By Ashley G Garner

 

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of hunting for vintage treasures in the fields of Brimfield, Massachusetts. As one of the largest and most famous antique fairs in New England—and arguably the entire country—the Brimfield Antique Show is a collector’s paradise for everything from antique furniture to rare vintage clothing. This past May, I spent opening day roaming the rows of vendor tents, sifting through racks of retro dresses, embroidered blouses, and buttery-soft leather bags.

For collectors and fashion lovers alike, styling thrifted vintage fashion is not just about nostalgia—it’s about bringing the beauty of the past into modern life with creativity and confidence.

Whether you’re combing through estate sales, browsing antique fairs, or thrifting in your favorite small-town shop, here’s how to turn your vintage fashion finds into standout, wearable looks for today.

1. Start with Statement Pieces from Antique Fairs and Estate Sales 

Vintage fashion is all about the hunt. Antique fairs like Brimfield, or local estate sales across Massachusetts and New England, are where you’ll uncover unique, high-quality garments that stand the test of time. I scored a 1970s floral maxi dress with dramatic bell sleeves at Brimfield this year—and trust me, no modern boutique has anything quite like it.

Styling Tip: Pair that bold vintage dress with modern sandals, chunky jewelry, and a structured leather handbag (bonus points if it’s also a collector’s piece from the fair). The blend of old and new creates a personal, editorial look that feels intentional, not costumey.

2. Mix Eras for a Curated, Collector’s Look

Don’t be afraid to mix eras. One of my favorite thrifted fashion combinations is an Edwardian lace blouse tucked into high-waisted 1980s trousers, finished with a 1950s clasp handbag I found at a New England antique store.

Why It Works for Collectors: Just like curating a home with antique furniture from multiple centuries, combining clothing from different decades creates visual interest and highlights your eye for collectible fashion. Each piece tells its own story—and together, they speak volumes.

3. Accessorize with Antique and Vintage Jewelry

Antique jewelry can transform a simple outfit into a statement. Look for vintage brooches, Art Deco earrings, or Victorian lockets when browsing antique fairs or estate sales. I found a stunning 1940s carved Bakelite bracelet at Brimfield this year that now lives on my wrist almost daily.

Styling Tip: Use vintage pins or brooches to cinch a scarf or to decorate a plain blazer. You’ll get compliments—and you’ll know you’re wearing a one-of-a-kind, collectible antique.

4. Prioritize Quality Fabrics and Tailoring

One of the best parts about styling thrifted fashion is the quality you’ll find in true vintage pieces. Think silk blouses, wool skirts, and hand-sewn embellishments. Unlike many fast-fashion garments today, these older pieces were made to last.

If something doesn’t fit perfectly, invest in tailoring. Just like antique furniture restoration brings life back to a worn chair, a good tailor can be a small expense for adding a one-of-a-kind staple gem to your wardrobe. 

5. Support Local Antique Dealers and Thrift Shops

When you shop at local antique stores, thrift shops, and estate sales across New England, you’re not just buying clothes—you’re supporting the preservation of material culture. You’re also contributing to sustainable fashion by giving beautiful garments a new life.

Where to Look:

• Brimfield Antique Show (Brimfield, MA) – Three times a year, a must-visit for collectors.
• Estate sales in coastal Massachusetts towns – Especially rich in vintage fashion treasures.
• Independent antique stores in Vermont and New Hampshire – Often overlooked, but full of hidden gems.
  

  

Why Vintage Fashion Matters for Collectors

Just like antique ceramics or collectible art, thrifted vintage fashion is part of the larger story of decorative arts and material culture. Wearing a vintage dress isn’t just a fashion statement—it’s a living piece of history, a tribute to craftsmanship, and a personal connection to the collectors’ world.

So next time you find yourself wandering through the fields of Brimfield or browsing racks at your local antique shop, remember: you’re not just shopping—you’re curating a collection of beautiful, wearable history.

Join the hunt. Wear the story. Style the past into your present.