Most vintage shirts are bought online, often from a photo and a few lines of text. That works well when you know what to check. This is the checklist we would use ourselves.
Photos you should expect
- The front and back in daylight, flat or on a mannequin.
- Close-ups of the badge, the sponsor and the collar.
- The label, in focus (see how to read a shirt label).
- Any flaws: holes, stains, cracking, repairs.
If a seller cannot or will not provide these, move on.
Questions worth asking
- What is the exact season and version?
- What size is it, and what are the measurements, pit to pit and length?
- Is it a replica, player issue, match issued or match worn, and what is the evidence? Read what each term means.
- Where did the shirt come from?
- What is the return policy?
Judging the price
Prices depend on club, season, condition, rarity and provenance. A price far below the usual range for a rare shirt is a reason for caution, not for excitement. Compare several sold examples of the same shirt, and remember that condition changes the price a lot.
Signs of a fake
Poor stitching, the wrong font, a label that does not match the season and a very low price are common signs. Our guide to spotting a fake vintage shirt goes through them one by one.
Paying and shipping
Pay by a method that gives you protection, and avoid bank transfers to people you do not know. Ask how the shirt will be packed and whether it is insured. On our own shop you pay securely at checkout; see our shipping information for how orders are packed and sent.
Looking for something specific?
If you cannot find a shirt, tell us. Our want list lets you describe what you are after, and we look for it. If you have a shirt to sell, see sell your shirt.