Frequently Asked Questions
What is Penny Bear Vintage?
Penny Bear Vintage is a curated resale shop offering vintage, preloved, and occasionally new children’s clothing. Every piece is hand-selected for quality, charm, and timeless style—making it easier to dress little ones beautifully without breaking the bank.
Do you only sell vintage clothing?
No! While our pieces labeled “Vintage” are true vintage items (at least 20 years old), we also carry many modern brands.
Where is Penny Bear Vintage?
We are based in Indianapolis, Indiana.
I’m local, can I pick up my order instead of paying for shipping?
Yes! Message me through my website or Instagram DM to arrange a local pick up order.
How can you tell if an item is vintage?
Each piece is carefully researched before being added to the shop. I use many clues to determine the age of the item, including:
Brand history – When the label was founded, what years it was most popular, and if it’s still around today.
Tags & labels – Brand logos and washing instructions often changed with the decades. Union tags or “Made in USA” markings are strong indicators of older pieces.
Fabrics & construction – Natural fibers, metal zippers, covered buttons, and certain snap closures are common signs of earlier eras.
Catalogs & ads – Whenever possible, I cross-reference old brand catalogs, department store ads, or archives to confirm details.
If an exact year isn’t possible, I’ll note the closest decade or range (for example, “mid-1990s” or “early-2000s”) so you still get a sense of the history behind each piece.
How are items sized?
Vintage sizing can run differently from today’s brands. While each listing includes the tagged size, we are happy to send you the measurements of an individual item upon request. Contact us if you’d like to know more about an item!
How do I know the condition of the items?
Each piece is carefully inspected, cleaned, and described honestly. Because items are preloved or vintage, some may show light signs of wear, but anything significant will always be noted in the description. See Our Condition Standards for more information.
Are the clothes cleaned?
Yes! All items are gently laundered or steamed, depending on the fabric, and are ready to wear upon arrival. We use a hypoallergenic and fragrance-free detergent.
Can I return or exchange an item?
At this time, all sales are final. Please double-check measurements, photos, and descriptions before purchasing. If you ever have a question about an item, reach out before placing your order—I’m happy to help!
Do you ship internationally?
Currently, Penny Bear Vintage ships within the United States. International shipping may be added in the future.
What if my package gets lost in the mail?
Once your order is shipped, tracking information will be provided. Please note that I am not responsible for lost or stolen packages once they are in the hands of the postal service. If something goes missing, I recommend contacting your local post office with the tracking number to help locate it. I’ll always do my best to support you in the process, but I cannot issue refunds for packages that are marked as delivered or lost in transit.
Do you accept requests for specific items or brands?
Yes! If you’re searching for something special—like a particular brand, size, or style—send me a message. I love keeping an eye out while sourcing.
Why shop vintage and preloved?
Children grow quickly, and vintage clothing was often made with higher-quality fabrics and thoughtful details. Choosing preloved is not only budget-friendly, but also kinder to the planet—extending the life of clothes already loved.
Who runs Penny Bear Vintage?
Just me, Anja! I’m a 25-year-old mom of boy/girl twins. After becoming a mom, I fell in love with hunting for unique, well-made pieces for my little ones. This shop is my way of sharing the joy of nostalgic, timeless kids’ clothes with other families who appreciate the magic in the little details.
How can I stay updated on new arrivals?
Follow along on Instagram @pennybearvintage for shop updates and behind-the-scenes peeks!