It had a square neck and balloon sleeves and it looked special in the photograph. I ordered the dress and when it arrived, I noticed the frayed hem was not as edgy as it had appeared in the photo, and the collar and sleeves made me look like a Renaissance fair worker. I knew even before I tried it on that it was a nice dress, but it would make a beautiful cushion cover.
Had I found it in person and physically handled it before purchasing, I would have paid less, with that cushion—not my cushy backside—in mind. So now, I remind myself to make careful decisions when shopping vintage online, especially when it comes to budget. The thrill of the vintage-store find is a rush but it can be tempered with a few step-away-and-step-back moves and a slow front-and-back reality check in front of a mirror. The thrill of the online auction however is more difficult to reign in. Take it from me that virtual-shopping can cloud your judgment and you’ll suddenly find yourself needing—and willing to pay anything for—that vintage Chanel skirt that you can’t even be sure will fit. I’m not afraid of eBay though, just aware. When used appropriately, it’s a great resource for vintage fabrics, scarves, beads, shoes, jewelry, and other accessories.
I prefer to stumble—not click—upon my special blouses, dresses, and tees. I want to spot them nestled between the polyester disco dress and the satin nightie. I want to feel my pulse pick up as I cross to the rack, wondering if that pattern is as I imagine, if the fit is as I dream. I want to hear them separate from the rack, shaking loose their creases and tales. I want to take them home and introduce them to my other storied finds.
Then I want to add a new chapter.
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