Within the past few years, I have quickly realized quality is almost always more important than quantity. A medium-sized closet with quality, staple pieces beats a large wardrobe consisting of just okay clothing. Exceptional materials and longevity are essential for a piece of clothing to stay in a solid rotation. New pickups can be rewarding and exciting especially more sought after items that require some dedicated hunting.
Earlier in 2022, I donated and sold over 40% of my closet. It makes no sense to continue to hold on to clothes that barely get worn. There is too much time and space taken up by things we don’t find useful anymore. Now, it is vital to personally only buy clothing that will last a while and will get worn often.
Mind Over Matter
When we clutter our personal space, the mind often feels confined too. Focusing more finding useful materialistic things temporarily places over consumerism in the rearview mirror. Vintage and second hand clothing strongly promote reusability and keeping goods circulating in the market.
Fast fashion is more prevalent now than ever in the history of clothing. The rise of the vintage market over the past few decades promotes economically and environmentally friendly choices from countless consumers.
Placing an emphasis more on quality lets pickups become more meaningful and thought out.
Vintage Finds
Casual collectors, serious hunters, and vintage enthusiasts alike know the feeling of finding a hidden gem at the local thrift store or second hand shop. One person throwing away an old shirt might be another’s perfect vintage find. Subjectivity rules in almost all aspects of fashion, especially within the vintage realm. Universally, condition and age are more objective than other features of vintage pieces.
The vintage market is ever evolving. Trends come and go just like other niches. However, some of the best vintage clothing comes with more time. Aged pieces are often worth more than newer ones; rarity brings more thrill in the hunt for the next vintage pickup.
Sports vintage resonates with countless collectors. Timeless pieces from memorable games, celebrations, and championships rarely go out of style. Old school lettering and logos have seen a major resurgence in the recent past. A vintage t shirt will always be a classic staple that pairs well with streetwear and sneakers alike.
This Pittsburgh Pirates 1994 All Star Game shirt caught my eye as soon as I saw it. Black classic lettering with yellow bordering and vice versa both stand out effortlessly. The 1994 MLB All Star Game logo showcases the Pittsburgh skyline with one of the city’s prominent bridges in the forefront.
Vintage sports clothing is easily one of the most coveted subcategories in the vintage world. Throwback uniforms and logos contribute a great deal of importance to vintage sports pieces. Historical aspects of franchises across various sports provide even more significance.
Undefeated Pickups
Founded in Los Angeles, CA in 2002, Undefeated is a well respected sneaker boutique and apparel brand. There are several brick and mortar stores across the United States as well as in Japan. As a brand known for its quality and craftsmanship, the label has not been shy in terms of collaborations. Nike, Jordan, Adidas, Bape, and Anti Social Social Club are just a few well known brands that have produced remarkable collabs with Undefeated.
Good fitting quality pants are not easy to find especially for men over six feet tall. After looking around on Grailed, some Undefeated cargo pants caught my attention. Once they came in the mail, they did not disappoint especially for below retail price.
The Undefeated olive cargo pants are noticeably made of quality materials that are built to last. Minimal branding adds fine yet recognizable touches to the relaxed fitting pants. Spacious pockets and drawstrings at the leg openings are both necessary compliments.
Another Grailed pickup makes the cut. Undefeated pants might be my new go-to option; the fit and materials combine for an exceptional execution by the LA based label.
This particular pair was more of an impulse decision. However, since getting the pants in person, they have not been disappointing at all.
The reflective workout pants provide a fresh look to a comfortable clothing option. Perfect for casual wear and working out, this pair is a solid alternative to basic gray sweats.
Future Pickups
Vintage and streetwear are constantly evolving. Trends come and go, but personal touch is typically built to last. A individual’s particular style depends on the inspirations they draw from their surroundings and consumed media, ads, and previous purchases. Fashion niches like vintage and streetwear see endless changes due to numerous factors. However, one thing remains stagnant- the ability to express oneself freely and openly.
As time goes on, I am making a conscious effort to be more selective when buying clothing and accessories. It is easy to buy clothes to simply increase the size of one’s closet. In the future, personal pickups will focus on quality rather than quantity. Anything worthwhile should be of high quality and built to last.
