I do, but not too often. When I do it may be for a sentimental reason, or because I am very fond of an item with significant flaws, or for the reason that I absolutely love an item beyond what I could ever earn selling it.
Just now I took photos of what I believe is a 30s top and the second I put it on I thought uh-oh. I love this but I should sell it. Then I saw it has a couple of rust stains which are not minor, particularly if described and photographed in detail for the web.
It’s staying with me.
Years ago I photographed this 1960s raincoat from an old family friend and then I realized it was my favorite thing my friend ever wore, remembering it from decades ago. I couldn’t bear to let it go.
This early 40s dress got out of being sold by fitting me to a T...and by having a major mended tear.
I managed to ease my guilt over keeping this bright pink velvet Marguerite Rubel coat by finding another exactly the same to sell.
When I put this early 50s taffeta dress and wrap up for sale a friend of mine kept telling me DON’T SELL THAT. She was so convincing that I took down the listing for it and I’ve never regretted being talked into keeping it.
This 60s linen dress by Carlye just makes me too happy. Keeping it is cheaper than therapy, right?
I think I paid a whole dollar for this 70s polyester knit dress. Polka dots and green are a double whammy for me, and I love that I can wash the dress. I wear it all the time.
I could devote an entire post to the vintage shoes, the 1960s brightly-printed half slips, or the green hats I keep for myself. I used to sell green hats but always got a lump in my throat, so I decided I should keep them. I sold this late 40s suit, but kept the tasseled hat.
Just reading about Claire McCardell made me love her, and when I went to a huge auction and was able to win plenty of great vintage designer items to sell (including another McCardell) I decided to keep this navy silk shantung halter dress and white-lined bolero.
From the same auction, another souvenir, this one unlabeled.
And finally the 70s Patricia Lester Fortuny-like silk dress from the same auction. It has an irresistible tunic top, and tiny bag too.
And pretty soon kept an umbrella to match.
So you see how it goes for me. I’ve probably kept one in one thousand items, but a girl’s got to have something to wear!
If I change my mind about anything, I promise you’ll be the first to know!