Have you ever ventured into the world of vintage handbags? if you ever did, you will likely know the thrill in it the moment you spot those coveted interlinked Cs dangling from otr sitting on the top shelf, or a monogram canvas sitting lurking somewhere in the shadows.
The idea of shopping for vintage items can be daunting this is why we’ve gotten expertized ideas on exactly how to shop for vintage bags with successful results.
what really counts as vintage today? According to Graham Wetzbarger, Head of Authenticity at TheRealReal, the term is open to interpretation. “This is a debate that will probably never have a consensus” he says. “Vintage used to be considered something that is over 30 years old. In the 20th century, fashion was slower, and the trend cycle was about 30 years from when something fell out of style until it was hip again. So the term vintage was used to differentiate between a contemporary piece and its predecessor. Today we use the term in the same way – but in today’s world, trends seem to cycle every ten to fifteen years.”
Here are some steps on how to shop for vintage handbags
1. Eyes on the price
Do your research beforehand, and it’ll be easy to tell when you’ve hit the vintage jackpot, says Wetzbarger. “Collectors are always on the hunt for limited-edition bags. Because of their small quantity and high collectability, they are rare on the secondary market and usually carry a hefty premium. Louis Vuitton is a great example of this.
not only limited edition bags are highly expensive, vintage classics are an equally great investment- bags that have been made for many years, like Hermes Evelyn, Chanel Flap, this bags go up in price 10% every year.
2. Consider auctions
Do not put in mind any intimidatiing preconceptions, because today’s best handbangs auctions are open to all and they are worth a visit for anyone looking for a high price .
Christie’s holds the monopoly on the most hotly anticipated vintage bag sales, where you may pick up a 1980s Chanel treasure or hold out for the big-ticket Hermes.
3.They can always be restored
Do not fear if a closer inspection of that retro Chanel Flap or Louis Vuitton reveals a cracked corner or folding leather, because there are extremely good skilled restorers who are able to erase decades of wear. The Restory team at Harrods, are well versed in making long loved bags look new and fresh again.
4.Know where to look
For a beginner in vintage bag shopping, knowing where to look should be of paramount importance.
resale sites such at TheRealReal and Vestiaire Collective are the best place to start shopping for vintage designer bags
For the very experienced hands, there are a lot of undoubtedly great vintage bags to be found in the best of today’s vintage shops.
In London, William Vintage, Rellik and One Of A Kind are sure-fire sources of those big-name vintage handbags, while lesser-known stores, markets and even charity shops (just imagine!) can deliver some rare gems for those willing to rummage and confident in authenticating.
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