Thrift Tip: Sammy D Shows you the Ropes

Stylecaster just posted an interview with vintage maven and Quarter Life fave Sammy D and we're loving these tips. Even the most experienced of thrifters can use Sammy's reminders to check the condition and quality of items as you prowl through secondhand stores.

Tip #5 is my favorite, as I've recently started looking for union tags in the vintage pieces I pick up for the Quarter Life Closet and upcoming pop-up shop (you saw right!):

5. Find its vintage scorecard
Search for a union card, which would be found attached to the inside seam. A union tag is proof that the piece was produced and supported by a clothing union, which existed in the U.S. before the overseas boom of clothing production began in the mid-80s. Union tags are usually square and about ½ inch by ½ inch; red, white, and blue; and state the name of the union (i.e. “The Ladies Garment Workers Union” and “Made in U.S.A.”). If you find a union tag, you’ve definitely scored a vintage piece-- which by definition is at least 20 years old. It’s like having a timestamp on your clothing!

More details on the pop-up shop when the dates get confirmed. Until now, check out the awesome tips and photos that Sammy D and Janice Chou at Stylecaster have to offer!

♥