return items that don't fit.
With this ultimate vintage clothing size guide, you'll be well-equipped to find the perfect fit for all your vintage fashion finds. Remember, vintage clothing is all about embracing individuality and expressing your personal style, so don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with your vintage wardrobe!