Authenticating suits from Goodwill

[cgab1]

Hello to all,

How does one tell if a suit is from the 30s or 40s? I shopped for one at Goodwill today and came across some interesting pieces, but I wasn't sure if they were truly vintage or not.

Cgab

 

[Dinerman]

Some general things to look for, but most of it is just having handled or seen enough to get an eye for what's truly vintage and what's not.

skeleton lined (the back is not lined- just the sides, and the seams are taped in fabric matching the lining)
Union tag style
Maker label style
overall cut- higher button stance, higher armholes, shorter jacket, nipped waist, high waisted trousers, etc.
the fabric usually has a certain feel to it, different than later fabrics.

 

[Lefty]

Look for the union tags. Read the sticky thread at the top of this forum for all the details.

 

[resortes805]

Refer to this thread:
http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?t=34646