Debunking the myth: Were people really smaller in the past?

Ah, the age-old question: “Why are vintage clothes so much smaller than modern clothes?” Many folks assume it’s because people back then were simply tinier, but if you’ve ever seen a family photo from the past, you already know great-aunt Nancy wasn’t that tiny, and neither was everyone else.

Hand-me-downs and alterations

One significant factor in the sizing story is the practice of hand-me-downs. Back in the day, larger clothes were often repurposed or altered to fit smaller people, especially within families. Think about it: if an older sibling outgrew a beloved dress, it might have been adjusted to fit a younger sibling rather than being discarded. This means many vintage pieces you come across may have originally started as larger sizes before being tailored down to fit someone smaller.

Closet confessions: The “someday” syndrome

Another reason for the prevalence of smaller vintage clothing is what we like to call the “someday” syndrome. Many people hold onto clothes that are too small with hopes they’ll fit into them again someday. We’ve all been there, right? That cute dress you swore you’d fit into after a New Year’s resolution or that pair of jeans that just needs “one more month.” These items often linger in closets for years, leading to a treasure trove of smaller sizes in the vintage market.

Changing trends and styles

Let’s not forget that fashion trends play a crucial role in this conversation. Each era has had its own aesthetic and body ideals. For instance, the flapper dresses of the 1920s celebrated a more boyish silhouette, while the 1950s introduced more defined waistlines. These changing trends influenced what was considered “desirable” and shaped the sizes produced by designers.

Our commitment to inclusivity

At Time To Waste, we celebrate all body types by offering inclusive sizes ranging from XXS to 5XL. Sometimes this means we’ll add some modern pieces with vintage-inspired styling to our collection, ensuring that powerful bodies have a powerful selection of clothing to choose from. We believe that everyone should feel fabulous in what they wear. And if you find a vintage piece that doesn’t fit quite right? Don’t hesitate to use a tailor! Altering clothing can provide a perfect fit, allowing you to showcase your unique shape and style with confidence.