VINTAGE SIZE GUIDELINES
Care is taken in accurately measuring each garment sold in the Desert Belle Vintage LLC Shop. Please note that vintage sizing is different from today’s modern sizing.
To help our customers determine their perfect fit, we measure the Bust, Waist and Hips on each article of clothing sold through our shop. We take measurements while the item is laying flat and un-stretched. Each item’s listing includes measurements to help shoppers find their ideal fit.
When determining and measuring for fit, please compare the item’s measurements to your own measurements to ensure the garment will work for you. A soft measuring tape is perfect for measuring the bust, waist and hips to help determine fit. Do not hesitate to contact us at hello@desertbellevintage.com should you have ANY questions about sizing on a garment. We are always happy to help and love answering questions!
Desert Belle Vintage records each item’s posted measurements in the below fashion – no pun intended! ☺ As mentioned above, all measurements are taken while the item is laying flat and un-stretched.
DRESSES & SKIRTS
● Dress Length is measured from top of shoulder to hem.
● Skirt Length is measured from waistband to hem.
● Waist is measured across where an average waist falls, then doubled.
● Bust is measured from underarm to underarm across the chest, then doubled.
● Hips are measured across where an average hip falls, then doubled.
BLOUSES & COATS
● Arm length is measured from shoulder seam to hem of wrist.
● Bust is measured from underarm to underarm across the chest, then doubled.
● Length is measured from top of shoulder to hem.
● Waist is measured across where an average waist falls, then doubled.
We have supplied a general apparel size chart below. As indicated, this chart is for general sizing only. Please pay close attention to the specific garment measurements listed in each item’s listing to determine appropriate fit.
VINTAGE CONDITION GUIDE
Desert Belle Vintage offers crème de la crème vintage clothing. That being said, please keep in mind that unless an item is described as “unworn” or “deadstock,” vintage clothing is pre-worn, and as a result, will show some minor wear.
Many of the garments we offer for sale are over 60 years old. Desert Belle Vintage treats each and every one of our vintage garments like the rare and exceptional “works of art” that they are. We meticulously care for all of our pieces and give careful attention to the preservation of each item. Each garment is thoroughly examined before sale to make sure it is wearable for its new owner. Buttons, seams, hems, zippers and embellishments are checked. We are very picky, and if an item does not make the cut, then it is not offered for sale.
Desert Belle Vintage writes a detailed condition report to accompany each item’s listing in the Shop. Condition reports accompany each item to note any flaws including but not limited to bead loss (if applicable), holes, repairs and stains. All items sold through Desert Belle Vintage are professionally, specialty dry cleaned or cleaned by hand with the exception of certain unworn, deadstock pieces and pieces that are very delicate or very old. Spot cleaning is completed on a case-by-case basis for delicate items. The condition report notes when an item has been cleaned. Professional restoration is completed to prolong the life of individual garments only when necessary, and if an item has been restored in any way, the restoration is noted in the included condition report. Please pay close attention and review each item’s condition report BEFORE purchase. We are always happy to send additional images for an item or help with any condition and/or sizing questions before purchase.
On the rare occasion that we list an item in “Good” or “Fair” condition, we are listing that item because it is a remarkably rare piece with a collectible value and perfect for possible study and/or display.
While each item’s condition report will be specific to that particular garment and include notes regarding, for example, any flaws or restoration, a general condition report is below to summarize what Desert Belle Vintage means when describing something as in “Mint,” “Excellent,” “Very Good,” “Good” or “Fair” condition.
CONDITION RATING DESCRIPTIONS
MINT: Virtually no wear. May be unworn or deadstock (unsold vintage inventory). A rare find!
EXCELLENT: Some expected signs of wear, with consideration of the age, but hardly noticeable.
VERY GOOD: Shows normal signs of wear expected for age with minor, visible flaws that may need attention prior to wearing.
GOOD: Item is overall intact but has apparent flaws. Item may require mending and/or cleaning.
FAIR: Has significant flaws that may be restorable. Item is suitable for study or design inspiration.