Is it really worth it? Why buy Designer clothes?

How often have you checked the tag and thought …. Is there really a legit reason to spend this much money on something? My body says yes, my self image, my friends, my heart but my brain says no!… Practically my whole week’s grocery bill on a pair of gorgeous Giorgio Armani suede espadrilles with cursive logo on nappa leather (take a deep breath) or these beauties.  You can see I’m not very good at convincing myself that it’s not worth it.

Recently, I read a recommendation to set a good spending minimum on your purchases. That’s right, not a spending cap, but an amount that you will start at. Just enough to make you think twice, it suggested, in order to make sure that it’s not so easy to buy. That way you make better decisions on things that you really want. For example, I just saw a blog post on an amazing Ralph Lauren frayed cashmere sweater, for about $400. Still considering that one.

The fashion industry is basically divided into two sectors for both men and women, there are high quality clothing high end brands and low quality, mass produced brands. So a piece of clothing from one cheap fashion brands shop is going to be the same product from another cheap clothes shop. But that Louis Vuitton or designer italian brand, will be produced in much smaller quantities, often handmade and checked for high quality content. Fabrics, stitching, patterns and exclusivity all play into the price tag. See the list below for top 5 tips.

Now, you don’t have to go to the most expensive clothing brand. It doesn’t even mean you have to buy expensive clothes at full retail. You can still save money and buy quality product. The good thing about expensive designer clothing is that it is timeless. Luxury brand items can be worked into any wardrobe or style. So why not make your basics top quality that will be in your line up for life? Why not love your clothes instead of like them?

As a fashion blogger, my focus is on bringing the best content marketing. I always prefer quality over quantity. There is nothing like the smell of hand stitched leather goods or lush alpaca knits. And you can be sure they won’t fall apart! So the bottom line is that if you buy a lot of cheaper clothing, you’ll end up throwing away most of it anyway. Choosing to invest in good quality clothing and other products is a wise decision for future.

When you put on a piece of high quality clothing it not only feels better but tends to make you look better. Wearing something you feel good about gives you confidence and is noticeable on the outside. I can remember times where I’ve settled for a cheap t-shirt and literally I wanted to take it off, cut it, stretch it out, all day. Or that high end suncare line that protects while feeling light and non-greasy makes all the difference when spending a day in the desert.

It may seem odd but it’s just a fact. What you wear definitely affects your mood and self esteem. So when it matters, like a job interview or first date, don’t skimp! Treat yourself and it will pay off. In other words, are designer brands worth it? The answer is yes.

Ok, ready, set, start your search engines….

Here are 5 tips to help you know if you are getting high quality products:

1. Natural Fabrics

Quality and natural fabrics equal high end products.

If the fabric is synthetic i.e. polyester, plastic, pleather, etc. then it will not be a long lasting or usually comfortable wear. Cotton, linen, cashmere, silk and wool will breathe, drape well and stand the test of time.

2. Quality merchandising

On zippers (should be metal) and buttons (well stitched and secure)

3. Stitching

Should be straight, strong and finished on all seams, hems, pockets, lining and even labels.

4. Details

Extra finishes like spare buttons, soft or silky lining on inside, waistband, pockets, etc. are always a good sign of quality and handmade production.

5. Detailed sewing on the inside and out

Patterns and cuts on high end products are well done and finished with plenty of fabric to match designs and have a good fit. There are lots of “corners cut” with mass production and sometimes not even enough fabric for it to be comfortable.

In all, it is better to save and wait to buy a quality piece of clothing, accessory or beauty product, in order to have something you can be proud to own and will last. Giving in to impulse buying just because it’s a good deal or on sale is a waste and not a good habit.

One of my favorite things to do is to clean out my closet each season to make room for new treasures. I find that what stays in my closet throughout the seasons are my high end purchases. The clothing that still looks good after years of wear and I can’t live without. It’s always a good test.