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Fashion Guide ROUND TOP SPONSORED PARTNER INSIDE VIEW Follow the Round Top How to Shop Vintage Like a Pro A b o u t t h e R o u n d Top Fashion Guide Round Top local Leigh Michael has been shopping and working the Round Top Antiques & Design Show for more than a decade. Vintage fashion — and fashion in general — isn't just her passion; it's part of her personality. "Vintage shopping isn't just shopping. It's a sport," Michael says. "It's treasure hunting, storytelling, and fashion as fate. I'm here to help shoppers strike gold." There's no better place in the U.S. than Round Top to find vintage clothing, accessories, and jewelry, she says — and Michael is here to help you discover hidden gems all along the antiques corridor, from Round Top to Warrenton and beyond. Here are her top tips for mastering the art of vintage fashion shopping. Know your measurements. Trying things on in a windy or hot field after walking 10,000 steps? Not always the vibe. Bring a cloth measuring tape and have your measurements in mind. Wear a simple outfit. If you are trying on, make it easy. Think fast on and off. Changing in the elements is part of the sport — dress appropriately! Don't fear stains or holes. Repeat after me: This is not a deal breaker! Most stains can be treated — dry cleaners work miracles, and patches or brooches are totally in. Personality pieces > perfect pieces. Negotiate respectfully. Kindness goes a long way. Some prices are firm, others aren't — read the room. Cash can sometimes sweeten the deal, but most vendors take cards or transfers. Research labels. The random piece you almost passed on could be worth a small fortune. A quick search can turn a cute find into a fashion history discovery. Especially in the fields! Check the details. Zippers, seams, buttons — give them a peek. Would it stop me from buying something I love? Absolutely not. But it helps to know if a little TLC is in its future. Ask for the story. Vintage is wearable history. If a vendor knows where a piece came from, listen. The story makes it even better. Giving something that has survived this long a second life is fascinating, you become part of a garment's journey. Stay open-minded. Vintage doesn't follow rules — and neither should you. Embrace wild colors, dramatic shapes, and try on things you wouldn't normally wear. If it speaks to you, let it inspire you, and run with it. Don't waste too much time deciding. There's a good chance the piece you admired won't be there if you leave it and return for it later. Hunt + dig. The best pieces are worth the hunt. Flip, dig, and look high and low. The racks and bins are full of magic waiting to be discovered. Where to follow the Round Top Fashion Guide Michael shares where to shop, what to look for, and the best fashion finds on her Facebook and Instagram @roundtopfashionguide, and TikTok @roundtopfashion. Leigh Michael, roundtopfashion@gmail.com Leigh Michael 52