'vintage' is not the same as 'twee'

the internet, much like william shakespeare, has a remarkable way of transforming the english language.  take the adjective 'pretentious.'  until recently, the word was used to describe excessively unjustified statements, but after enough angry internetters (pretentiously) misused the term to mean "rude in a smart-sounding way," the online dictionaries have added a second definition to mean something along the lines of "showy and ostentatious."

nowadays, etsy, pinterest, bhldn, and modcloth have taken the internet by storm to gradually change the word "vintage."  now, i am far from a thrifting queen.  i no longer scour the hip second-hand stores for chic vintage finds the way some other amazing bloggers do.  but i've noticed over time, and when searching for a "something old" to wear at my wedding, the term "vintage" no longer means, well, "vintage."  nowadays it seems to exist as a synonym for "stylish, sentimental somewhat distressed, rustic, anthropologie-approved cute."  once upon a time, it was oxymoronic to say "make this DIY vintage brooch."  nowadays it is simply an extra word to reassure you your lacy burlap something or other is adequately precious.

alas, this post isn't so much a critique as an observation.  it's not really that hard to change my search keywords from 'vintage' to 'antique.'  still, much like one's inner child, i possess an inner senior citizen who sighs in vague disappointment when i see that we're even co-opting everyday language to better suit our throwaway culture.  want a vintage band tee shirt?  don't worry, we've got forever 21 sweat shops who can make you one for $15.80.  now get your adorable, brand new vintage chelsea crew oxfords off my lawn.