What Is Vintage?

And What Makes It Vintage?

If you're new to the world of vintage clothing, don't worry — this quick guide will walk you through what we mean when we use the word vintage.

At its most basic, vintage simply means old.
But in fashion terms, it's a bit more specific.

So, what qualifies as vintage?

Typically, vintage clothing refers to garments that were made at least 20 years ago.
That means anything produced in the 2000s or earlier generally qualifies as vintage today.

However, the term can be used more loosely depending on who you ask.
Some people — especially younger generations, trendsetters, or fashion lovers — might even call items from the early 2010s vintage because those styles feel retro or nostalgic. So while 20+ years is the general benchmark, the definition can vary.

But how do you date a piece of clothing?

Dating every item isn’t always straightforward.
Labels, production dates, or manufacturing details aren’t always available — and with the volume of stock we handle at Brag, it’s not always possible to pinpoint the exact year.

In many cases, vintage simply means:

• Second-hand

• Pre-loved

• Or older clothing with style and character

What’s the charm of vintage?

The real appeal lies in its quality and uniqueness.
Many older garments were made to last — crafted with care, durable fabrics, and timeless design. And the best part? You’re often getting something special for less than the cost of buying new.

Just getting started?

We recommend beginning with something classic and versatile — like a great pair of vintage jeans. They’ll stay stylish for another 20 years, guaranteed.

Want to learn more?
Check out our Denim Blog where we dive into everything from:

• Vintage brand guides

• Denim care tips

• Styling advice

• And how to spot truly timeless pieces