Vintage Clothing Definitions

Here are some of the most common terms used in vintage clothing:

Vintage — Clothing generally 20+ years old. In 2026, that usually means clothing from 2006 or earlier.
True Vintage — An authentic item actually produced during the era it represents, rather than a modern reproduction.
Retro — Newer clothing designed to look like it came from an earlier decade. It does not necessarily mean the item is old.
Reproduction / Repro — A modern-made copy or recreation of an older garment, graphic, or style.
Deadstock — Older merchandise that was never sold or used and has generally remained unworn, often with original tags or packaging.
New Old Stock (NOS) — Older inventory that was never used or sold to a consumer. Similar to deadstock.
Pre-Owned / Secondhand — Previously owned clothing. It can be vintage, but age isn't required.
Single Stitch — A construction method commonly associated with older T-shirts where the sleeve or bottom hem has one visible row of stitching. It's a useful dating clue, not proof by itself that a shirt is vintage.