Vintage Condition & Care Guide
All items have been previously worn unless otherwise noted. I do my best to list signs of wear and distress, but please expect slight imperfections. This guide explains the condition wording used in listings. Specific condition notes and photos matter more than the grade alone.
Condition grades
- Like new: Previously owned, with no noticeable wear or flaws found on inspection. This does not mean unworn or new with tags unless stated.
- Gently worn: Light signs of use, such as minor surface wear, light pilling, or gentle fading. Any noticeable flaws are described separately.
- Well worn: Noticeable wear or flaws, such as visible marks, thinning, small holes, or repairs. Read the individual notes for their location, extent, and effect on wear.
- Repair needed: Significant damage or a functional issue requiring attention before regular wear. The listing identifies the issue; do not assume the piece is ready to wear.
How to read flaw notes
Condition notes describe what the issue is, where it is, its approximate size or extent, and whether it affects appearance, fit, or function. A grade or the phrase “slight imperfections” is not a substitute for describing a known flaw.
- Stains and marks: Color, location, approximate size, and visibility. A mark is not described as removable unless removal has been confirmed.
- Holes, tears, and thinning: Number, location, approximate size, and whether the damage is open or repaired. Loose seams and faulty fastenings are noted separately.
- Odor: Any noticeable odor is described plainly, including its character and strength where identifiable. No promise is made that an odor will wash out.
- Fading and surface wear: Note whether fading is even or patchy, plus relevant pilling, abrasion, or print wear. Intentional distressing is identified only when known.
- Repairs: Describe visible mending, patches, replacement parts, or restitching, including location and visibility. A repair does not make an item “like new.”
- Alterations: Note known or visible changes to hems, seams, waistbands, or other details. Original construction and reversibility are not assumed.
Measurements & fit
Vintage tag sizes can differ from modern sizing. Compare the listed measurements with a similar garment you own. Measurements should identify the units and method: flat widths are measured across the garment, while waist, chest, or hip circumferences are stated as around-the-body measurements. Relevant details include length, rise, inseam, sleeve length, stretch, and any alteration affecting fit. Measurements are approximate.
Care for vintage pieces
Follow an intact care label when suitable for the garment’s current condition. When the label is missing, the fabric is uncertain, or a piece is fragile, embellished, lined, or repaired, ask a cleaner experienced with vintage clothing before washing. Avoid assuming that every vintage piece can be machine washed, soaked, steamed, or tumble dried. Test any suitable cleaning method in an inconspicuous area first; stop if color transfers or the fabric changes. Store clean, fully dry pieces away from direct sunlight, and support heavy knits folded rather than hanging.
Need more detail before buying? Ask for additional measurements, condition information, or close-up photos.