The Ultimate Guide to Buying Vintage Jackets: How to Spot Quality and Avoid Fakes
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Vintage fashion is booming, and at the heart of it all sits the vintage jacket – timeless, stylish, and built to last. From 90s North Face puffers to classic bomber jackets, vintage outerwear has become a wardrobe staple for collectors, resellers, and fashion lovers alike.
But with the growing demand comes a problem: how do you know if a vintage jacket is genuine, good quality, and worth the money? At That Seller Fella we’ve helped thousands of buyers find authentic, grade-A vintage clothing that stands the test of time. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before buying vintage jackets online or in-store.
But with the growing demand comes a problem: how do you know if a vintage jacket is genuine, good quality, and worth the money? At That Seller Fella we’ve helped thousands of buyers find authentic, grade-A vintage clothing that stands the test of time. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before buying vintage jackets online or in-store.
Why Vintage Jackets Are Worth the Investment
- Unique style – You won’t find these pieces on the high street. A vintage jacket lets you stand out.
- Better quality – Older clothing often used thicker fabrics, stronger zips, and more durable stitching.
- Sustainable choice – Buying vintage reduces fashion waste and helps the planet.
- Value growth – Some jackets, like 90s Nike or North Face, actually increase in value over time.
When shopping for vintage, you’re not just buying clothes – you’re buying history. Here’s what to check:
Labels & Tags
- Look for old brand logos (e.g. The North Face Dome logo from the 90s).
- Care labels often reveal age – older items may lack modern washing symbols.
- Brands like Adidas, Nike, Patagonia, and North Face have changed logos multiple times – learn to spot the vintage versions.
Stitching & Construction
- Tight, even stitches = good quality. Loose threads or sloppy seams may signal a fake or poor condition.
- Double-stitching on zips and cuffs usually means durability.
Fabric & Materials
- Vintage leather, wool, and heavyweight cotton feel thicker than modern equivalents.
- For puffers, check the filling – goose down vs cheap synthetic stuffing.
Zips & Hardware
- YKK zips are a strong indicator of authentic, high-quality vintage jackets.
- Metal zips last longer than modern plastic versions.
Unfortunately, the popularity of vintage has led to a rise in fakes. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Too cheap to be true? It probably is. If a “vintage North Face” is listed at £20, be cautious.
- Check seller reviews – buy only from trusted resellers with proven feedback.
- Compare logos & labels online – small differences in font, stitching, or spacing can reveal a fake.
- Ask for detailed photos of tags, zips, and inside lining before buying online.
At ThatSellerFella.co.uk, every item we sell is hand-checked for authenticity – no replicas, no knock-offs.
Vintage Jacket Sizing: How to Get the Perfect Fit
Vintage sizing often differs from today’s standards. A “Medium” from the 80s may feel more like a modern Small.
Tips:
- Always check pit-to-pit measurements (armpit to armpit in cm).
- Check sleeve length – especially for American imports.
- Size up for layering – vintage outerwear was often worn oversized.
- Trusted Online Resellers – like ThatSellerFella.co.uk, where every jacket is sourced, graded, and checked.
- Vintage Stores – Brick Lane (London), Afflecks (Manchester), and Cow (Nottingham) are hotspots.
- Markets & Fairs – Depop fairs, thrift markets, and pop-ups often carry rare finds.
- Mystery Boxes – Perfect if you want a surprise mix of branded jackets at great value.
- 90s North Face Nuptse Puffer Jackets – streetwear gold, highly collectible.
- MA-1 Bomber Jackets – military style that works with almost any outfit.
- Vintage Levi’s Denim Jackets – timeless, durable, and versatile.
- Patagonia Fleeces & Jackets – outdoorsy but now fashion-forward.
- Retro Sports Jackets – Adidas, Nike, and Umbro from the 80s/90s are trending again.
- Research the brand history before you buy.
- Check grading systems (A, B, C) – Grade A = excellent condition, Grade C = more wear & tear.
- Wash and care properly – many vintage fabrics require delicate washing or dry-cleaning.
- Shop with trusted sellers – avoid disappointment with fakes or poor-quality stock.
Buying vintage jackets is more than shopping – it’s investing in style, sustainability, and culture. Whether you’re hunting a North Face puffer, a classic bomber, or a retro sports jacket, knowing how to spot quality and avoid fakes will save you money and frustration.
At ThatSellerFella.co.uk, we specialise in authentic vintage bundles, premium jackets, and mystery boxes – carefully curated so you always get the real deal. Browse our latest drops today and upgrade your wardrobe with genuine vintage style.
👉 Shop Vintage Jackets Now at ThatSellerFella.co.uk