For the past three years, Vintage Fair Victoria has been uniting one-of-a-kind clothes with one-of-a-kind customers. On November 12, over 30 vendors will roll their wares into the Fairfield United Church for the fifth instalment of the event.
“Most people that are in this business have done it because they’re collectors, and their collection got out of control,” says Lynn Gratham of Empress Jade Vintage, a vendor at the fair since its inception. “You have to have a passion for it.”
The fair’s organizer, Sarah Rempel, definitely has a passion for vintage. Vintage Fair is more than just a glorified swap meet: it’s a chance to get educated about vintage clothing.
On the morning of the event, Heritage Productions will be conducting a roaming fashion show, wearing clothes from the 1880s to 1920s and explaining the history behind each article and accessory.
In the afternoon, local vintage merchant Sam Medley has a fashion show of her own planned. Last time, Medley organized a pillow fight in vintage lingerie.
“Hopefully for this one we’re going to have a lot more entertainment. And we have another surprise coming, but I can’t say what. It’s just naughty,” says Medley.
So what is vintage, exactly? “Vintage is any item that’s 20 years old, up to 100 years old. Some people consider something that’s 75 years old an antique; I prefer the 100-year mark for that, that’s just how I’ve always seen an antique,” says Medley.
While vintage clothes are unique, it’s an unfortunate fact that the average person was smaller 50 years ago.
“There’s always a much larger selection in the tiny little sizes, so if you’re a medium-to-large-sized gal, or you’re really tall, it’s a lot harder,” says Gratham. “I find that when I find the larger pieces, especially the really nice ones, they sell fast and they sell for top dollar.”
Men’s clothes are also less common at vintage retailers, but there are a few vendors who specialize in fashion for gentlemen. “If you come earlier in the day, the items aren’t as picked over,” says Rempel.
And wearing vintage isn’t just about being fashion conscious. Rempel says that second-hand clothing is also “the oldest green business going.”
Holiday Vintage Fair
10am-4pm, Saturday November 12
Fairfield United Church, $3
vintagefairvictoria.com
I am so excited about the fact that the average person was smaller 50 years ago. I’m a super tiny girl and vintage wear fits me perfectly, plus the tailoring of those times is extremely well done. For once in my life someone has made clothing in MY size, muahahaha! And shoes too! Whee!