Okay, I came across this while googling designer v mainstream and I think it highlights the extremes at both ends and the blurring in the middle
'Define "designer". There are many levels....I'll describe them roughly.
First there's higher end, mainstream "name brands" which you find in most any department store, or chain boutiques which carry (relatively) pricey clothing (ie. Anthropologie). Some of these are designer lines made for the masses (ie. DKNY). Generally, these are not considered designer clothes at all, but they do cost more than Wal-Mart, which is considered "discount clothing" . Between this level and discount is the name brands for the masses (ie. the Gap). The quality is above discount, but not as good as higher end name brands.
The advantage to higher end name brands can be: higher quality material and thread, styles knocked off from recent runway trends, better cut/fit, and more attention to detail. The higher quality feels better, looks better, fits better, and lasts longer. Sometimes, a name is just a name though. There's a lot of range in that section, and some of it crosses over into the next section...
Next, you have pretty well-known designer labels that can be found in nicer department stores (ie. Nordstrom, Bloomingdales), such as Chanel, Marc Jacobs etc. These are made in large quantity, although not aimed at the average person. This is "affordable luxury". These have similar advantages as the above clothes with the added appeal of a more well-known designer label . Also, a lot of it sold in department stores are actually pretty simple, classic items that will last you many years (not super trendy).
Then, there's the couture sold in boutiques, aimed at the wealthy minority. They will sometimes carry lesser known, up-&-coming designers that you wouldn't find in a department store, or more fashion-forward styles by well known designers. These are "luxury" clothes. At this point you are paying for design and uniqueness of the item, much more so than just the material.
Then there's haute couture, much of which is art and not even made to be worn IRL, unless you're a celebrity and/or want to make a statement & have lots of money. Haute couture is often one of a kind and custom fitted.
The higher up the level you go, you also get more exclusivity, meaning you don't have to worry about running into someone wearing the same thing.'
Read more: http://www.city-data.com/forum.....z0gWdbfeCj
Maybe for the blurry middle section the term designer is simply a marketing tool, it implies quality, niche and luxury. Perhaps a high end mainstream brand does not wish to appear elitist in the hope the brand will have wider appeal.
There was also an interesting quote from a guy whose wife worked for Max Mara who had been told "We don't care if you don't sell a single thing". The reason the stores exist is to advertise the brand and keeping up the image is "job one".
Read more: http://www.city-data.com/forum.....z0gWgLp9Eq
Surely though all designer brands now need to think in terms of profit, labels are vanishing on a regular basis through loss of financial backing.
It appears the YLF forum falls into two categories, those you will shop both mainstream and designer and those you feel more comfortable just shopping mainstream. At the other end of the spectrum I imagine their are shoppers who refuse to purchase anything other than a known designer brand.
I still do not know the answer to the question but I am seeing the blur more clearly.
Thank you for your responses.