Clothing from a previous era is commonly referred to as what?

The term "vintage clothes" specifically refers to garments that are at least 20 to 100 years old, typically embodying the fashion characteristics and styles of the time period they originated from. This label indicates that the clothing is not only old but also holds a certain cultural or historical significance that makes it desirable to collectors and fashion enthusiasts. Vintage clothes often reflect the quality and craftsmanship of their era, distinguishing them from contemporary fast fashion items.

In contrast, the other terms do not capture the same meaning or cultural significance associated with vintage clothing. "Irregulars" refer to items that may have slight defects or are not up to standard but are still functional. "Seconds" typically denote lower-quality goods that are sold at a discount, often due to minor flaws. "Markdowns" indicate items whose prices have been reduced, usually as part of sales or clearance events, and do not imply anything about the age or historical significance of the clothing. Thus, "vintage clothes" is the correct response as it directly addresses clothing from a previous era.