How to wear vintage with panache.
1. One statement vintage find is enough for any outfit. Pair the vintage piece with a classic modern counterpoint, such as a simple top, pair of pants, shirt or dress.

2. A great pair of denim jeans -- flat front, mid-rise, straight-leg or boot-cut -- is the perfect complement to almost any vintage top.

3. Go easy on the accessories -- let the statement vintage piece do all the talking.

Snap it up
Before you hit the vintage pavement, here's a hit list of pieces to look for.

1. Soft, romantic, feminine blouses in sheer fabrics with ruffles or lace details.

2. Silky short-sleeved or sleeveless camisole-style tops in neutral colours.

3. Simple 1940s-style jackets and coats in solid neutral colours, such as beige, grey, black or navy. Go for bracelet-length (3/4) sleeves and standout details such as novelty buttons. Single breasted is best.

4. Classic cardigan sweaters with simple embellishments or Missoni-like patterns.

5. Full skirts.

6. Crocheted sweaters.

7. Anything embroidered.

8. Anything with lace insets or lace details, especially in white or creamy neutral shades.

9. Neutral-tone evening dresses in chiffon, silk or brocade with lace or subtle embellishments such as sequins or beads.

10. Shoes, bags and belts in gold, silver or bronze, with subtle metallic details. Faux or real reptile skin, such as snake or croc, are also hot.

11. Long beaded necklaces in soft colours.

Shop smart
1. Closely check the quality of the piece before you buy it. If there is a major flaw, such as a slew of broken seams or a noticeable stain on the fabric, forget it. A small problem, however, such as a missing button or zipper, can easily be repaired.

2. Revisit the same stores often. Vintage stores are constantly getting new stock.

3. Try things on. Sizes vary depending on designer and time period. Size eight today is not the same as it was 20 years ago.
Click here to find out how to get the perfect fit.

Canada-wide vintage store guide
If the thrill of the hunt is your shopping raison d'être, you'll like nothing better than searching out your own showstoppers at garage sales, vintage stores and antique markets. Here's where to get started.

New Brunswick
•Guy's Frenchy's, 1567 Mountain Rd., Moncton, (506) 860-6219

Quebec
•Retro Ragz, 171 Avenue du Mont-Royal Est, Montreal, (514) 849-6181

•Boutique Rétromania, 820 Avenue du Mont-Royal Est, Montreal, (514) 596-2618

Ontario
•Ex-Toggery, 115 Merton St., Toronto, (416) 488-5393

•Value Village, stores across Canada, valuevillage.com

Manitoba
•Ragpickers Anti-Fashion Emporium and Books, 216 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, (204) 942-7992

British Columbia
•Deluxe Junk Company, 310 W Cordova St., Vancouver, (604) 685-4871

•True Value Vintage Clothing, 710 Robson St., Vancouver, (604) 685-5403

•Echo-Unique Resale, 3288 Main St., Vancouver, (604) 874-5550