How Vintage Clothing Sizes Differ From Modern Fashion Sizes
One of the first things people notice when shopping around for vintage clothing is that the sizes are smaller than they are for modern clothing. A dress that was labeled size 12 in the 1950s, for example, may be closer to a modern size 6 or 8.
This difference can be perplexing to shoppers who only look at the number printed on the label. Vintage clothing sizes were based on different measurements than the current sizes. Due to this, the same size number is not always equivalent to the same body measurements.
Understanding this difference is important when buying basics for a vintage style, essentially when making purchases in online stores or while shopping in thrift shops.
How Clothing Size Standards Have Changed
Vintage clothing sizes were based on measurement charts used by clothing manufacturers many decades ago. During the mid-20th century, clothing was frequently designed to have a more structured fit and less stretch.
Manufacturers used body dimensions that reflected the average sizes of women at the time. Over the years, those averages slowly changed as clothing companies updated their sizing charts.
Modern fashion brands often change sizing to suit the expectations of their consumers today. Due to this change, the sizes of vintage clothing are seldom equivalent to modern labels.
The Impact of Vanity Sizing
Another reason why vintage clothing sizes differ from modern clothing sizes is called vanity sizing. Over time, the clothing companies started to put jeans and other types of clothing in smaller numbers than the actual measurements.
For example, a modern size 8 may be fitted closer to what used to be labeled size 12 or 14 decades ago. This change provides for customers to purchase smaller sizes even if their body measurements are close.
Since vintage clothing was made before vanity sizing became standard, the labels more likely reflect older standards of size that were closer to real measurements.
Fabric and Fit Differences
The materials used for vintage clothing also influence how clothes fit. Many vintage pieces were made from woven fabrics such as cotton, wool, linen, or silk. These fabrics had very little stretch to them.
Modern clothing often contains synthetic fabrics such as spandex or elastane, which make clothes stretch and conform to various body shapes. This flexibility makes modern sizing seem more forgiving.
Vintage clothing was typically better known for its tailored look. Darts, seams, and fitted waistlines produced structured silhouettes that demanded more accurate sizing.
Because of this, the sizes of vintage clothing tend to be more precise and less stretchy than modern clothing.
Why Measurements are More Important than Labels
When shopping for vintage clothes, measurements make a lot more sense than sizes. The number that is printed on the tag may not be what we expect modern garments to be, but the actual measurements of that garment will give a better idea of how it would fit.
Some important measurements to check are:
- Bust
- Waist
- Hips
- Shoulder width
- Length
Comparing these measurements with your own body measurements helps to determine if a vintage garment is going to fit comfortably.
Many vintage sellers give detailed measurements because they know that size labels are not always correct.
Differences Between Handmade and Store-Bought Vintage Clothing
Vintage clothing sizes may vary even more, even if the garment was sewn. In past decades, many people used to make their own clothes using sewing patterns.
These homemade pieces were often tailored to be specific to a person. As a result, maybe the measurements would not line up with standard size charts at all.
Factory-made clothes adhered to sizing measurements adopted by the clothing manufacturers at the time, but even these measurements were not the same as modern garment sizing.
This is another reason why it is important to check measurements when purchasing vintage clothes.
Tips on How to Find the Right Vintage Fit
Shopping for vintage clothing will be so much easier once you have knowledge of how sizing works. Instead of paying attention to the label, pay attention to the measurements of the clothing item.
If possible, try on the clothing before buying. When purchasing online, take the time to compare the given measurements carefully with your own.
It can also help to give a little extra room, as usually vintage fabrics have little stretch. A slightly larger garment can often be made for a better fit.
Taking these steps will make it easier to enjoy vintage fashion without having to worry about confusing size labels.
Why Vintage Clothing Still Appeals to Modern Shoppers
Even with the discrepancies in sizes, vintage clothing continues to be worn by many people. Vintage garments often have unique designs, quality fabrics, and craftsmanship that are hard to come by in modern mass-produced fashion.
For many shoppers, wearing vintage clothing is also a means of expressing personal style and making a connection to fashion history.
By learning the differences between the sizes of vintage clothes and modern clothing, it is a lot easier to look for clothes that will fit well and be comfortable to wear.