Photo: Courtesy of our friend Dani

You love a good search. If it’s one of a kind, you’ve gotta have it. When people ask, “where did you get that?”, you smirk because you know it’s that keen eye of yours that keeps others fascinated. And it’s true: some people have the eye for these wondrous goods, and others just don’t. But hey, what are we here for? To make your fashion vision 20/20. Read up on some tips to make sure you score the most perfect vintage piece next time you hit the flea markets. Vintage muses unite!

1. Being overwhelmed is never a good feeling. You know when you go to the mall and it feels like the walls are closing in around you, and you end up leaving with nothing but an empty space in your heart where your new favorite accessory should have been? Don’t let this happen to you at a thrift store! Think of specific items you’re in the market for. A clear head means a full shopping bag. Focus is the key.

2. Vintage is as vintage sounds. And flea, well, you get the point. You’re finding second hand gems here, baby! Double check the things you’ve got your paws on. Nobody wants to be damaged goods—we mean, mean nobody wants to have damaged goods. Inspect, inspect, inspect.

3. Kiss your privacy out the window. There’s no fitting rooms here, so today is no day for wearing layer upon layer. Wear something that you can easily throw other clothes on top of. The open air is now your fitting room, along with all the other fashion fiends.

4. As if this comes as a surprise… sizes were different back in the day! DON’T check the label for your size: eyeball it, try it on, hold it up to you like when grandma gives you a sweater and you want to please her. DO check the label for a union card. What’s this you say? Union tags are proof that your item is more than 20 years old; clothing unions only existed before the 1980s (now, these could have been ripped out but it never hurts to to be sure).

5. Wu-Tang was right when it comes to vintage boutiques: Cash rules everything around you here. It’s more than likely that your little plastic friend won’t be accepted. Bring the bills, it’s the most handy for these situations. Especially when bargaining will be your new best friend. Don’t be afraid to speak up or raise that voice of yours. Everybody likes a deal.