A generally accepted industry standard is that items made between 20 and 100 years ago are considered "vintage" if they clearly reflect the styles and trends of the era they represent. These clothing items come with a sense of history attached to them, which is one of the reasons they are valued by vintage enthusiasts.

You don't want to look as if you are wearing a costume so don't dress head-to-toe in vintage. If you wear a vintage dress, pair it with modern shoes and an updated handbag and jewelry. A vintage blouse works well with new jeans and accessories. You want to allude to an era not look as though you are wearing a costume.

A lot of the stock from vintage stores comes from old shops that have closed down, and 'dead stock' were sample garments that were made to sell designs. "They were made small for people who would model them, and then shoppers see them either in the catalogue or face to face.

These clothes were made to last, and many vintage pieces are still in excellent condition today. The rareness of these garments also adds to their value, as they are not easily replicated or mass-produced. So, it is not surprising that vintage clothing is expensive.