How to identify quality clothes

Spending money on clothes that will last only a few wears is a thing of the past. Since the recession is still looming over fashionista closets everywhere, it is imperative that we get the most out of the garments we decide are worthy of our money. Since price ≠ quality, it is foolish to assume that because you spend top dollar on something that it is going to last (or that you wont have a wardrobe malfunction in them). So, how exactly do you spot quality? Keep reading…..

Inspect. Give potential closet additions a thorough inspection. Pay close attention to the following:

• Buttons.Buttons, hooks, and fasteners should be secure and sturdy. Poorly attached buttons are a sign of poor quality, but if everything else checks out on the garment, don’t let the buttons deter you, you can always reinforce them. Be sure to ask for a discount if you have to replace or reattach any fasteners. Also, look at the button hole. High quality clothing is bound with thread for strength
• Stitching. Garments tend to rip at the seams, more than any other area. Check all the seams and give them a good pull. Look for any gaps and openings, quality clothing will have close tight stitches, that are sewn in a straight line, and do not pull apart.
• Patterns.Pay close attention to how the pattern continues at the seams. Patterns on well made clothing, interlace without distortion or breaks. For example, on a striped shirt do they line up with the corresponding stripe on either side? Do they connect properly at the shoulders? For handbags, is the logo cut off awkward? For some prints, this may not matter in terms of aesthetics or even durability, but aligned patterns are a sign of good workmanship.
• Fabric. Unless the item is meant to be sheer, your skin should not show through. Also, good quality items will have a high thread count, and resist wrinkles (with the exception of linens)

Inspecting  before you buy is a critical step in getting the most out of your clothes, but it doesn’t end there. Once you get them home, proper care is paramount. Following the instruction on the tag, according to the material is always a smart move, but here are some extra steps you can take to keep your clothing pristine:

• Turn your jeans inside out while in the wash, doing so will help prevent fading.
• Since most fading occurs in the dryer, keep your drying time to a minimum. Allow clothes to air dry (out of the sun) to about 75% dry and then place them in the dryer to finish the drying process and smooth out any wrinkles.
• Bra’s should be handwashed, but if you do put them in the wash, put them in a lingerie bag or pillow case, and fasten the buckles.
• NO WIRE HANGERS! There’s a reason Mommy Dearest goes bananas over them. They are too thin to provide any shape support, and rusting and snagging may occur.
• Fold sweaters and knits to avoid stretching them
• Hang like fabric materials and colors together in the closet, you don’t want your rough denim rubbing your silks or color transfers.
• Don’t be afraid of the iron. I personally hate ironing, so I avoid wrinkly materials, but sometime an iron is all a garment needs to look new. (avoid too much starch)
• Don’t wash your clothes. At least for a few wears. Depending on what you’re doing and where you’re going jeans can get 2-3 wears before washes and jackets even longer.

What characteristics do you look for in clothing to help you determine if it is worth buying or not? Tell us in the comments.

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