When we talk about responsible fashion, two terms come up all the time: vintage and second-hand. But do these two notions mean exactly the same thing? Spoiler: not quite, and understanding the difference can help you hunt better and find pieces that really suit your desires.
✨ Vintage: a journey through time
Vintage is first and foremost a question ofera. For a garment to qualify as vintage, it generally has to be at least 20 years old. So we're talking 80s, 90s, even early 2000s today. But beware: it's not just a question of age! Vintage is also the reflection of an era in terms of style, cut and materials. It's that high-waisted jean typical of the 90s, that weathered leather jacket or that retro print dress.
👉 At United Vintage, our bales can hold authentic vintage nuggets, perfect for fans of pieces with a real history.
🔄 La Seconde Main: a second life, regardless of age
Second-hand is a broader term. It refers to any garment that has already had a first owner, regardless of age. It could be a Zara sweater bought in 2022 or a dress from the 60s. Second-hand is above all an ethical approach: reuse what already exists to limit textile production and waste.
👉 With our United Vintage bales, you'll receive a varied mix of second-hand clothing: vintage pieces as well as more recent garments, always carefully selected.
✅ Why it's important to make a difference
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For your style: If you're looking to create authentic retro looks, you'll be aiming for vintage. If your goal is simply to have affordable, eco-responsible clothes, classic second-hand will do just fine.
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For resale: On platforms like Vinted, the word "vintage" often attracts more attention, but beware: it must be used advisedly. A piece that is too recent should not be labelled vintage.
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For your ecological conscience: Both approaches are great for the planet 💚!
🔥 Our United Vintage tip
Whether you're a fan of pure vintage or simply looking for stylish second-hand clothes, our bundles are made for you. Each box contains a unique assortment that can mix vintage and more modern pieces: it's the perfect opportunity to bargain from home ✌️
👉 Discover our bundles & boxes here
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