I always go to vintage fairs with the intention of “just looking” but end up spending way more than I can afford. Last Sunday’s Vintage Fair at the City of York Council was no exception. As with any vintage fair, there were plenty of items no one would even consider buying which really were there just to be looked at, but I still managed to find plenty of perfectly wearable clothes on which to squander the last of my student loan.
However, I was saved from complete bankruptcy by my haggling skills. You only realise how overpriced everything is at a vintage fair when you start to haggle- when stall owners are happy to knock off £10, you know you were close to being ripped off. Never forget to haggle at a vintage fair!
The main problem with vintage fairs is actually finding stuff that fits. Being only 5’1″, it’s difficult to find clothes short enough even in high street stores so I always really struggle at vintage fairs. I was distraught to have to part with the perfect red dress because it was way too long. Luckily, while on the rebound after my heartbreak over the dress, I found a skirt at another stall which looked pretty much exactly like the bottom half of the dress. And it actually fitted!If, unlike me, you know how to alter clothes then you will probably strike gold at any vintage fair- I have lost count of the number of amazing vintage dresses, skirts and trousers I’ve had to give up just because I’m vertically challenged.
My friend observed how complimentary the stall owners were. When contemplating buying a belt, she was praised for her tiny waist and I was told that a pair of shoes made me look “really cute”. We scoffed that we saw right through their slick salesperson devices and were adamant that we would not fall victim to false flattery. We ended up buying both the belt and the shoes.
Unfortunately for my bank account, I will definitely go back next time the Vintage Fair comes to York. The clothes were unique, the staff were friendly and the entry fee was very reasonable. It was a great experience which reminded me why I have always loved vintage fairs.