Judge the garment in front of you
Inspect fabric, seams, lining, fastenings, hems and high-friction areas in daylight. Identify repairs, alterations, fading, pilling and marks without assuming age alone determines quality. Check the care label and fibre content. A well-kept older piece may offer more life than a recent garment with weak construction.
- Turn pockets and cuffs outward during inspection
- Test every zip, hook, button and tie
- Describe patina separately from damage
Make fit understandable
Record the labelled size and garment measurements using a consistent method. Describe silhouette, rise, stretch, shoulder structure and intended ease. Compare measurements with a similar garment rather than a body-size chart alone. Clear fit information respects the next wearer and reduces the temptation to hide uncertainty behind ‘true to size’.
- Measure flat and state whether a value is doubled
- Include waist, chest, hip, length and rise where relevant
- Mention alterations that changed original proportions
Style the piece into the present
Show how the garment can work with current basics, shoes and layers rather than presenting it as a costume from its era. Photograph true colour, full shape and useful details. If selling or sharing, clean only according to the label and price or describe condition honestly. The edit should help someone imagine real wear, not manufacture scarcity.
- Create one casual and one elevated combination
- Use neutral daylight and an uncluttered background
- Keep original labels and repair notes with the garment
Questions, answered.
What counts as acceptable preloved condition?
That depends on the wearer and intended use. The essential standard is accurate disclosure: describe and photograph wear, repairs, alterations and faults clearly so someone can decide whether the garment’s remaining life suits them.