With recent years having seen a boom in the popularity of ‘vintage’ fashion, here at RETRuly, we thought you might appreciate a few pointers as to how you can get your look right when shopping for vintage menswear such as vintage denim jackets, whether through our own online marketplace or elsewhere.
Which era are you targeting?
One thing that marks out a genuinely great fashion era is that distinctive, unmistakable style that differs from the eras before or after it. One of the first things that you will therefore need to consider is what era of vintage menswear you generally want to focus on.
Bear in mind that if you want to mix your vintage pieces with more contemporary elements, items from the later 20th century are probably best. However, there are also smarter styles from earlier in the century that could still prove versatile in this regard.
What condition should the clothing be in?
If you are serious about actually wearing your vintage denim jackets and other vintage menswear, you should really be seeking out items in a near-mint or excellent condition. By that, we mean items that have been worn on a few occasions but are otherwise clearly well-preserved.
Unfortunately, there are few pre-owned vintage clothes out there that are in a genuinely mint state – you are almost certainly going to see some level of wear or ageing.
Are you shopping in the right place?
There are few pleasures in life quite like sifting through the racks of charity shops for vintage gems, although if you’ve got a very specific style or type of item in mind, the experience can quickly become frustrating. eBay is an obvious alternative place to look, but you can’t always guarantee that the items you receive will actually be vintage.
This is where we’ve shaken things up here at RETRuly, with our fast-growing dedicated vintage marketplace. We even remove items from our sellers’ stores that are not genuine vintage items, to assist you as a buyer in your efforts to achieve the perfect look.
How will different items of yours work together?
There are certain items that can be relied upon to complement each other really well – the white T-shirt, denim jeans and leather jacket look, for example, has been proved to work time and time again over the years, in the hands of such legends as Marlon Brando and James Dean.
How will you achieve a distinctive look of your own?
Yes, you may be investing in such items as vintage denim jackets in the first place because you were inspired by a certain movie or TV star’s use of them, but you probably won’t want to look like you’re completely frozen in a previous age. A few contemporary touches can be great for bringing your look into the present day without surrendering the best things about the vintage aesthetic.
Remember that not every element of your costume needs to be vintage. As much as you may love that vintage polo shirt or classic Oxford shirt, for example, it may actually look fresher or more interesting when you wear it with some skinny jeans rather than something obviously ‘vintage’.
Click through to learn more about RETRuly and why our sellers should be your focal point when you are seeking to assemble the perfect vintage wardrobe. Remember that you can also find great items across many other classic categories with us – we’re about so much more than vintage denim jackets!
Posted in Vintage Clothing Tagged with: mens vintage clothing, vintage clothing, vintage denim jacket
As vintage enthusiasts we like nothing more than a vintage shopping trip in London. One of our favourite areas is Brick Lane, E1. In this blog we will present our favourite vintage shops.
Map of Brick Lane E1 and surrounding area
We start at Liverpool Street station and head straight across Commercial Road towards Spitalfields Market. There are not many vintage vendors in the market now but it’s a great place to grab a coffee of bite to eat from the many fantastic vendors here.
We head straight towards Brick lane and to the first stop, Blitz Vintage in Hanbury Street. This is a stylish store set over two floors with a huge range of vintage clothes and accessories for men and women. It makes the Time Out top ten vintage stores so is a great place to start.
Blitz Vintage in Hanbury Street
From here, go back to Brick Lane and head north and you will come across the Vintage Market in the basement of the Old Truman Brewery on the left. This is one of our favourite spots. It is full of vintage vendors selling everything from vintage fashion, accessories to vinyl records. This market is on every week from Thursday to Sunday.
The Vintage Market in the Old Truman Building, Brick Lane
Inside the Vintage Market, Brick Lane
Along Brick Lane there is lots to see, with some fantastic food, craft markets and some great street musicians. As you continue North take a right hand turn into Cheshire Street. The first store on you right is House of Vintage, this is a small store but we always stop here for their superb range of rare leather and denim jackets. It’s a great place for that big E Levi jacket or 1950’s leather biker jacket.
House of Vintage, Cheshire Street
From here, continue along Cheshire Street to Beyond Retro. This vintage store is in a huge warehouse and has an enormous selection of vintage. Their range is for all budgets and if you take the time to really search you will find the odd hidden gem. This is well worth the small detour.
Beyond Retro, Cheshire Street
Back on Brick Lane heading North you will see Rokit Vintage on your right. This is one of the most well know vintage stores and is well worth a visit. They have a large range of clothing and accessories and the sale rail is a must. We have found some real gems at bargain prices.
Rokit Vintage, Brick Lane
At the top end of Brick Lane is Hunky Dory. It is a small shop and although there is very little men’s, they have some lovely women’s vintage. It’s a really stylish little shop and a great place to finish.
Hunky Dory, Brick Lane
We hope this inspires you to visit Brick Lane, it is a great day out and one of the best areas for vintage in the country.
If you can’t get to London, why not shop thousands of lovely vintage items from the comfort of your home at the RETRuly Marketplace.
Posted in Marketplace Information, Vintage Clothing Tagged with: vintage brick lane, vintage clothing, vintage shopping, vintage shopping guide
We attended the fantastic Flywheel Festival for the first time this year and wasn’t disappointed. What a great family day out it proved to be.
Flywheel is a spectacular Family day out that combines the very best of heritage action to create a weekend of nostalgia and excitement.
Set against the backdrop of the UK’s best preserved second world war bomber station – Bicester Heritage in Oxfordshire, Flywheel is a unique opportunity to get close up to the UK’s most impressive gathering of historical cars, aircraft and military machinery in action.
There was a magnificent displays and flypasts from historic aircraft; thrilling demonstrations by historic road and racing cars; and dramatic military vehicle displays and re-enactors.
One of the many Vintage racing cars
Also hundreds of classic cars and bikes on show and vintage clothing & home-wares to browse. For the big and little kids there were traditional fun fair rides and period music performances.
As we approached the venue we started to notice the number of stunning and rare vintage cars on their way to the event. The classic cars were directed to a different area to allow the festival goers to stroll around and admire these beautiful machines.
On entry we headed straight to the Military machines and a memorable tank ride.
Next we spent a while at the track watching some of the most beautiful original racing cars from the 1930’s to 1940s tear around the track. The commentary provided gave us lots of really interesting information of the history of each of the cars.
Next stop was the paddocks where all these cars were being lovingly prepared by their owners to take to the tracks. I have not seen so many truly rare classic racing cars assembled in one place.
Nest it was time for some lunch so we headed straight to the vintage catering vans. We had a lovely lunch in the music marquee listening to the fabulous Candy Girls.
Fully refreshed we then headed off for some shopping. The marquee full of vintage clothing and home-wares as well as military themed goods.
Vintage Shopping & the marquee
My daughter particularly enjoyed the vintage fairground rides, especially the bumper cars.
Vintage Fun Fair
The rest of our afternoon was spent watching the air displays, including a stunning Tiger Moth biplane display team, a Spitfire and Buchon dogfight and Super-Pitts aerobatic display.
Some of the classic Bi-Planes on the airfield
We will definitely be returning next year and would recommend this fabulous days out to everyone!
Posted in Vintage Events Tagged with: classic cars, flywheel festival, vintage clothing, vintage planes
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Posted in Marketplace Information Tagged with: vintage clothing, vintage seller
Many people have dreamed of leaving their 9-5 job to start their own vintage clothing business, but building a successful business in such a competitive marketplace in no easy task. It takes, passion, focus, hard work and dedication.
Paul, the founder of RETRuly is one of the pioneers of selling vintage online and shares his experience and provides some advice to help you make a success of your business and avoid some of the pitfalls.
So where do I start?
The very first thing you should do is decide on your business name. We recommend keeping it short and memorable. It is also important that the domain name is available. You can check the domain availability at Domain Check. Once you have chosen your name, reserve the domain name.
What should I sell?
This is one of the biggest challenges for any vintage business and one that needs careful consideration. In our experience, it is better to specialise in a particular area rather than trying to sell a bit of everything. This way you can become an expert and target your customers much more effectively. Where does your passion lie? Dresses, handbags, jewellery, men’s vintage? This is what you should specialise in.
Great, so now you have decided on what you want to sell. But before you start buying you need to ensure that you can actually make a profit. So what prices can I expect to achieve and how much should I spend on the stock? The unique nature of vintage makes this a challenging question but there is a really useful tool that for a small monthly investment can save you hundreds of pounds in the long term.
Terapeak is a fantastic resource for researching the market. It provides three months of ebay sales data, enabling you to determine the size of the market, prices achieved, the most successful vintage businesses selling what you plan to sell. Using this valuable resource not only gives you an idea of what you can charge, but you can also determine the size of the market and also research the successful businesses so you can learn from them. We also found that using Terapeak identified product ranges that we hadn’t originally considered. There is a small monthly fee, but we recommend this tool as it helps you make informed decisions that can be the difference between success and failure.
So you now have a more complete picture of what you can sell your products for. So now in order to make a profit you need to ensure you buy the stock at the right price. You need to factor in all your direct costs, cleaning, commission, sales fees and also you indirect costs, time, equipment costs, utility costs etc. As a rule of thumb, you need to be aiming at buying your stock at about 30-40% of your sale price.
Where can I buy stock?
This is probably the biggest challenge you will face as a vintage seller but there is no easy answer. Vintage sellers build up a network of suppliers over many years and closely guard these valuable contacts.
However, there are now a number of online vintage wholesalers that can be found with a simple google search. The only advice we have is to proceed with caution and don’t make a big purchase until you know exactly what you are getting. Where possible go and meet the wholesaler first and look at the stock, some even allow you to hand-pick. If this is not possible, start with a small sample order so that you can check the condition and quality. Don’t make the mistake that many new sellers do place a large order hoping for the best as you may end up with lots of dead stock that will kill your profit margin.
Where should I sell?
For a new seller we would recommend starting small and building your business over time. To do this there are two main options, either vintage fairs or open an online marketplace store. Selling on your own web page can be expensive, although there are many hosted solutions such as shopify, one of the hardest things is getting enough traffic to your new store to generate the sales that you need. This takes time and you need to either spend on Google Adwords and/or SEO to build your web traffic.
We would recommend opening a store on a specialist online marketplace. You will get an immediate online presence with no financial investment. There are a few options for vintage sellers, ETSY, eBay, ASOS Marketplace and now RETRuly. So which one is best for me?
ETSY is a huge online Marketplace with tons of traffic but it is an American business so most of the buyers are based there. Also, with millions of products you are likely to have to pay to promote your items to get the visibility you need.
eBay is the largest online Marketplace, with many Vintage Sellers doing pretty well on there, but many sellers are leaving them as it is not the site it used to be. With high fees, regular policy changes and a search algorithm that is geared towards multi-list items it is a real challenge to get your products seen.
If you have access to a good photography set up and models and can meet ASOS Marketplace rigid listings requirements this can be a good option for you, but you need to work hard to build your sales and reputation to get good visibility in their search. We have also found that although a paid promotion option is available it is hard to find an open slot as they tend to be block booked by other sellers.
RETRuly is a new marketplace, so can’t compete on the traffic generated by the corporate marketplaces, but as specialist marketplace with lower fees and fewer sellers to compete with it may be a good option for you. RETRuly is also run by a team with a real passion for vintage who can offer a more personal level of support and advice that the others can’t.
The Perfect Listing
So you have your stock and have decided where to sell so how do you list your items to maximise your chances of selling?
Because buyers are scanning lots of items you need to ensure that your get noticed. Your photos therefore need to be good. There are plenty of online resources with advice on product photography, so do you research. Whether you are using models, mannequins or flat photography it is essential that your images show your products of to the full, with various views and closeups showing texture, patterns or defects. We recommend investing in a good camera as this will pay for itself in no time with increased sales.
Your product title needs include all the key words that buyers are likely to use to search for your product as poorly worded titles will not be found in on-site searches or google. It is also a good idea to specify the product size in the title.
If you have grabbed the attention of a potential buyer with your photos and title your product description is your opportunity to close the sale. You need to be as descriptive as possible, include all dimensions, fabric details, care instructions and also identify any defects that may be present.
Product Promotion
So you have opened your shop and now need to attract buyers. Following the listing guidelines above will bring your customers but you also need to do all you can to promote your own store and listings.
Please read our guide to promoting your store
Store Management
The most effective way of growing your business is to build your repeat customer base. The first order is always the hardest as your customer is making a leap of faith in you. Never treat a sale as a one-off, instead treat it as the start of a relationship with that customer. Give them a reason to keep coming back by providing an excellent service, package nicely, ship quickly and respond immediately with any concerns that customer may have.
It is also very important to maintain your store by regularly listing new products and ensure that any items that are no longer available are removed from sale.
We really hope that you found this guide useful. Click here to download a PDF version of this guide.
The expert team at RETRuly have a vast amount experience in selling vintage online. All RETRuly store owners have direct access to our team of experts who are available to support and mentor.
Posted in Marketplace Information Tagged with: selling vintage, vintage business, vintage clothing, vintage seller, vintage store
In our second seller interview we hear from Faye Kingston, Owner of Throw Back Vintage.
Here is what Faye has to say about her business and the world of vintage clothing.
1. Can you provide a brief introduction to your business?
We sell vintage, retro and reworked items. Focusing on the fashion trends, and bringing high quality affordable clothing to everyone. Our brand makes clothing accessible to everyone. We love recycling!
2. How long have you been selling vintage?
Since I was in 6th form. It was a side line. So nearly 7 years now.
3. How did you get started in Vintage?
I went to Uni to study biochemistry and had a suitcase of vintage under my bed, and sold it. Decided I hated my course and left it to sell vintage.
4. Describe your typical business day.
We arrive into the warehouse, have a shoot with a model, list items online and edit photos, source stock, stock arrives in containers once a week from the USA and we sort it, taking and picking up laundry from our washing man. We pack orders up, and send them next day delivery in the uk. Showing items on Instagram before they hit up online!
5. What is your favourite era and why?
Im not one of these people that is era specific, I like to mix things up and mix up eras but if I had to choose I love the 1940’s or 1950’s. Due to how feminine the clothes are, and how shapely the clothes make a woman look. Although I have to say I started buying 1940’s and 50’s clothes because they fit really well. I love the 60’s as well, because everything is so vibrant and bold. That’s why the 80’s rocks too!
6. What are your favourite 2 items you currently have listed?
I love any of the Sherpa Denim jackets we have as they are so versatile and easy to wear. They can literally be worn with anything!! Another item I absolutely love is the Rolling Stones bomber jacket! It’s so cool!! Someone has got to rock that. If it fit me it would be a keeper.
What are your future plans for you business? We want to concentrate on up cycling more, and turning garments which are completely trashed or undesirable into new quirky on trend items.
7. What are your future plans for you business?
We want to concentrate on up cycling more, and turning garments which are completely trashed or undesirable into new quirky on trend items
8. What advice would you give to anyone thinking of starting a vintage business?
Be careful about what you want your brand to be about. Don’t try and do everything at once, try and be niche.
9. What was your most exciting vintage find or what was your most memorable buying trip?
My most exciting vintage find, was probably at a flea market in Paris, where I found a 1940’s cashmere coat with arctic fox fur trim, for 20 euros! Complete bargain.
<CLICK HERE> to see the Throw Back Vintage ETSY Store.
Posted in Marketplace Information Tagged with: selling vintage, throw back vintage, vintage clothing
Although purses and handbags became popular for women in the 16th century and late 18th century it was the Victorian era which is considered to have seen the greatest evolution in handbag design.
Many modern handbag designers are influenced by the vintage designs of the past but for the purist only an original vintage handbag will do. You just can’t reproduce the authenticity of the genuine vintage handbag, one that has had a life, has a history, with it’s own story to tell.
In this blog we will share 8 popular vintage handbag styles for you. Each one available on RETRuly.
Vintage 1950s Blue Leather Kelly Style Handbag
A pretty vintage Kelly style handbag that was made by Freedex in 1950’s in Republic of Ireland. It will be shipped with original packaging and mirror.
Dimensions: 10. 5 x 7 x 3 inches
Price: £36.00
Vintage 1930’s Tapestry Handbag
It’s quite comfortable, soft and cute handbag especially for women. It will glamorize your personality in public gatherings. Made in the 1930’s. Peach silk lining.
Dimensions: 11 x 11 x 3 inches
Price: £42.00
Vintage Navy Blue Raffia Handbag
Beautiful vintage navy blue raffia handbag made in the 1950’s in Japan. A lovely example of an original 1950s handbag.
Dimensions: 11 x 5 x 8 inches
Price: £24.00
Vintage Beaded Bag – Doves In A Cherry Tree
Although this beaded bag is a vintage one, it’s still very much in fashion. It clearly demonstrates the innovation and attraction attached to this vintage bag in different arenas. It also has pull cord through the top. A couple of black beaded handles are also attached with it (14 inches). Inside material is made up of plain black cotton
Dimensions: 15 x 16 inches
Price: £22.00
This white Rattan handbag was originally made in Hong Kong and particular recommended for summer season
Dimensions: 11 x 4 x 8 inches
Price: £25.00
Vintage 1950’s Kelly Style Handbag – Pale Green
This pale green hand bag by Kelly Style just catches the attention in any social gathering at the first site. Its vintage value is unique and attracts others to praise it. It was originally made in the US by Gammins in 1950’s. It’s interior material is made up of peach silk
Dimensions: 9.5 x 7.5 x 3.5 inches
Price: £32.00
Original 1980s Vintage White Leather Clutch Bag
This white leather clutch bag has an envelope style and its leather is not detrimental to suede lining. It was vintage made in 1980s and is available in good condition
Dimensions: 10 x 5.5 inches
Price: £18.00
1950s French Silk Vanity Vintage Handbag
Its ivory fabric interior, large beveled mirror, ivory silk coin purse and small gold toned perfume bottle just hypnotizes everyone who looks at it. Its outer shell demonstrates Chinese scenes whereas its corners reveal the delicacy of the handbag
Dimensions: 6 x 5 x 1 inches
Price: £45.99
Why not start your vintage handbag collection today. RETRuly has a lovely selection and with new items added weekly you are sure to find the perfect piece.
Posted in Vintage Clothing Tagged with: 1950s handbags, vintage clothing, vintage handbags, vintage purses
At last, a genuine alternative to eBay & ETSY for your vintage needs! Since it’s launch in the summer of 2016 RETRuly has seen huge growth as vintage sellers are seeking an alternative to corporate marketplaces.
RETRuly was created by vintage lovers, for vintage lovers. With low fees and very easy listing process it is becoming a firm favourite, with more sellers joining every day.
Do you have vintage clothing of vintage homewares to sell but are tired of the other marketplaces? Sign-up today for a FREE three month trial and start selling.
Do you have a lot of items on another marketplace and don’t have time to list them again? Don’t worry, we can even help you with that, contact us today to find out how we can help you.
Posted in Marketplace Information Tagged with: sell vintage, vintage clothes, vintage clothing, vintage marketplace, vintage seller