How To Shop for Genuine Vintage Bags

Vintage bags are gorgeous pieces that are considered by many women to be more like a work of art than a carry bag! They are symbols of a bygone era when quality materials and workmanship was used, and handbags were designed to last more than a season. However, there are many online and physical stores trying to sell imitation vintage or designer bags in order to rip customers off, so a little research goes a long way.

Firstly, what makes a bag ‘vintage’? The term vintage generally refers to clothing and accessories that were made at least 20 years ago. Vintage bags, clothes and other accessories are often made from high quality fabrics with a lot of attention to detail and design, hence why they have stood the test of time and can still be worn today. In years gone by, garments were produced on a smaller scale, took longer to make, and cost more, so many people actively seek out vintage bags and clothes because of the quality and durability these pieces are famous for. Vintage pieces also allow a person to wear something truly unique and unlikely to be seen on anyone else.

So, why do many people love collecting vintage bags? Not only do they look great and make fabulous fashion statements, they are also seen by many people as an investment. Bags by designers like Hermes, Louis Vuitton and Chanel often become highly valued, rare collectors pieces that can then be sold for even more than the original price.

If you’ve decided to start your own collection of vintage bags, it is essential to do some research to make sure you’re buying the real deal. While you should always keep a lookout for random vintage finds, it’s a good idea to have some idea of what you’re looking for and know the details found on that particular piece. For example, knowing what the lining should look like; what kind of material and clasps are used; logo details and how long the serial number should be. If you like, you can use the services of a professional who can value the item for you and leave no doubt in your mind that you’re buying a genuine vintage bag. 

Many online boutiques and sites like eBay sell a lot of vintage bags, and the price of some of these items seems too good to be true. Here’s a warning: it probably is too good to be true. A person selling a genuine, brand-name vintage bag will be asking for a fair price for their valuable piece, so steer clear of super cheap pieces.

If you’ve found a great vintage bag online, it’s a good idea to shop around on other sites and check the prices for the same item (if possible). If the bag you’ve found is significantly cheaper – i.e. hundreds or even thousands of dollars cheaper – than the ones you’re comparing it to, it’s likely to be a fake. 

Once you’ve got your fabulous new vintage bag, you should take the time to care for it and store it properly. Keep your bags away from heat, moisture, sun and dust, as the shape of the bag can change, the fabric can be damaged and the colour can fade. It is best to store them in a wardrobe or cupboard, standing up, filled with some old (clean) t-shirts or rags to keep the bag’s shape.

Vintage bags can be great investment pieces, because you’re able to use something that’s stylish and useful while also having the opportunity to make a bit of extra cash. Take the time to research vintage bags, don’t rush into any sale, and be wary of very cheap vintage bags. Follow these simple steps and you’ll soon have your very own fabulous collection of quality bags!

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