How can you tell if vintage clothes are real?

You can tell if vintage clothes are real in a few ways. First, look inside pieces for labels. Union tags are usually a sign that a piece is vintage, and by researching the maker of your apparel and the evolution of their brand labeling, you can often estimate how old a particular garment is. Check the fasteners and fabrics for pieces you believe were produced in the early 20th century or before. Generally, older vintage clothing will have metal zippers and shell or metal buttons rather than plastic. However, keep in mind that any apparel that is more than 20 years old can be considered vintage. Since plastic became a commonly used material by the 1950s and ’60s, plastic buttons and other more modern features may not necessarily mean a piece isn't vintage. Because it can be difficult to date clothing on your own, consider having a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert assist you. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of vintage apparel.