Tags & Labels

Tags and labels can be the key to unlocking the history of a vintage garment. This category provides guides on how to identify clothing brand tags and labels from different time periods. By examining the typography, logo design, and other details, vintage fashion enthusiasts can determine the age, authenticity, and sometimes even the value of a piece. From iconic brands like Levi’s to rare designer labels, these guides help you become an expert at dating vintage clothing.

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How to tell if Fabiani is vintage

Alberto Fabiani, born in Rome in 1910, was one of the key figures in Italian high fashion, leaving a lasting legacy on the international stage. Hailing from a family of tailors originally based in Tivoli, Fabiani’s journey into the fashion world began as an apprentice in Paris. This experience sharpened his skills, and upon returning…
How to tell if Dorothy Schoelen is vintage

Dorothy Schoelen was a pioneer in bringing artful femininity and practical elegance to women’s fashion. Emerging from Southern California in the early 1970s, Schoelen first made her mark with the junior sportswear label *Strawberry Plant*, a playful and youthful line that captured the free-spirited essence of the decade. Over time, as fashion trends evolved, so…
How to tell if Dressbarn is vintage

Dressbarn has a rich history that spans over six decades, evolving from a small retail store into a significant player in the world of women’s fashion. The brand was founded in 1962 by Roslyn Jaffe, who saw an opportunity to cater to the growing number of women entering the workforce by offering affordable, wear-to-work clothing.…
How to tell if Dana Buchman is vintage

Dana Buchman, an iconic name in American fashion, has a rich history that spans decades, marked by innovation, classic design, and a loyal customer base. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, around 1965, Dana Buchman had an early fascination with fashion, leading her to pursue degrees from both Brown University and the prestigious St. Martin’s School of…
How to tell if Dorothy O’Hara is vintage

Dorothy O’Hara was a true visionary in the world of fashion, known for her unparalleled ability to blend glamour and practicality. Rising to prominence in the 1940s, O’Hara’s career took off in the golden age of Hollywood, where she first worked as a model before transitioning into costume design for film. Her early work in…
How to tell if Dan Millstein is vintage

Dan Millstein was a visionary figure in the world of fashion during the mid-20th century, known for his elegant designs and lasting influence on women’s luxury garments. As the head of his own coat and suit manufacturing company in New York, Millstein stood out not only for his exceptional craftsmanship but also for his foresight…
How to tell if Cynthia Rowley is vintage

Cynthia Rowley has been a standout figure in American fashion since the late 1980s, renowned for her whimsical, flirty, and adventurous designs. Born in Barrington, Illinois, Rowley’s passion for design emerged at an early age, creating her first dress at just seven years old. With an artist mother and a grandfather who designed the iconic…
How to tell if Cornelia James is vintage

Cornelia James is a name synonymous with elegance, craftsmanship, and a rich legacy in British fashion. Founded in 1946 by Cornelia Katz, a Jewish refugee who fled Austria during World War II, the brand has evolved into one of the world’s most prestigious glove makers. Starting from humble beginnings in London, Cornelia’s talent quickly garnered…
How to tell if Conte of Florence is vintage

Conte of Florence is an iconic Italian clothing brand with a rich history dating back to 1952. Founded in Florence as a small boutique called “Con.TE” (an acronym for “Confezione Tessuti Esclusivi”), the brand initially focused on creating exclusive handmade women’s clothing. Over time, this humble shop expanded into a full-fledged fashion company, embodying the…
How to tell if Clovis Ruffin is vintage

Clovis Ruffin was a pioneering figure in American fashion, rising to prominence in the 1970s with his innovative approach to sportswear. Born in Clovis, New Mexico in 1946, Ruffin’s journey took him across continents, growing up in Egypt and Europe before settling in the United States. After honing his craft at prestigious institutions like the…
How to tell if Claire McCardell is vintage

Claire McCardell is often celebrated as the woman who revolutionized American fashion, making her mark as one of the most influential designers of the 20th century. Born in 1905, McCardell’s vision for functional, elegant, and accessible clothing helped redefine the role of women’s fashion, particularly with her innovations in ready-to-wear and sportswear. At a time…
How to tell if Charles Jourdan is vintage

Charles Jourdan is a name synonymous with luxury, innovation, and timeless design in the world of fashion, particularly women’s footwear. Founded by the French shoemaker of the same name in 1919, the brand’s rise to prominence was swift, largely due to Jourdan’s dedication to quality craftsmanship and his forward-thinking approach to marketing. By the 1930s,…
How to tell if Celio is vintage

Celio, officially known as Celio* in its advertising, is a renowned French men’s clothing retailer with a global presence. Founded in 1978 by two brothers who took over their family shop in Paris, the brand quickly expanded its influence beyond the French capital. By 1985, Celio had established itself as a leading name in menswear,…
How to tell if Cathy Hardwick is vintage

Cathy Hardwick is a name synonymous with timeless elegance and modern simplicity, revered for her ability to create clothing that speaks to the confident, active woman. Born in Seoul, Korea, and immigrating to the United States in 1952, Hardwick’s background is as eclectic as her designs. After a successful early career designing knitwear in San…
How to tell if Alfred Shaheen is vintage

Alfred Shaheen, often hailed as the pioneer of the aloha shirt, revolutionized Hawaiian fashion and established a legacy that continues to resonate today. Born into a family of garment industry entrepreneurs, Shaheen’s roots in textiles were deep. His journey began in the 1940s when he took over his family’s custom garment business in Hawaii. However,…
How to tell if Alexander Julian is vintage

Alexander Julian is an American fashion designer whose impact on the fashion world spans several decades, making him a key figure in American design history. Born in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Julian was introduced to the world of clothing through his father’s menswear store, Julian’s, which opened in 1942. Though initially pursuing an English degree…
How to tell if Carroll Reed is vintage

Carroll Reed was a pioneer in the American skiing world, shaping not only the sport but also the retail landscape for ski enthusiasts in New England. Born in 1905, Reed’s early life didn’t indicate that he would become a central figure in skiing culture, but an accident while skiing in the 1930s would set him…
How to tell if Carolina Herrera is vintage

Carolina Herrera is synonymous with timeless elegance and impeccable style. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Herrera’s foray into fashion began at a young age, heavily influenced by her socialite grandmother, who introduced her to renowned fashion houses like Lanvin and Dior. Her early exposure to haute couture shaped her appreciation for refined aesthetics, a trait that…
How to tell if Carole Little is vintage

Carole Little was a pioneer in the fashion world, best known for her sophisticated yet accessible designs that resonated with working women looking for chic, affordable clothing. She and her husband, Leonard Rabinowitz, founded California Fashion Industries in 1975 with their first label, Saint Tropez West. Inspired by the effortless style she observed during her…
How to tell if Capezio is vintage

Capezio, the trade name of Capezio Ballet Makers Inc., has been synonymous with dancewear and footwear for over a century. The company’s origins date back to 1887 when Salvatore Capezio, an Italian immigrant and skilled cobbler, opened a small shoe repair shop near the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City. Initially focused on repairing…
How to tell if Bob Mackie is vintage

Bob Mackie is one of the most iconic and celebrated designers in American fashion history. Known for his flamboyant and dazzling creations, Mackie has been responsible for dressing some of the most famous entertainment icons in the world, from Cher to Diana Ross and even Barbra Streisand. His signature use of sequins, rhinestones, and bold…
How to tell if Bill Haire is vintage

Bill Haire, an influential figure in the world of American fashion, carved a name for himself through decades of creative brilliance, especially in the realm of evening wear and sportswear. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, Haire initially made his mark with glamorous evening gowns, utilizing luxurious fabrics like chiffon and satin during…
How to tell if Biba is vintage

Biba, the brainchild of Polish-born Barbara Hulanicki, first opened its doors in London during the 1960s, quickly becoming one of the most iconic fashion brands of the era. Known for its chic, affordable designs, Biba offered an exciting blend of high fashion and accessibility. Hulanicki’s vision was clear: she wanted to make stylish clothing available…
How to tell if Betsey Johnson is vintage

Betsey Johnson, born in 1942, is a legendary figure in American fashion, renowned for her bold, whimsical, and often eccentric designs. Her distinctive style blends femininity with a punk rock edge, creating garments that are as playful as they are eye-catching. Johnson’s work is characterized by over-the-top embellishments, vibrant colors, and a youthful energy that…
How to tell if Antony Price is vintage

Antony Price is a name that has been synonymous with glamour, rock ‘n’ roll, and cutting-edge fashion for over five decades. Known for his transformative designs, Price has been a defining force in fashion, shaping not only the look of high-profile celebrities but also the way the world views evening wear and tailoring. His influence…
How to tell if Anthony Muto is vintage

Anthony Muto was a visionary American fashion designer whose legacy spans decades of elegant, timeless fashion. Born in Chicago in 1934, Muto grew up surrounded by the craft of tailoring, learning the trade from his grandfather and mother. His early exposure to clothing construction laid the foundation for a career marked by both artistic creativity…
How to tell if Pacsun is vintage

Founded in 1980 by Jack Hopkins and Tom Moore in Seal Beach, California, PacSun has grown from a modest surf shop into a major force in American retail. Initially catering to the West Coast surf scene, PacSun quickly made a name for itself by offering a curated selection of surfwear from established brands. Over the…
How to tell if Nine West is vintage

Nine West, a name synonymous with chic and accessible fashion, has carved a unique niche in the world of footwear and accessories since its founding in 1983. Based in White Plains, New York, the brand’s journey began in the iconic Solow Building at 9 West 57th Street in New York City—an address that would inspire…
How to tell if Ann Summers is vintage

Ann Summers is a British retail giant, renowned for its provocative lingerie and adult toys, with a history dating back over five decades. Founded in 1970 by Michael Caborn-Waterfield, the brand was named after his secretary, Annice Summers, though she soon parted ways with the company. Over the years, Ann Summers has evolved from a…
How to tell if Alberta Ferretti is vintage

Alberta Ferretti, a prominent figure in the fashion world, has built a legacy that spans over five decades. Known for her delicate craftsmanship and feminine designs, Ferretti’s brand has become synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and timelessness. Born and raised in Cattolica, Italy, she opened her first boutique in 1968, setting the foundation for what would…
How to tell if Albert Nipon is vintage

Albert Nipon was a visionary in the world of women’s fashion, known for creating ultra-feminine, elegant designs that captured the attention of both everyday consumers and high-profile clients alike. Born in West Philadelphia in 1927, Nipon’s journey into the fashion industry was not a direct one. He began his career as an accountant before making…
How to tell if Adolph Schuman is vintage

Adolph P. Schuman was a visionary in the American fashion industry, best known as the founder of the prestigious Lilli Ann brand. Starting his business in 1933 with just a modest $800 loan, Schuman built Lilli Ann into a name synonymous with luxury, style, and craftsmanship. His success in women’s fashion quickly became evident, and…
How to tell if Adele Simpson is vintage

Adele Simpson, a trailblazing American fashion designer, left an indelible mark on the world of fashion over nearly five decades. Born Adele Smithline to Latvian immigrant parents, she began her illustrious career in New York’s bustling Garment District. Simpson’s early career saw her blending the elegance of French couture with the practicality of American ready-to-wear…
How to tell if Abe Schrader is vintage

Abe Schrader’s journey from humble immigrant to fashion mogul is a quintessential American success story, deeply rooted in the heart of the 20th-century garment industry. Born in Poland in 1900, Schrader arrived in the U.S. in 1921 with little more than ambition. His rise began in the factories of New York City, where he honed…
How to tell if Talbots is vintage

Talbots, a name synonymous with classic American style, has a rich history that traces back to the post-war era of the late 1940s. Founded by Rudolf and Nancy Talbot in the charming town of Hingham, Massachusetts, the brand started as a small venture with a simple, yet ambitious vision: to offer women timeless fashion marked…
How to tell if The Limited is vintage

The Limited is a name that resonates with generations of fashion-conscious consumers, tracing its origins back to the early 1960s. Founded by Leslie Wexner in 1963, The Limited started as a modest women’s clothing store in Upper Arlington, Ohio, and grew into a retail empire that influenced American fashion for decades. Wexner, who borrowed $10,000…
How to tell if Louis Feraud is vintage

Louis Féraud is a name that resonates with elegance, sophistication, and a deep-rooted heritage in the world of haute couture. Born in 1921 in Arles, France, Féraud’s passion for fashion and art led him to establish his first Maison de Couture in Cannes in 1950. By the mid-1950s, Féraud had firmly planted his roots in…
How to tell if Marshall Fields is vintage

Marshall Field & Company, commonly known as Marshall Field’s, was more than just a department store; it was a symbol of Chicago’s commercial power and a pioneer in the world of retail. Founded in the mid-19th century by Marshall Field, an ambitious young man from Massachusetts, the store quickly became synonymous with luxury and innovation.…
How to tell if Lane Bryant is vintage

Lane Bryant, a pioneering name in the American fashion industry, has been at the forefront of plus-size clothing for over a century. Founded in 1904 by Lena Himmelstein Bryant Malsin, a Lithuanian immigrant who defied the odds to become a successful entrepreneur, the brand was born out of necessity and innovation. Lena Bryant, a widow…
How to tell if Cato is vintage

Founded in 1946, Cato Corporation has grown from a small family business into a major player in American retail, known for providing affordable and stylish women’s fashion. The company’s journey began in Charlotte, North Carolina, where Wayland Cato, along with his sons, Wayland Henry Cato, Jr., and Edgar Thomas, opened the first Cato stores. Within…
How to tell if Estevez is vintage

Luis Estévez, a Cuban-born American designer, was a prominent figure in the fashion world from the early 1950s until his retirement in 1997. Estévez’s journey into fashion began after a brief stint at Lord & Taylor, followed by formal training at the Traphagen School of Fashion in New York. His talent and ambition led him…
How to tell if Fashionbilt is vintage

Fashionbilt Garment Company, founded in 1924 by Polish immigrant Meyer Present, is a name that resonates with vintage fashion enthusiasts and collectors alike. This Kansas City-based brand built its reputation on producing high-quality, classic women’s coats and suits that were designed to stand the test of time. From its humble beginnings, Fashionbilt quickly grew into…
How to tell if Christopher & Banks is vintage

Christopher & Banks, a brand that has stood the test of time, began its journey in 1956 under the name Brauns Fashions in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Initially catering to a demographic of women aged 40 to 60, the brand quickly established itself as a go-to destination for stylish, age-appropriate apparel. Over the decades, Christopher & Banks…
How to tell if Brooks Sports is vintage

Brooks Sports, Inc., now widely known as Brooks Running, has been a key player in the athletic footwear and apparel industry for over a century. Founded in 1914 by John Brooks Goldenberg, the company began as a modest manufacturer of bathing shoes and ballet slippers. Over the decades, Brooks evolved into a brand synonymous with…
How to tell if Bebe is vintage

Bebe, a pioneering women’s fashion brand, was founded in 1976 by Iranian-American entrepreneur Manny Mashouf. The brand quickly distinguished itself in the crowded fashion market by offering a unique blend of chic, contemporary designs that catered to the modern woman. Named after the famous soliloquy from Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” Bebe has always aimed to capture the…
How to tell if Ellen Tracy is vintage

Ellen Tracy, a brand synonymous with timeless sophistication, has a rich history that spans over seven decades. Founded in 1949 by Herbert Gallen, the company began as a humble blouse-making venture named after a label he created, believing that women’s clothing should carry a woman’s name. Gallen, whose roots in the fabric industry ran deep,…
How to tell if Athleta is vintage

Athleta is a name that resonates deeply within the world of sports, especially when it comes to association football. Founded in 1935 in Belém, São Paulo, Brazil, by the Santa Isabel Textile Manufacturing company, Athleta quickly established itself as a key player in the sporting goods industry. Originally created to produce socks and shirts for…
How to tell if Anne Klein is vintage

Anne Klein was more than just a name in American fashion; she was a trailblazer who redefined how women dressed. Born Hannah Golofsky in 1923, Anne Klein made her mark on the fashion world early in her career, first as a sketcher for Seventh Avenue dress firms and later as a key figure in the…
How to tell if Anne Fogarty is vintage

Anne Fogarty was a trailblazer in American fashion, renowned for her chic yet accessible designs that epitomized mid-20th-century elegance. Active from the 1940s through the 1970s, Fogarty carved out a niche for herself by crafting garments that combined the sophistication of haute couture with the practicality and affordability sought by the everyday woman. Her designs…
How to tell if Anna Sui is vintage

Anna Sui is a name that has become synonymous with eclectic, vibrant, and whimsical fashion. Born on August 4, 1955, Sui has carved out a unique niche in the fashion industry, with her brand expanding to include not just clothing, but also footwear, cosmetics, fragrances, eyewear, jewelry, accessories, and home goods. From the very beginning,…