Key takeaways
- Labels tell the story: union tags, "Made in USA", and older logos help date a piece.
- Vintage denim, band and tour tees, workwear, and outdoor gear are especially sought after.
- Single-stitch t-shirts often signal pre-mid-'90s production.
- Vintage sells best online or to vintage dealers, not by the bag at garage sales.
Clues to age
- Union labels (ILGWU and others) on mid-century women's clothing.
- "Made in USA" labels, especially on denim, workwear, and outerwear.
- Single-stitch hems on t-shirt sleeves and bottoms.
- Metal zippers (Talon and others) on older garments.
- Care-label symbols and RN numbers you can look up.
Categories in demand
- Levi's denim, especially Big E red tabs and older 501s.
- Band, tour, and promotional tees from the '70s–'90s.
- Workwear and outdoor: Carhartt, Patagonia, The North Face, L.L.Bean, Pendleton.
- Designer and quality vintage dresses, leather jackets, and wool coats.
Selling vintage
Photograph pieces on a hanger or flat-lay against a plain background, and include measurements (pit to pit, length), not just tag size, since vintage sizing differs. Note any flaws. Online marketplaces focused on fashion and local vintage shops usually pay much more than a garage sale.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if clothing is vintage?
Check labels (union tags, Made in USA, older logos), construction such as single-stitch tees and metal zippers, and the fabric. Look up the brand's label history to date it.
Prices and tips in this guide are general guidance for U.S. sellers based on typical resale markets. They are not a certified appraisal or a guarantee of what an item will sell for. For insurance, legal, tax, or high-value items, consult a qualified appraiser.