I’m not a blogger who frequently shares amazing finds at low prices. That’s just not my gift. I do know many influencers who seemingly stumble upon great deals and always have a few at the ready to share. But I bring a different gift to the table. My “quality radar” is pretty keen. Much to some of my readers’ chagrin, that does mean that I often share items at a higher price point than some care to spend. But let’s put the price tag aside just for today and have an honest discussion about the importance of quality clothing, especially for the woman over 50.
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Throughout today’s post about quality clothing, I am indeed modeling one of those pricey outfits. Quality DOES NOT have to cost a lot. But I’d still like for us to look at this outfit as an example of my points. I don’t apologize for showing higher price points sometimes since they generally are the better example of where great quality intersects with modern style. The good news is that I do have a Kay’s Look for Less available at the bottom of the post. And it’s a good one!
Why is Quality More Important Over 50?
There’s nothing magical about the number 50, of course. But quality does indeed become more important as we age. When we are younger, it somehow seems appropriate to wear clothes that seem a little experimental, almost disposable. Youth is a plausible excuse for many less than wise decisions, so the eye of the beholder reconciles these choices when we wear things like mismatched seams, long stitches, fraying button-holes and bland colors.
But when we are older we are supposed to also be a little wiser, a little more experienced and savvy. So when we wear clothes that bear tell-tale signs of poor quality, we look as though we haven’t “grown up enough” to know the difference. There’s a disconnect at best, a poor representation of our maturity, intellect and competence at worst.
That’s not to say that we always have to wear the best quality to be taken seriously at our age. But it does mean that we might want to put a little more thought into our purchases and what we choose to wear when it really counts.
What are the Marks of Good Quality?
I produced a YouTube video about How to Identify High Quality Clothing in which I explain, fairly comprehensively, the marks of good quality. So I’ll not go over all those details here. Definitely watch the video if you need information about how to spot quality clothing.
Good quality clothing is made from beautiful fabric. The fabric should have a nice hand (feel to the touch), it should have a beautiful drape (hang from your body in a pleasing way), it should wear on your body nicely and it should keep its shape with wear. Often when you pay more for clothing you’re paying for the fabric. They’ve made the garment in fabric featuring a lovely hand, a flattering drape, the perfect amount of stretch and structure, long-lasting dyes, deeply pigmented colors and aesthetically pleasing patterns. As you can imagine, those are details that cost a pretty penny. And the more of those boxes that a garment checks, the more it costs to produce it.
Why Does Quality Cost More?
Whether we’re talking about clothes or accessories, quality costs more for several reasons. The materials used are often more costly: natural fiber fabrics produced with all the details mentioned above, accents such as nice buttons and other embellishments, and hardware that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. But you’re also usually paying for fine craftmanship rather than mass production. Sure the garment may have been made with some assembly line procedures, but there are probably also handsewn or knitted details.
You also pay more for slow fashion features such as responsible shipping and manufacturing procedures, fair wages and benefits for employees, and responsibly sourced materials. And finally, you pay more for details, things like French seams on the inside (these are double folded seams so you don’t see any raw edges of fabric and everything lays beautifully), expert topstitching, pristine corners and pleats and tucks, perfect button-holes and well-placed pockets that lay nicely inside.
But let’s face it, sometimes you’re also paying for things like a “vibe” that is associated with an elite brand. I personally don’t care for wearing a lot of labels, especially if they are dominant on the garment or accessory. But those labels do sometimes elicit a high price. And even if a garment or accessory doesn’t have a visible label, if you buy it from a top-tier brand – like Veronica Beard or Julie Vos (both featured here) – you are going to pay more for it simply because they have chosen to price their selections higher.
Can You Get Quality at a Lower Price?
So can you shop within your clothing budget and still afford good quality clothing and accessories? Yes, I believe you can. Here at Dressed for My Day I like to share a fairly wide range of price points to fit most budgets. I do not believe you have to buy a Veronica Beard dress in order to have a high quality dress.
I believe that shopping for quality clothing requires more savvy and discretion than money. If you want to wear high quality clothing you have to:
- know what to look for and take the time to look for it.
- shop where you can afford to shop, but be very particular about what you buy.
- be vigilant about looking for quality over buying out of convenience.
- curate a smaller wardrobe that is stocked with pieces you can wear in multiple ways and for multiple occasions.
- stay abreast of sales and special offers that help you spend your money more wisely.
- keep and wear your quality purchases longer and more frequently.
Why Has Quality Declined at My Favorite Retailers?
Whether you shop at resale shops or Lands’ End or Quince or Talbots or Veronica Beard, I encourage you to look for quality and settle for nothing less. You may have noticed that the quality level of some of your favorite brands has actually decreased in recent years. You’re not imagining things. Some brands are really struggling to satisfy their loyal customer’s desire for quality balanced with the price point they are willing to pay.
The truth is, the cost of living has gone up significantly in recent years. If the price of fuel, groceries, shipping, raw materials and wages go up, then the cost of clothing (which is affected by all of those things) has to go up, too. But if a retailer’s customer base isn’t willing to pay more for their goods than they did a few years ago, then that retailer may try to “negotiate” with the customers by providing slightly (at first) less quality at the same price. Thus you notice quality going down where once you could find finer garments and accessories. We the customers are the ones who ultimately decide if this suits our needs or not: we can pay the same price we did a few years ago and get less quality or we can demonstrate, by paying a little more for high quality, that we prefer a higher standard at a fair but higher price.
I think many of our favorite brands are in that stage of “negotiation” with their customer base right now. I don’t think we get their attention by “yelling at them” in the comment feed on their website. Instead we have to join in the negotiation with our purchasing decisions. Ultimately these businesses listen more to what you say with your purchases than what you say in their comment feed.
Those are my thoughts on quality and the importance of it over 50. I’d love to hear from you today in the comment feed as well. Thanks so much for visiting Dressed for My Day today. I’ve shared my Kay’s Look for Less below.
I’ve selected a few different dresses that are very similar to the one I’ve shown from Veronica Beard, but I’ve only shown one of them above. These are all good quality dresses. I have the one from J.Crew shown above in white, and it’s beautiful. You can shop the different dresses and the accessories HERE.
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Blessed for My Day
Is it wise to insist on good quality when we’re making our clothing purchases? Isn’t that wasteful to spend so much on high quality clothing? I think the rub comes when we try to accommodate our desire for both quantity and quality. We are a people who are accustomed to more, bigger and many. Our flesh desires to accumulate more and more, and then we are left with less than but more of it.
I don’t mean to stretch the teachings of the Bible to cover today’s topic. But I have been noticing, specifically as I’ve read through the Pentateuch in recent months, that God insists on high quality over and over. But I never see Him promise “lots of stuff” just for the joy of accumulating things. In fact, when the people cried out for more variety in their diets than manna (which tasted like Nilla Wafers, by the way), He gave them so many quail they became sick of it. If we will learn to be satisfied with the very good and excellent things, even if they are fewer in number, then we will discover the benefit of having fewer but better. I just have a feeling that our desire for more is one that frequently keeps us from enjoying the best.
You shall speak to all the skillful people whom I have endowed with the spirit of wisdom, that they make Aaron’s garments to consecrate him, that he may serve as priest to Me. ~ Exodus 28:3
Kay, I agree buying quality pieces of clothing saved money in the long run, especially when buying classics. As a girl with long legs and arms, it was difficult to get well-fitting clothes when I was growing up. Fortunately, my mother was a talented seamstress who made many of my clothes. They fit appropriately, had matching stripes or plaids, and were lined where needed. Knowing what to look for helps. I recommend your video to those who need to know. Thank you for your advice!
I completely agree. My circumstances as a girl were similar to yours, which in turn, inspired me to sew for myself, and to pass those sewing skills (and the love of sewing, quite frankly) along to my adult daughter. For a very long time, particularly during the “dress for success” days, I made all of my own clothes so that I could dress professionally, while continuing to work in jobs that were great, but could not help me reach my desire for quality, style and elegance. I say all of that to say quality is paramount, and as Kay has pointed out, it truly makes a difference!
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I would rather have fewer items in my closet that are good quality. Fewer items makes it easier for me to get dressed each day and the good quality I feel actually isn’t that much more expensive in the long run because things last longer. If there is a trend I would like to try I do look for a cheaper version just to see if it is going to fit my lifestyle before I invest in a higher priced item.
Good food for thought, Kay! As someone who used to sew a lot, I learned about quality fabric and garment construction and proper fit many years ago. I feel strongly that quality wins over quantity every time. My frustration is in the fact that I wear only petite sizes (at least 95% of the time). I’m a true petite in proportions and petite sizing fits me so much better and looks so much better on than standard sizes. Proper fit for me is more than just having a standard sized garment altered or shortened. This limits the retailers I can buy from. One just has to be a savvy and discriminating shopper to find garments that meet all the criterea: quality in fabric and construction, proportions, flattering personal colors, reasonable care requirements and ethically made, It’s limiting! And time consuming!
For me, one of the things I look for as a sign of quality is plaids matching at underarm seams. Last year, I purchased a plaid linen shirt from one of the lines I saw here. It was not cheap, but I was definitely disappointed in the quality. Now, I am very cautious about buying from that company.
I have started buying better quality items in the last 2 or 3 years. Have added a piece here and there as my budget allows and items on sale if possible. I just ordered 2 items from J McLaughlin when they had their sale last week I like their clothes. Good quality Also have ordered a new blouse from Frank & Eilee. Received in the mail last week. Have ordered items from them last Spring and Summer. I believe that you can tell quality. Well-made and will wear the pieces for years to come Have cleaned my closet of some of the less quality items to make room for them. I don’t go real top end because not in my budget, but the dress is cute and they one from J Crew looks very nice. Enjoyed the BFMD.
In the past few years I’ve begun paying closer attention to the fabric content in my clothing purchases. The fabric really makes a difference in how the outfit feels on the body and fits.
Thanks, Kay! It’s a process for sure learning wisdom in purchases. As a young mom I didn’t have time to try things on and would just buy it because it was on sale and I was in a hurry. Now, I still don’t take time for try one because I live so far away from retail stores, but blogs like yours and your modeling helps a lot!
I agree quality is generally worth the price we pay. You look so nice in the dress you wore today. I think we all need to remember that quality doesn’t also mean quantity. Thanks for all of your suggestions
I needed this post today! I had just tried on 2 pairs of chinos, received yesterday. The size was right, but the pockets gape. I had thought, “Well, ok.” Then read the quality post and put them back in the package for return. Trying to be more careful about quality. Thanks so much!
Quality???? For me it’s a feeling. Whether it’s the soft touch on the hangar, the drape on the mannequin, the balance in the print or the flat felled seams, I believe you just know it. I have those few items I’ve paid much more for than I might have previously and I have some beautiful quality items that I’ve found at a bargain. I wear them often and each time they just feel “good” and so I wear them more often. I’m learning that if I don’t get that “feeling”, I don’t take it home. It seems discipline even in our 70’s is still a process!
Fabulous topic! My mom always said “cheap is expensive”. She taught me how to identify quality. She was also a talented seamstress and sometimes sewed our clothing. Anyway, I do have a clothing budget that I (mostly) stick to. But I do allow myself an occasional, very thoughtful splurge. I think about the item’s versatility, how it’s made, where it’s made, how it feels, fabric, color, etc. and what items I Can’t buy bc of the splurge. I don’t think every expensive item is made well. Conversely, I do think most inexpensive items are not made well…probably with the exception of sale items. I once had an interior designer tell me “no one buys all expensive items, and you don’t have to. If you buy nice quality basics and low quality accessories, that’s what it will look like. But if you mix it up, like splurge on a lamp but cut back on a chair that’s not used often, that’s how you trick the eye.” I think the same principle applies to our wardrobe.
Well said Kay! When I was younger I remember my older sister being annoyed when we were out shopping because patterns didn’t match at the time I don’t care so long as it was cute. Now I care, we have more fun now because we are checking seams and stitching looking at fabric content and almost everything on your list. We don’t come home with a lot but when clothes are well made you don’t need as many. It’s hard to know quality when you online shop. Any tips beyond being prepared to do a lot of returns.
Great post today. A smaller wardrobe of quality clothing is much better than a bunch of cheap, random pieces. You end up with “nothing to wear” in that situation. I’ll admit I always shop the sale rack first to save money, but still maintain a quality purchase.
Very good advice on the post and devotional. I’m glad you addressed that quality is not what it used to be. I see comments and YouTube videos about that a lot. What you said about the reason makes sense. I am willing to pay more for shoes because I don’t like my feet to hurt. I do look for natural fibers in clothing. I don’t mind polyester blends but I am not willing to pay 100 dollars for anything all polyester or faux leather. I like the black dress with the cognac accessories.
I have learned so much from reading your blogs and now I do shop for better qualiy. I wait for sales. I have started looking at seams, matching patterns, etc, and I have certainly noticed a difference in how the clothes I am now choosing look and wear in a more flattering way. Now I only shop for less expensive items when I know they are a trend and won’t be around too long.
Great post, I agree whole heartedly. I understand the frustration of expecting a certainly quality and price-range at a favorite retailer, and then finding quality is going down as prices go up. Your reasoning is spot on. I worked in retail for 12 years at a JJill and saw them try to stay in business during those Covid years. I feel they have stayed the course with quality even as customers complained about higher prices. It’s hard for retail companies to stay in business. Thanks, Kay.
Blessed for my day is excellent today. You’re not stretching it, we become slaves to all that stuff we buy.
I really like this post! I have been trying this last year to be more careful when I buy any new item for my closet. I do not have much for summer but will try and get the basics to get my going. Thank you Kay for all the help thru this journey.
I agree with all of what you said. I think it takes time to realize what all goes into making quality clothing. Thanks for explaining it so well.
Great tips.
This is a struggle for me and something I need to work on. I appreciate your explanation.
This, too, is something I have thought more and more about the older I get. I do not have the budget for manufacturers like VB or F&E, but I have stuck with some of the better quality more accessible brands like Talbots and Lands’ End, or made purchases from good department stores like Nordstrom, Macy’s or Dillard’s. I try to buy clothing that is the best quality I can find for my money and I take good care of each item so I can get many years of use out of them. I would agree with having fewer but better quality clothing. People do notice quality.
It is usually a good idea to get the best you can because the clothing will last longer and look better, as you point out. “Buy once, cry once,” as they say. Women in many parts of the world today have much more clothing than in the past – the closets in my circa 1926 house were quite small because people back then just didn’t have that much to put in them! Everyone in my family knew how to sew and the emphasis for those who went through the Depression was finding things that would last. Humans crave novelty, however, and the vast quantities of affordable clothing have resulted in us buying more than we can reasonably use. One of my father’s quotes was, “The gates of hell are never full because the eyes of man are never satisfied.” I would characterize “hell” in that quote as a state of unease, where you are always trying to get more, whether or not you need it, because everything is appealing, such as when everything on the menu looks good! It is hard not to want everything when “everything” is new and pretty and chic! I hope that if I make good choices and buy clothing that makes sense for me and is for the longer run, I will have more resources left to share with others who are not in a good situation. I think some brands need to be careful – I purchased two sweaters at a Talbot’s “outlet” at the end of last season which looked good but turned out to be very poor quality. I felt that they cheapened their brand by apparently having lesser-quality items at a lower outlet price point and was very careful when I recently purchased two pairs of pants at the regular Talbots store.
You are soooo correct! I witnessed quality in a couple denim jeans I purchased from FRAME.They were highly recommended. I’m not one to spend over $200 a pair. But I thought I can always return them! They were having a 25% off sale & I purchased 2 different styles. My goodness! Talk about Touch/Feel. This denim is devine! So soft, lays perfectly & holds its shape for several days! However one pair needs hemmed as it was way too long for me 5’7”. And I had to take it to a tailor for additional charge. I’ve not seen you try this brand and I think you should check them out. Someone said “they are the only pair you need”!
However, I’m not about to spend $500 for a dress & $300 for a pair of sandals because it’s not an everyday item for me. I’ll step down a level.
Thank you Kay. I love all your posts.
Thanks for sharing Peggy. I do indeed like and wear Frame denim. My preferred denim is Paige, simply because it fits and wears the best for me. But I love Frame, too.
You look smashing and elegant in that dress and those accessories. Your post is “right in the money,” no pun intended. Interesting that several people who learned to sew young (as I did) have an appreciation for clothing construction and value. Also, so glad you pointed out that we “vote” with our $ when we select lesser quality over better from a given retailer. Comments to them may help someone vent, but the analytics of purchases are what drives the retailers product plans and revenue planning.
Quality is everything, and less is definitely more especially when the items all mix and match beautifully. Then I feel great in everything that I wear, and love my wardrobe.
So much, “Yes!” to today’s blog! We vote with our dollars at the retail stores. I look for t shirts made of Pima (or Supima) cotton as they feel so soft against my skin. I have a few from Talbots that I bought when they have their sales and they are my favorites, and since they have petite sizes, they fit me expertly! I’ve found several Veronica Beard blazers at 65% percent of at Nordstrom Rack. I bought my first VB blazer 3 years ago after watching you feature this brand on your videos. Now I have VB purses and sandals. Thank you for featuring quality brands while also including looks for less.
I agree whole-heartedly. I’m so glad you don’t do “hauls” from big box stores and online retailers.
I love your thoughts on why as we age quality matters more. I never considered it but I do agree with your assessments. Thanks for enriching us.
Thanks Kay for such an informative post. I think the sooner women embrace buying higher end or investment pieces the sooner they will be satisfied with their closets. If you just can’t afford something you love, say a VB dickie blazer, consider a quality blazer in its place. You’d still be adding a quality piece to your closet at maybe 1/2 the cost. Don’t settle for ill fitting or poorly made dupes that ALMOST look like the real thing.
Your dress is a classic and beautiful!
Recently I had a lesson in this very thing. Last fall I purchased a mid-quality linen jacket & low-quality linen pants. After wearing both numerous times on a recent vacation, the jacket still looks new & the pants look ready for the rag bag. Additionally, the jacket feels wonderful on the skin while the cheap pants are scratchy.
By nature I’m not a shopper or a fashion-oriented person. Additionally, I do think that by the time I reached 55+ and had my kids raised & out of college I had forgotten how to spend money on myself. I’m trying to learn 🙂
Excellent post!