Shopping for Vintage Fashions at Flea Markets
Tips for Finding Retro Clothes and Accessories at Thrifty Prices
Oct 22, 2008
Everyone loves a bargain, and there are certain advantages to shopping in person at a flea market rather than online. For example, unlike online stores and auction sites, you can actually physically inspect clothes and accessories before you purchase them. Moreover, you can bargain with the vendors to get a better price. However, be prepared before you leave to find those one-of-a-kind items.
Know what merchandise is sold at the flea market you plan to attend. Many flea markets are an eclectic mix of old and new items. Some flea markets are held every Saturday morning in the spring and summer months and the vendors sell everything from antiques to bootleg DVDs to food. You will have more luck at flea markets or swap meets that have vendors that sell antiques or antique-specific outdoor fairs. Be sure to research the flea market you plan to attend before you go. Otherwise, you might find yourself disappointed and wading through tons of junk.
Dress appropriately. Dress in layers, wear comfortable walking shoes, and carry a backpack or a bag for all your vintage finds. If the flea market is outdoors, consider bringing a coat and an umbrella in case it rains.
Bring a magnifying glass, tape measure, and reference guides. A magnifying glass is helpful so you can inspect accessories and jewelry. A tape measure may be useful to measure clothing sizes in case the vendor does not have a dressing room available to try on clothes. Pocket- sized reference books about vintage jewelry may be helpful if you are unsure about the price of some pieces.
Arrive early for a better selection. If you are looking for vintage clothing and accessories, it is best to arrive at a flea market early. Vintage clothing dealers and eBay sellers may be cruising around looking for vintage items that are under-priced to purchase, mark up, and resell. Additionally, unlike vendors who deal with heavy antique furniture, clothes and accessories are light and portable so a vendor may be unwilling to mark down their items at the end of the day because it is easier for them to transport their stock.
Try on clothes and test accessories before purchasing. If the vendor has a dressing room available, try on all vintage clothes to make sure they fit. Otherwise, you may have to use a tape measure and estimate the size. Do not trust the size on the clothing label. Vintage clothes are often smaller than their modern day counterparts. When buying vintage purses, be sure to check zippers, snaps and fasteners to make sure they are in good working order. Inspect the clasps on jewelry to make sure they are secure.
Be polite while bargaining and bring cash. If you find a vintage treasure you really love, politely ask the vendor, “Is this your best price?” Never, ever be rude or put down the vendor’s stock thinking this will get you a better deal. If you are courteous, the vendor will typically mark down the price 10-25%. Also, the more items you purchase from one vendor, the more likely they will give you a better discount. Be sure to carry plenty of cash in small bills. Vendors appreciate exact change.
