How to Know If You’re Really Paying for a High-Quality Piece – Glam Radar

If you love shopping and embracing a bargain, how do you define “value”?  Though long-term durability should be the first thing you consider when buying clothes, quality isn’t always immediately apparent to the untrained eye, and price alone can be deceiving. Since it’s time to focus on quality, not just quantity when you shop, keep on reading for our guidelines so you’ll make sure you’re paying for a high-quality piece.

Natural fibers also wear better while cheap synthetics are notorious for showing their wear after a few wash and wears.

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Normal wear and tear is inevitable, even with the most exclusive fabrics. Before going shopping, notice the clothes in your closet where some might age more gracefully than others or some expensive pieces pilled just as much as cheaper pieces. Generally, natural fibers wear better while cheap synthetics are notorious for showing their wear after a few wash and wears. For instance, sweaters that are over 50 percent acrylic should be avoided as they will visually expire far faster than their cotton and cashmere cousins.

Notice how the material will feel next to your skin.

If something feels itchy or less than luxurious when you try it on, you’re less likely to grab for it in your closet. So, gravitate toward items you won’t want to take off. For instance, when something is labeled as “100 percent cashmere,” that doesn’t mean it will last longer as more expensive cashmere come from the longer, thinner hairs of goats while less expensive cashmere tends to be shorter and coarser. So, test the resilience of the cashmere by stretching it a bit and opt for denser weaves that are less transparent.

Look at the fabric construction of the item.

Any imperfections like missed or loose stitches, loose threads, and crooked lines and seams are a warning signal. Keep in mind that items with more stitches per inch are generally sturdier. Also, buttons and decorative pieces should also be securely in place. Facing and lining is another indicator of quality. Facing is the extra piece of fabric at the seams you’ll often find around necklines, zippers, and buttons that affect the way an item feels against your body. On the other hand, lining minimizes transparency and adds some extra weight. That’s the reason why unlined pieces look cheap.

Examine the details of the clothes you’re about to buy.

Sometimes the proof of high-quality is in the details. Metal zippers hold up longer than plastic and are less likely to go off track. When extra buttons are attached to the garment, it’s a clear indicator that the manufacturer insists on it sticking around in your closet. Keep in mind that cheap manufacturers will cut costs by using less fabric that might affect when you need some size alterations. By considering these guidelines, you’ll be able to pay for a high-quality piece, not that name of the brand.

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