Vintage Jewelry

Vintage jewelry has some of  the most sentimental value. Whether you inherit it,  passed down or you have purchased, vintage jewelry has high emotional and financial value.

Whether it is engagement rings, hat pins or brooches, vintage jewelry is appreciated for its craftsmanship and timelessness. Bakelite, art deco the list can go on and on. Those that are new to vintage, jewelry is the introductory piece to becoming a connoisseur.

When shopping for vintage jewelry look for  pieces in good condition, cleaning jewelry isn't hard, but repairing pieces can get very complex and costly. You also, want to carry a magnifying glass to look for signage, that influences price and resell value. Last, look for design, and do your research on periods, jewelry from the early 20th century holds great value both style and financial. 

Let's Talk Kenneth Jay Lane

Ever a fan of statement jewelry, I've enjoyed  the Kenneth Jay Lane since using it on a fashion shoot in 2002.  KJL for short, has been around since 1963 and has and is a favorite of socialites and celebrities. His pieces are bold with inspiration from as early as the  Byzantine Empire to French Provincial. Many of his earlier works from 1963-1980  are collected by major vintage collectors. Many KJL pieces are forms of inspiration from your favorite fast fashion brands as well. Take a look at these vintage pieces and get to know and start collecting Kenneth Jay Lane.

Intro to Vintage Clothing

Vintage clothing isn't always an easy sell. I've had my fair share of possible customers who are intimidated by old clothes. Sometimes it's the boldness that freaks them out in our very casual dressed culture of today. Sometimes it's the fact that it was previously worn by someone that creeps people out. They are all understandable hang ups that I try to understand and still coax a sell out of those that have apprehensions.  If you are new to vintage but not sure how to or what to buy, here are a few tips to get you to become a connoisseur.

Start Small

Whether you're buying stocks, real estate or anything else you are new to, start small. Your first vintage purchase should never be a red fox gown length cape, unless you are someone who just  jumps into anything. Start off with small baubles, costume jewelry is always great for beginners. Go for a brooch, a bracelet or a cocktail ring. Vintage jewelry is almost always great statement pieces and conversation starters.


Banging Bags

After costume jewelry, vintage bags are the next step up. The clutches and frame bags of decades before us can really add some uumph to your wardrobe.  Usually smaller in size in comparison to modern day luggage like totes, the classic bags from the 1950s and 60s are delicate ladylike and just enough room for a night out necessities.


Belt It

A fierce belt can add massive wattage to an outfit. Whether they are skinny or large,vintage belts adds a hint of sophistication, creating shape to shapeless dresses and baggy coats.  Belts very rarely look vintage and can give your wardrobe great range and will get a myriad of wears.



Coat It

Yes, I jumped from accessories to coats but vintage outerwear is very seductive even to a vintage newbie. Whether it's army/navy, fur or classic wool in Gotham City, your coat is part armor, part fashion statement.  Go into stores today and its the same styles on the rack.  Vintage outerwear is always glam and practical at the same time.


All pictures courtesy of Vintage Shaun on Etsy.com

Ask Vintage Shaun: The Chanel Debate

This came into my inbox a few weeks ago and I got swamped so I apologize Mina!

Hey! So I have this vintage quilted chain necklace. I've had it authenticated but they offered very little for it. Is it worth keeping or should I sell?

Chanel anything makes ears perk, especially when it comes to vintage. However, when it comes to vintage Chanel jewelry the pieces that move the most are usually logo based. Logos are not just a hood fab necessity, logos are cultural reference points and status symbols across both  generations and cultures.  With saying, your piece has Chanel insignia  on top part of the charm combined with classic vintage  elements of a thick chain but the current market isn't offering huge amounts for Chanel jewelry. In the age of eBay, the market gets flooded with high end goods and looses it's cache. Add that to the fact the piece isn't a large logo piece the size of Ghostface Killa's chain and the market may not be in your favor right now. Here's some style advice, don't sell it keep it as a true heirloom, appreciate the fact you have a pretty classic piece. Keep treasures close to you. How many people do you know with vintage Chanel?



If  you or someone you know has a family heirloom or have a question about vintage clothing, send pictures and questions to vintageshaun@gmail.com