The Real Deal on Vintage Sizing vs Modern Sizing: What You Need to Know Before Buying Vintage Fashion

If you love thrift shopping or vintage style, chances are you’ve heard the warnings: vintage sizing is NOT the same as modern sizing. But what does that really mean for your shopping experience, and how can you save yourself from disappointment (or pants that fit only one leg)? Inspired by TikTok creator Hayes Day’s hilarious but all-too-relatable story, let’s break down everything you need to know about vintage fashion fit, shopping online, and how to size for vintage clothing so you can rock those 70s shorts with confidence.

Why Vintage Sizing Is So Different

First off, Hayes’ story is a lesson that every vintage lover learns the hard way. The scenario: you see the perfect pair of 70s shorts (maybe you spot them in an old photograph at a thrift store, like Hayes did), hunt them down online, order your usual size—only to discover they’re nowhere close to fitting. What gives?

It comes down to a few key things:

• Sizing Standards Have Changed: A men’s 31” waist in the 70s isn’t always the same as today’s 31″. Most vintage clothes run smaller.
• Body Shapes and Fit Preferences Shifted: Back then, clothing was tailored for different “average” bodies. Garments often fit closer to the body, with less “give” or built-in stretch.
• Vanity Sizing: Modern brands often “upsize” labels to flatter customers. Today’s 32 might be closer to a vintage 34!
• Material Differences: Vintage fabrics usually don’t have the elasticity of modern blends. Denim was stiffer, waistbands didn’t stretch, and seams were unforgiving.

Hayes’ Vintage Sizing Story: A Common Pitfall

Hayes shares a classic example:

• Finds an iconic 70s photo at a thrift store featuring perfect high-waisted shorts.
• After months of searching, finds the exact style on eBay, listed as size 31.
• But Hayes is a 32 waist (“being a little skinnier cause it’s summertime”)—figures, “I could squeeze in, right?”
• Reality: “I can only fit one leg in this bitch!” The vintage 31 is drastically smaller than its modern counterpart.

Lesson: The size on the tag means little when it comes to vintage—ALWAYS upsize!

How to Buy Vintage Clothes Online (Without Sizing Regret)

I’ve been thrifting and collecting vintage since college, searching for retro Levi’s, 80s tees, and classic sportswear. I’ve made every sizing mistake in the book—so here are my tried-and-true tips for getting that perfect fit the first time:

1. Always Check Actual Measurements

• Forget what the tag says. Look for waist, hip, rise, inseam (for pants), or bust, length, shoulders (for tops).
• Use a soft tape measure to double-check your own body measurements (or measure a favorite item that fits perfectly).

2. Size Up—Sometimes by a Lot

• If you’re usually a 32-inch waist, look for at least a vintage 33-34 (or even more for non-stretch fabrics).
• For dresses, I find I sometimes go two full sizes up compared to modern brands.

3. Ask Sellers for Clarification

• Most reputable sellers expect questions about fit and will provide extra photos or measurements.
• If you’re not sure—ask if the material has any stretch. True vintage usually doesn’t.

4. Check Return/Exchange Policies

• Many online vintage shops and eBay sellers offer no returns, so be confident before you buy.
• If returns are possible, you can try riskier fits.

5. Read Reviews

• Previous buyers often comment on fit and sizing issues. These real-world experiences are gold.

6. Price vs. Fit

• Vintage pieces—especially rare ‘70s and ‘80s items—can be surprisingly expensive. Factor in possible tailoring costs, too!

7. Washing and Stretchiness

• Vintage denim and cotton will shrink after washing, especially if it’s never been washed before.
• Air dry to prevent further shrinkage (I learned this after shrinking an irreplaceable pair of 80s Wranglers!).

Why Vintage Fashion Still Rocks (Once You Nail the Fit)

Despite the frustrations with vintage sizing, the style and craftsmanship of real vintage is worth it. There’s nothing like an authentic pair of high-waisted shorts, flared jeans, or original 70s patterns to set your wardrobe apart. I love my vintage pieces for their:

• Durability: They’re made to last—sometimes needing just minor repairs.
• One-of-a-Kind Vibe: You won’t walk into a party and see three others in the same outfit.
• Sustainability: Giving old clothes new life helps the planet.

Looking for more retro fashion inspiration? Explore these nostalgia and retro ideas to find your next statement piece.

Conclusion: Hayesways, Your Ways, and Vintage Sizing Wisdom

Bottom line? When shopping for vintage, don’t trust the tag—trust the measurements. Sizing up isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a survival strategy. Be prepared that some pieces will be smaller, stiffer, and less stretchy than what you’re used to—and that’s all part of the charm.

So next time you find a dreamy 70s pair of shorts or a classic dress online, follow Hayes Day’s advice: upsize, double-check, and maybe even have a tailor on speed dial. Vintage clothing might run small, but the style payoff is BIG.

And if you need more help decoding vintage fashion fit, or want more retro outfit ideas, check out What Will Wear’s design and style archives for guides and inspiration.

Happy vintage shopping—and may all your shorts fit both legs!

@hayes.ways NOT TO MENTION THEY WERE EXPENSIVE #fyp #vintage #70s #vintagefashion #hayesways ♬ Everybody Wants To Rule The World – Tears For Fears

Tiktok transcript by Hayes Day🌤️
NOT TO MENTION THEY WERE EXPENSIVE #fyp #vintage #70s #vintagefashion #hayesways

#fyp #vintage #70s #vintagefashion #hayesways

00:00:00 --> 00:00:01
Listen to them.

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Listen to them when they say that vintage sizes are different.

00:00:04 --> 00:00:06
Vastly different than modern sizes.

00:00:06 --> 00:00:07
Well, the tag says 31.

00:00:07 --> 00:00:09
I’m 32. I can get away with this.

00:00:09 --> 00:00:11
I’m 32 ways. You know.

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I’m being a little skinnier cause it’s summertime.

00:00:13 --> 00:00:14
I can do it. It’s fine.

00:00:14 --> 00:00:16
For reference, I went to the thrift store one day,

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found this picture, framed it.

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I thought it was pretty. Look at those shorts he’s wearing.

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Aren’t they perfect? So 70s. Anyways,

00:00:23 --> 00:00:27
found them on eBay. The exact same ones I was looking for

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about since December.

00:00:29 --> 00:00:31
They’re too small. They’re 31!

00:00:31 --> 00:00:34
And they lied. I can only fit one leg in this bitch!

00:00:34 --> 00:00:35
Hello? Hello?

00:00:36 --> 00:00:40
So just be careful. Upsize whenever you’re buying Vintage.

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Trust in hayesways.

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I’m frustrated. See you later.