When most women think of shopping, immediately their favorite department store or retail outlet pops into their mind. But why should you be limited by these self imposed fashion constrictions? Vintage wear opens up a whole new fashion arena that you may have never even considered. Besides snagging some of the best crafted and unique eye catching designs, the savvy shopper may find that vintage wear is kind to the purse also. Often, you can get twice the bang for the buck.

Besides saving you cash, considering adding some vintage wear to your wardrobe will also enable you to do your part in protecting the environment. Whenever you are recycling and renewing by purchasing vintage clothing, that means there is less waste piling up in a landfill somewhere. It is also a well known fact that many vintage clothes are infinitely better constructed than the stuff that passes for fashion today. Welcome to the world where you can be socially conscious as well as stylishly chic.

In case you decide to take the plunge and add some vintage wear to your closet, knowing where to find your vintage bargains is essential. When you are shopping for vintage wear, you will probably find what you are looking for in one of three types of stores – boutiques specializing in vintage wear, thrift shops, and consignment stores.

Vintage wear boutiques will often focus on a particular era and from all appearances look just like a regular store – only with older clothes. You will almost always find the good quality, but higher priced vintage items in these boutiques.

Thrift shops are normally donation based entities that carry everything from books to housewares to clothing; and for this reason, it is a little more difficult to find what you may be looking, but great vintage bargains can still be had.

Consignment stores are more selective than thrift shops and screen their merchandise. They will not accept unclean items or those in poor condition. Also, they operate on a profit sharing system, so the original owner gets a portion of the proceeds.

Other surprising places that you may also occasionally find vintage clothing is at flea markets, yard sales, and estate sales. The trick is to always be on the lookout – you never know what you will find.

Depending on where you shop for vintage clothing, you may pay anywhere from a few cents to a few hundred dollars. Regardless of your shopping locale, the price you pay is almost always a bargain. And never underestimate the power of negotiation – prices are never set in stone. You will find that this adage holds true even at your local fashion retailer. It never hurts to ask.

Once you find an item of interest, be sure to inspect it to make sure that it is not excessively damaged or of poor quality. Feel the fabric and try the item on if possible. Coarse or stiff fabric usually indicates that the item is not good quality. Check for holes, stains, and fraying of the seams. A lot of vintage wear is handmade and of exceptional quality, so make sure the item has been well cared for.

Vintage wear opens up a whole new world for the savvy bargain shopper who is fashion conscious. Make sure you keep your eyes open and inspect prospective vintage buys carefully, and you will ensure that you get a great piece of clothing that adds flair and style to your wardrobe.