YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Quality

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Quality https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 14 Apr 2026 20:23:33 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Angie on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099547 Sun, 16 Feb 2020 19:42:44 +0000 Angie 2099547@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ YES. 100% with Pendleton too. And Smythe blazers, Madewell jeans, and KUT denim jackets.  annagybe on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099542 Sun, 16 Feb 2020 19:36:21 +0000 annagybe 2099542@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Broken record here, Pendleton Also agree with Angie about Scotch & Soda I have a pair of Madewell jeans that are holding up very well For hiking & outdoor gear, Fjallraven, especially their pants Angie on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099533 Sun, 16 Feb 2020 19:12:20 +0000 Angie 2099533@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Taylor, HIGH FIVE. I wanted the pinstripe Hilfiger blazer too - with matching pants to make a suit - gone in my size.  I'm agreeing with: Lucky jeans, Rebecca Minkoff bags, Zara jackets, Soia & Kyo outerwear, Talbots wovens, Clarks, Frye, Cole Haan, AGL, Equipment Blouses, G-Star menswear, Burberry trench coats, Theory jackets, Veronica Beard pants, Polo - and most designer handbags.  Greg and I have quite a bit of COS across knits and woven. Impeccable. Knitwear a little fuzzy, but brushes clean.  Kari on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099240 Sat, 15 Feb 2020 14:45:53 +0000 Kari 2099240@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ RANT list: Faux-leather including Kut from the Kloth and Eloquii. Lasts approx. 3-4 years, then rots. <div> </div><div>Caslon denim. Did not hold up well over time. </div><div> </div><div>Flimsy buttons on otherwise well made items (Michael Kors, Gallery) Diba boots (had a gorgeous pair of pewter booties, the sole actually cracked all the way through after a couple years of wear.) Nordstrom branded underwear, a poor substitute when they discontinued Shimera. </div> Kari on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099237 Sat, 15 Feb 2020 14:39:00 +0000 Kari 2099237@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ The RAVE list: Universal  Standard, even their knits. They tend to discontinue or revamp pieces that customers have quality issues with, and listen to feedback, but most of what I’ve got has held up impeccably well (including frequently worn and washed knits,) Frye and Ecco shoes. Chaco sandals. Cole Haan wedges. <div> </div><div>Elomi bras. Zella workout gear. Tomboyx underwear.  <div> </div><div>Sejour leather jackets (RIP.)</div></div> Irina on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099234 Sat, 15 Feb 2020 14:32:39 +0000 Irina 2099234@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ About COS - I’ve been wearing COS since 2016. The only issue I’ve experience is fading of cotton knitwear and white shirts. Which is a common issue with cotton pieces. Other than that, the quality is good, I still have 4 years old clothes. Their shoes quality is average, too average for full price in CAN $$.  Janet on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099229 Sat, 15 Feb 2020 14:13:25 +0000 Janet 2099229@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I’m having some issues with brands that I previously had exceptional experience with. Maybe my expectations were out of proportion to reality. I have Lululemon running capris that are almost 9 years old and still quite wearable, but some that I bought last year are starting to slide down my waist a bit, and the seams are showing some wear. So I don’t expect they’ll last as many years as my old ones. Lucky brand jeans. I have had great experience with them over the years, but the other day I noticed one of my favorite bootcut jeans from them — which is maybe 2 years old but hasn’t even faded much yet — is developing a thin spot at the seam in the crotch. That never happens to me until jeans get faded and old! But I guess for the price I got them, it’s not awful to get a couple of years out of them. Lately I’m liking Rag & Bone for knits and lightweight sweaters. I try to get them on sale. Boden as well, although the styles are a little preppy for me. Zara does good jackets. Sometimes the quality seems far above the price point. Synne on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099211 Sat, 15 Feb 2020 12:17:35 +0000 Synne 2099211@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ COS is far superior in quality than H&M, their sister brand. Maybe I have too high expectations to garments. It is after all just clothes, and will in time be worn out (as someone stated wisely on here earlier). I did wear my wool sweater belted a couple of times, that may have caused the pilling. I also ruined two other cotton COS tops while laundering (faded colours, loss of shape). If I really want pristine items, I guess I need to pamper and baby them more April on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099209 Sat, 15 Feb 2020 11:52:23 +0000 April 2099209@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ This thread continues to be fascinating.  COS -- first brand here to receive both a thumbs up and a thumbs down? Irina on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099182 Sat, 15 Feb 2020 04:39:59 +0000 Irina 2099182@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Cole Haan shoes - I bought oxfords 4 years ago and they still look new. Theory is another good one, although I don’t have that many pieces, my silk pants and cashmere sweaters are great. Massimo Dutti’s pants and outwear, blazers are well made but quality of sweaters is chancy. Eileen Fisher provides great quality but I can only willing to buy on a big discount.  Love Equipment silk tops and blouses.  I had an unpleasant experience with Kate Spade purse  - a suede pocket on a leather purse became fussy and faded after less than one year. Unusable! avicennia on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099173 Sat, 15 Feb 2020 02:17:17 +0000 avicennia 2099173@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I should add that I find the quality of Clark’s shoes to be consistent, as well as the sizing. The only other shoe brands I’ve found to as consistent are higher end Italian brands. avicennia on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099168 Sat, 15 Feb 2020 02:07:39 +0000 avicennia 2099168@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ @ Runcarla — I’m afraid that I’m finding Speedo’s quality to be declining. My latest suit didn’t even last for two months and I don’t use any chlorine in my pool. April, Mts and Taylor — I totally agree that Ann Taylor’s quality is all over the map. I’ve gotten fairly good at judging quality from the start but have made some mistakes lately. The manager at my local store is gracious about accepting returns for items that aren’t up to snuff, like a blazer that would not release wrinkles even after steaming or a belt that frayed after one wear. I know that these returns hurt her store’s numbers with the corporate office, so I’m very grateful to her. On the other hand, in December I bought an AT cobalt trench that wears beautifully. So I haven’t given up on AT, in large part because the sales staff at my local store are so helpful. neatnic on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099120 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 23:12:31 +0000 neatnic 2099120@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ In my last year or two of purchases, I give a big thumbs up to: 1. Lululemon leggings and insulated outerwear 2. Clare V. handbags 3. Madewell denim MsMary on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099098 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 19:49:25 +0000 MsMary 2099098@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ April, right? That brand was not on my radar at all but this particular bag jumped out of a shop window and followed me home! Carla on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099081 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 18:58:47 +0000 Carla 2099081@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I haven’t been disappointed by any RL or CK products, nor the Uniqlo items I’ve acquired.  I’m dead loyal to Speedo brand (bathing suits, goggles) and Lululemon is winning me back via their men’s products and my OTF bottoms.  Mostly these items are dependable and durable.  I have an older black cotton trench made by a budget Canadian shop (Suzy Shier) that I’ve raved about.  Beautiful, beautiful, construction-but an exception rather than the rule.  Most of my quality garments with fine construction techniques are thrifted.  Says a lot, really.  :-( taylor on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099080 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 18:57:51 +0000 taylor 2099080@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Yes, Angie!  I now own five , LOVE them..  I tried to order bottom right #5,  but didn’t have my size. mtnsofthemoon,  I agree with you on the Ann Taylor blazers ,  I own dozen  of them.  They do wear like iron.    smittie on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099077 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 18:53:28 +0000 smittie 2099077@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Good stuff: lululemon knits and their full-on luxtreme fabric, Zara jeans, a lot of Zara knitwear is pretty good. Bad: h and m jeans, forever 21. mtnsofthemoon on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099075 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 18:49:19 +0000 mtnsofthemoon 2099075@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Ditto to Athleta leggings, top, bras and travel pants. I have a fav pair of joggers that are over 7 years old and still going. Their stuff is SOLID and can take abuse. Obsessed with the zipper pockets! However i line dry all arhletic gear. @taylor as blazer lover myself i have to say i have many AT and BR blazers that wear like steel. They are a wardrobe basic for me. I agree with many that the quality of BR items can be inconsistent but I have to say their blazers have been consistently solid for me. Lastly, i have one beloved pair of AGL flats that i absolutely abuse and they stand up to the merciless abuse I put them through. Angie on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099073 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 18:45:55 +0000 Angie 2099073@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ My CURRENT fabulous quality list:  Scotch & Soda Stella McCartney  Boden (wovens especially - and swimwear)  BR denim, BR washable Merino, BR fuzzy trucker jacket, BR Japan Collection COS 3.1 Philip Lim Elie Tahari Reiss Hobbs Ecco  Furla Avec Les Filles Joie Frame  Kate Spade  J.Crew shoes & Bags Karen Millen Veronica Beard Frame denim Splendid (wovens) Zella (Nordies house brand for workout wear) Sweaty Betty G-Star Hanky Panky, Simone Perele, Hanro,  Ralph Lauren and CK DRESSES  Got to go! Working with a client. Be back later.  Angie on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099069 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 18:37:52 +0000 Angie 2099069@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Taylor, YES! Tommy Hilfiger blazers are looking FABULOUS this season. This striped one is KILLER. Photos do not do them justice. Look at these Finds, and look at the pics for the back elbow patch detailing. Super cute:  April on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099062 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 18:20:09 +0000 April 2099062@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ So many brands I've never tried! Thanks for sharing your finds. MM - good lord, Etienne Aigner? You just took me straight back to the 80s - *everyone* wanted that little horseshoe charm on a shoe or a bag. taylor on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099046 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 17:29:31 +0000 taylor 2099046@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I agree , quality is not what it used to be.   I recently bought several Tommy Hilfiger blazers .  I have been looking to update my blazers to wear them with my denim.  I seriously couldn’t find anything decent.  I’m usually not a fan of Hilfiger items ,  but these blazers are impeccable,  and I’m happy with them.. Most of my Blazers are from Ann Taylor ,  and I love them,  but the quality and variety  isn’t there anymore .:( Katerina on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099044 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 17:19:51 +0000 Katerina 2099044@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Geox shoes have been great for reasonable price. I have flats, oxfords and sneakers from Geox - all nicely finished, robust and comfortable.  Best quality shoes ever for me - Tod's. Cost a lot more than Geox though, but last almost forever... I have been very happy with Van Laack shirts and blouses. It is a German brand, I think. I bought a couple of silk blouses and a cotton shirt. Great fit and very well made from beautiful materials.  An Italian label which has sublime knits - Alpha Studio. They have boutiques in Italy, but I found and ordered from different online outlets. Beautiful quality well worth the price. The brand was new to me and I was really impressed.   Bonnie on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099039 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 17:10:16 +0000 Bonnie 2099039@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I agree with those who like BR and Athleta. I've also really liked my Everlane items. My Vionic combat boots and Geox high shaft sneakers are fab. MsMary on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099036 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 17:01:37 +0000 MsMary 2099036@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Yes to Athleta. I have a bunch of their workout capris that have been in weekly use for NINE YEARS and they still look great. And I put them through the washer and dryer. Just bought some new ones (seems longer leggings are more current) and I hope they hold up as well! (Also pro tip: I get them on eBay for 1/3 to 1/2 less than retail.) Also have been quite pleased with Banana Republic lately, including knitwear and pants. I bought a pair of pants from Brooks Brothers over Christmas that are generally great except a small seam came apart the first time I wore them. The dry cleaner was able to fix it but that was a disappointment. Bought an Etienne Aigner bag on vacation last summer and have carried it a ton and it still looks brand new. Expensive but well worth it. Anonymous on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099031 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 16:34:33 +0000 Anonymous 2099031@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'm on a shopping fast, but been very impressed with Athleta. Their leggings are well sewn, fully opaque (angels sing), have pockets with zips, and have held up well to weekly washings and multidisciplinary athletic abuse! Spendy but well worth it. nemosmom on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099022 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 16:02:15 +0000 nemosmom 2099022@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I recently bought a Naadam cashmere sweater and it is beautifully made. It is beautifully constructed (the knit pieces are straight, not crooked) and the seams are neatly sewn and trimmed.  <div>I am also impressed by the construction of a linen skirt from an etsy shop "NotPerfectLinen".  My tailor (who used to make custom suiting in Italy) even commented on it.</div><div> </div><div>Uniqlo has been good recently, too.  I have two of their basic cotton tees that wear like iron, and this winter I added a pair of their "pile lined" joggers that already have 54 wears since October - and they haven't faded or pilled or started to show any wear whatsoever. </div> Synne on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099017 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 15:44:32 +0000 Synne 2099017@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Tamaris, German shoe label. Consistent good quality across a range of styles. Reasonable prices. I was recently disappointed in COS knitwear. Pilling on an almost unworn and un-laundered wool sweater, that also was quite pricey. I am also sceptical that many big sport brands are now only selling cotton + polyester mixes (guaranteed pilling). I was looking for new sports/ loungewear, but I think I will pass. April on "Quality" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/quality#post-2099012 Fri, 14 Feb 2020 14:35:28 +0000 April 2099012@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Per <a rel="nofollow" href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/please-be-discerning-about-quality">Angie's thread about being discerning with regard to quality</a>, wondering where you have seen quality go down (or up) and where you have recently found beautifully-made items? I'll start.  -- Ann Taylor used to mean consistently nice quality (can't speak to footwear), now it's all over the place.  --Talbots still means generally good quality, as does Brooks Brothers. --Seconding Angie's thumbs-up to the quality of Furla bags.