Perfecting Your Vintage Collection
By Nichole A. Cavallaro | Photography by Susan Brown & Nichole A. Cavallaro
Whether it’s beach-combing for polished glass or shells, discovering a collectible online or finding a graphic T-shirt from a thrift store, I love the thrill of curating a collection. It feeds my hobby of collecting vintage clothing, jewelry and kitchenware.
It has a pleasant energy to me, a combination of curiosity and nostalgia. I wasn’t born in the decades of what is now considered “vintage,” but my parents were. It’s a fond memory of my mom’s style, combined with my curiosity of something before my time.
As a child, I’d play dress up with my best friend. Her attic was filled with trunks and racks of vintage finds her mom had collected. I continued my own search for vintage and antique items. The hobby continued well into college and graduate school, and even through to today.
When I’m looking for clothing or accessories, here are some things I consider:
1. Do some research.
A simple search on vintage styles gives me an idea of the look I want to achieve. For instance, what kind of vintage am I fan of? ’50s or ’70s? If I can’t locate something specific, I find something easily comparable.
2. Quality and Character.
When I’m debating whether or not to purchase a find, I weigh the amount of investment I’m willing to put into it.
Whether it’s a true piece from the decade — not a reproduction — is a determining factor for me. Even if it’s a slightly worn T-shirt or Levi’s from the ’70s with some holes, those imperfections can add an authentic feel, unless the holes are under the arms or enormous. That’s a bit much. The good news is vintage is common nowadays, so it’s pretty easy to score something.
3. The stones.
No, not the awesome rock group. Materials frequently used in vintage jewelry include glass, shell, wood, lucite, celluloid, enamel, bakelite, imitation pearls and stones, tiger’s eye and opals.
4. Mix and Match.
I always mix inexpensive with expensive. I’m all about balance! I certainly wouldn’t wear an outfit comprised of all vintage finds. But, at the very least, one single vintage accessory can elevate the most basic look.
A graphic T-shirt under a cardigan is my favorite combo, and I might even layer on vintage necklaces.
When I want to wear something different, it’s a pleated, velvet midiskirt paired with a cotton gray top. The skirt reminds me of a crushed velvet couch from the ’70s a college roommate of mine had, thanks to her parents. The pastel pink baubles in the statement necklace make me think of pastel appliances popular in the ’50s — although I think I’d run for the hills if my washer and dryer were pink.
For the more casual, weekend feel, I’m a sucker for graphic T-shirts and high-waisted denim — aka mom-jeans — or even just regular skinny or boyfriend-fit jeans, rolled at the ankles.
I believe how we express ourselves with what we wear, how we live and what we own can really define our personality and interests. Whatever you collect and incorporate into your style, it should be something that brings you happiness and makes you proud! SWM
Nichole A. Cavallaro is a Syracuse-based fashion blogger. Read more of her work at eneverythingnice.blogspot.com.
