How To: Finding the Perfect Vintage Tee

There is no question that vintage garments have become hugely popular within the past few years. Fast fashion brands have cashed in on the vintage look and even have made vintage replica tees. We all know that there is no shortage of “vintage” out there, but what separates a smelly old t-shirt from a vintage grail and how can one find the perfect vintage tee without spending hundreds?

What is “vintage” first of all? Well, the context in which we use the word “vintage” these days may not fit the accepted definition. A garment made at least 20 years ago is typically considered vintage, and anything newer could be considered retro or simply on-trend. But for the purpose of this article, I will just consider “vintage” and more specifically a vintage t-shirt, any second-hand t-shirt that has significant age to it made from materials and cut in a style conducive of the 00s decade or older.

So how can you tell if a t-shirt is vintage or not? Generally, the texture/feel of the material is a good indicator of a vintage tee. A lot of t-shirts from the 80s, 90s or 00s are made with a heavier, coarse cotton; a more durable material that has stood the test of time. Two other general indicators are the tag; if the tag’s logo is outdated, it is a good sign! Finally, less obvious is the cuff stitching; older t-shirts generally have a single stitch at the cuff, while newer t-shirts have a double stitch. There are so many other things to consider when finding a vintage t-shirt, but hopefully those general things can find you a grail!

You never have to look to far to find vintage clothing these days. A lot of my favourite vintage tees have simply come from thrift stores, I have even found some gems on Facebook Marketplace. But if you have no luck at the thrift store, where can you go? There are so many great vintage curators, whether it be through Depop, Instagram or vintage stores in your community. They do the hard work for you and always have some dope garms!! With trends these days taking cues from the 80s, 90s and 00s, there is no easier way to find true vintage from someone who has lived through all those decades, take a look in mom/dad’s closet and I bet you could find some gems.

Models: Ashley @ashleyxngo (left) and Helena @zvtcha (right)

Not only do vintage t-shirts look incredibly cool, I think vintage t-shirts are so popular because they pay homage to time and subcultures that have shaped our society today. Many of the most popular vintage tees come from subcultures like the automotive/racing world such as Harley-Davidson, Mercedes-Benz, and Ferrari. Second, vintage sportswear has always been popular, athletes like Michael Jordan and Allen Iverson have influenced streetwear immensely. Finally, homage to legendary rock bands, singers, rappers, etc. are arguably the biggest and most sought-after vintage t-shirts there are. Designs and looks associated with bands and musicians such as Pink Floyd, Metallica, Tupac, and Aaliyah are transcendent through the decades and have influenced fashion to this day.

Models: Ashley @ashleyxngo (left) and Helena @zvtcha (right)