Love vintage shopping but unsure about what can be fixed and what you shouldn’t bother with. This guide will get you started:

Make sure the zip works. Don’t bother with anything with a broken zipper unless you’re a dab hand at the sewing machine or the item in question is so special it’s worth having a tailor replace the zip.

Missing buttons. A few missing buttons is common on vintage clothing but luckily it’s an easy fix. Snap up a set of vintage buttons and a needle and thread and replace the whole lot. A cute retro set can make a vintage piece even more special.

Check fade folds. Found the perfect jacket or coat but the sleeves are just too short. They can be lengthened by a tailor but before you snap it up, check there isn’t a faded area where the fabric originally faded under as it will show.

Check for stains. If the underarms are stained or discoloured put it back right away. Only bother with heavily stained pieces if the fabric is irresistible or if the garment has valuable vintage button’s or a gorgeous fur collar. If the lining is stained however, snap it up. No one else will see it.

Make room. If the perfect jacket is just a bit too tight to do up comfortable, consider moving the buttons just a centimetre or two. This can make all the difference.

Pad out. Remove shoulder pads from 80’s pieces unless you’re attending a fancy dress party. However, never remove shoulder pads from any 40’s pieces as it will completely ruin the silhouette.

Leather luck. A weathered leather jacket is great, but make sure it has no major stains. In the same vein weathered suede is sweet but dirty suede should be avoided.

Wool watch. If wool has begun to rot there’s little that can be done so take a good look before splashing out.

Forgive flaws. Small flaws such as unstitched hem or a small tear in the seam. These things can be easily fixed with a needle and thread and aren’t worth missing out on that one of a kind treasure because of