Guide to Looking For Plus Size Vintage Clothing

Looking for vintage clothes that are wearable and relevant to the current trends isn't easy. But looking for wearable, moderately updated, and well-fitted vintage clothes is doubly hard. How many times have you given up a stylish vintage item just because it doesn't fit you? Finding vintage clothes in larger sizes is, more often than not, frustrating.

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This is because vintage clothes are in sizes that don't conform to the modern standard sizing. People before were smaller and clothes are tailored to a dominant body shape of the current decade. For instance, clothes in the 1950's favored hourglass-shaped bodies, while clothes for pear-shaped bodies were apparent in the 1960's. But does this mean finding a plus size vintage clothing is next to impossibility?

There's no denying the fact that it is hard to find a plus size clothing item, but it is not impossible. With sheer patience, persistence, and a little help, you can find a vintage piece that will add oomph to your wardrobe. Here are some tips.

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1.) Be extra inventive and resourceful. Visit other sections to find items that fit your size but which don't compromise style. If you're looking for a day wear, don't limit yourself to the casual dress racks. Look in, perhaps, the lingerie section. You might find something that can double as an outerwear if you wear an under slip or camisole. Men's clothes, given their larger sizes, can also be another option.

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2.) Alter if necessary. You can get the service of a good tailor or, if you have a knack for tailoring, you can do it on your own. Adjust the seams to make bigger rooms. For example, you can turn an otherwise ill-fitted dress into a tunic by adjusting the sides. You can also move the buttons to improve the fit of button up blouses. If the skirt is too small in the waist, change the elastic bands. The thing is, there will always be times you can never get a vintage piece that fits just perfectly, but you can always alter.

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3.) Know not only your size, but your measurements as well. This means your bust, waist, and hips. Getting your measurements is especially helpful if you are shopping online or if it's impossible for you to try on a piece in the vintage store. There are two ways to get your measurement. One, you can measure your body, and two, you can measure a garment that fits perfectly well. Do this by laying the garment on a flat surface.
Then measure from the side under the sleeve to the other side. Double the number and you have your bust measurement. Do the same to the waist area to get your waist measurement. Same applies to your hips. It is also important to measure your shoulders. You can do this by measuring from the top of the sleeve seam to the other end.

4.) Take note that plus sizes before were labeled in half sizes. There are 20 ½, 22 ½, and so on. Therefore, look for clothes with these labels.

5. Wear a good bra and under slip, especially if you are going to try the garment on. This will help you get into the garment more easily and smoothly and allow you to have a better fit. Many don't know or totally disregard this when looking for plus size vintage clothing, but it helps a lot.