How to Shop for Vintage Clothes and Accessories, From Etsy to Online Thrifting

You could spend your entire life chasing down the pair of vintage Levi’s that fit you perfectly, Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants-style. In the meantime, you have Etsy, which is a treasure trove of vintage clothing, specifically Levi’s jeans. This particular seller, WillowvintageGB, is based in the United Kingdom where vintage Levi’s are more plentiful, so you’re guaranteed to find a pair that works for you. You can also ask the seller to resize a pair if you fall in love but the size isn’t quite right. ($103.01, WillowvintageGB via Etsy)

Harley Davidson clothing has been having a moment, and with a major focus on sporty jerseys and rugby shirts this fall, this is a great vintage style to snag. With the oversized fit, it’ll look cute worn buttoned up as a dress with boots or unbuttoned over a tank top with jeans. The seller is out of Toronto and handpicks each item. ($82.65, Lostboysvintage via Etsy)

One reason we love vintage clothing is the history that comes with it. Did you know that Polo has a brand called Double RL — named after Ralph Lauren’s ranch in Colorado — that’s a collection of Western workwear? Now, did you know that before there was Double RL, there was Polo Sportsman? This outdoorsy line is a surefire way to stand out in a sea of Polo. These styles can go for thousands, so this classic beige button-up is relatively affordable. ($234.84, Holdwest via Etsy)

Most people don’t know there’s an entire section of Free People’s website dedicated to vintage sellers. This T-shirt is exactly what you want in a vintage tee: it’s bright, statement-making, and just random enough. Other standout picks from this seller include this cute tee and this letterman sweater from the ‘60s. ($78, Free People)

You can also find great vintage outerwear at Free People. This belted leather trench comes in a rich dark brown you’ll be seeing everywhere this fall. The gold hardware gives it a little edge, and it’s in excellent condition. You’ll find yourself grabbing this to add some cool-girl appeal to your office ’fits. ($168, Free People)

There’s nothing like a soft, worn-in vintage sweatshirt. This one is small enough that it won’t look slouchy when paired with a mini skirt and boots. If you went to Notre Dame, even better. We also like this oversized one that would look cute with biker shorts à la Princess Diana. ($168, Free People)

One of the most classic and arguably most sought-after vintage clothing items is the Rolling Stones tour shirt. This one is heavily distressed with small holes and fading, but that’s what makes it special. It looks like you’ve been wearing it since you got it at the concert, even if you didn't (we won’t tell). ($80.99, eBay)

Can you tell we’re on a Polo kick? This jacket is made of a rich chocolate suede and has a tartan lining to keep you warm. We love that the Polo logo is understated, and that it looks like the kind of jacket you stole from your dad’s closet. The seller notes there are a few spots that will likely come out if it’s dry-cleaned. ($150, eBay)

When we think of The RealReal, we think of scoring designer bags, shoes, and accessories at prices that are hard to believe. These mules are no exception. While they’re in a tiny size and have some wear, snagging these fabulous shoes that originally retailed for $795 is what vintage shopping dreams are made of. Plus, leopard is back, baby. ($60, The RealReal)

This year is all about the suede tote. But there’s really never a fall where a suede bag isn’t appropriate, which makes this a smart investment. There are no designer logos, just rich black suede that’ll get softer over the years. You could practically carry your first-born child in this, it’s that roomy. ($1,495, The RealReal)

The price of sunglasses has been taking us out lately, but if you can’t resist a designer pair, vintage is the way to go. Plus, you won’t have to worry as much if you’re someone who’s always dropping or losing them. These are a fun cat-eye pair with minor scratches that’ll liven up your fall outfits. ($156, The RealReal)

Shopbop Archive is a collection of vintage designer handbags curated by Shopbop, and if you’re looking for Louis, this is a great place to start. The Neverfull Tote is a classic you really can’t go wrong with, and is versatile enough to use as a work bag or carry-on when you travel. Other styles we’d highlight are this adorable messenger bag and this shoulder bag with red accents. ($1,930, Shopbop)

Last year, one editor wrote about this Gucci bag she scored on a trip to London, and almost a year later, it’s still her most-used bag. It’s like Mary Poppins’ bag; you wouldn’t believe how much fits in here, from sunglasses to a full-size wallet to at least four lip products. It’s one of the more affordable Gucci styles, and Shopbop usually has a few on their site. ($570, Shopbop)