The following are measured across the garment while flat, and are DOUBLED:
Bust/Chest: taken across widest part of chest, usually directly under the arms.
Waist: the smallest part
Hips: the widest part

The following are measured while the garment is flat and are NOT DOUBLED:
Shoulder: measured across, from shoulder seam to shoulder seam
Inseam: Along the inside seam of pants/shorts
Rise: On shorts or pants, this is the length from the "crotch seam" to the waist band.

The following are measured while the garment is hanging and are NOT DOUBLED:
Length: taken from collar seam to bottom hem
Sleeve: taken from center of neck to cuff hem
Torso Length: from collar seam to "crotch" seam (in rompers/bathing suits) or natural waist (in dresses)

Each listing provides an estimate of modern sizing (small, medium, large, etc). This information is meant to help narrow your search. Please use the measurements provided in each listing to ensure best fit.

Women's numeric dress sizing has changed many sizes over the past 60+ years, and continues to vary among contemporary brands. Your contemporary dress size is of little use when shopping for vintage.

When we provide a Vintage Label Size, it is a resource for individuals who know their vintage size, which has changed dramatically over the years (sometimes as much as 6 sizes). Please refer to your own measurements when shopping vintage, not an arbitrary dress size.

All Second Skin Vintage garments are lovingly hand washed (when possible) before going out for sale.

How To Care For Your Vintage Garment
Believe it or not, your vintage garment is actually pretty sturdy.
1) Almost all fabrics can get wet and therefore can be washed
(Some exceptions, like 1920s/30s rayon)
2) Use Delicate/Handwash cycle and cold water
2) Hang or lay flat to dry. Do not use dryer. (Laying flat is best for heavier garments or sweaters).
3) Colorful cotton garments from '60s and 70s: prevent color bleed by washing separately by hand with a tablespoon of vinegar and detergent
4) We use regular laundry detergent
Please do not hesitate to ask if you have questions, we want to help preserve sartorial history!

Second Skin Vintage uses the following guidelines, based on standards set by the Vintage Fashion Guild:

Mint: An item is as perfect and pristine as when it was originally made and shows no sign of wear (mint condition is rare for vintage clothing).

Near mint: An item shows only the slightest signs of wear.

Excellent: An item shows typical signs of wear due to occasional use.

Very good: An item is considered wearable but has some surface flaws (staining or soiling, for example).

Good: An item is wearable but cannot be returned to excellent condition even if repairs are made.

All items ship within 1-3 business days. Expect to receive your package within 5-7 days, if not sooner.

Expedited shipping usually available for all items. Please message shop BEFORE purchase so we can change the shipping cost for you.
If we haven't confirmed this request before purchase, you request cannot be honored.

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING: send us a message and we will change the shipping option for you.

Second Skin Vintage gladly accepts returns of items in same condition as sold, with attached tags, within 30 days of purchase.

Refund does not include any shipping costs.

Buyer responsible for return shipping.

Please message the shop before returning item.

Second Skin Vintage must receive the item and ascertain its condition before issuing a refund. Signs of wear beyond fitting will be grounds for refusal of refund.

We buy and restore true vintage clothing and accessories in any condition. We look for in-season items from the 1950s, ‘60s, ‘70s and older. We are not a consignment shop; instead we pay competitive, estate sale prices.

If you are interested in letting go, please drop off your clothing during store hours. Your clothing needs to be off the hanger and folded in a shopping bag. We will contact you in 2 business days to let you know if we’re interested in buying any of your pieces. Afterwards, you have two weeks to pick up your check and/or your remaining items.