How do these 2 tops look? - YouLookFab Forum

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How do these 2 tops look?

Jenni NZ

Veteran

Hi all, in the mall after a haircut. Some good deals for next spring/summer, the burgundy one could be worn now with black layering T underneath as in pic. I like both but hmmm, would I wear 30 times each? I have a lot of clothes but am hankering after something new and fun of course... Thoughts? The floral is $20 and the burgundy $30. Floral is polyester, burgundy is viscose/rayon, both made in China...and Farmers( the store) would not take part in the ethical fashion rankings. Am I answering my own question?

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15 replies

Latest reply was from Jenni NZ

Gigi

Veteran

I like both of the tops. I especially like the red one; I think the decoration at the neckline and arms is really fab.

It looks like you have concerns other than fit, though. When I am in such a position, I ask myself whether the pieces I am buying are special enough to buy them despite ethical shortcomings. In other words, is it going to be extremely difficult for me to find something similar elsewhere? Am I absolutely in love with these particular items and want to make an exception?

If the shopping is more for recreational purposes and enjoyment, and the item is not a HEWI or something I am in love with or truly need, I would be tempted to put the items back on the rack, knowing that I have other items in my closet already that I can enjoy, and knowing that something else will eventually come along that does meet my ethical criteria.

bridgie

Veteran

I think both tops look very nice on you. I like both and would wear them. I understand that to you and other fabbers it is important to you to get 30 wears from any clothes items. I admire you for this. However, I never think how many times I will wear anything but I know I should. I am always too anxious to have something new and fun.

The ethical issue is different. I am lurking and reading everything that comes to my attention. I certainly support ethical treatment in every situation.

No 2 is my favorite on you. You look happy and the fun side of you shows. Smiley Face to you.

Jenni NZ

Veteran

Thanks Gigi and Bridgie! You both like number 2. For today, they are back on the sales rack, that is not necessarily the final decision. I could go back tomorrow and there are so many clothes in that store my guess is they would still be there. If not, they weren't for me, that is my attitude. Perhaps I am not sure enough. This can be a 24 hour power pause!- that mall is only 5 minutes drive from my house. And I should get in touch with Farmers and say that their not answering the ethical fashion questionnaire is putting me off them. By not answering they got given an F.

bridgie

Veteran

I admire you for sticking with your values. That is more important than a new item of clothing. And if you do go back, that is O.K. It is obvious that you are putting a lot of thought and consideration into the issue.!

lozz_oz

Veteran

How about supporting some of those fabulous designers that NZ still has - superior quality, design + hopefully still made in your country?
I come across these items at times in the op shops + I'm always impressed by them.
Paying a bit more to support them keeps them in business + answers your ethical questions.. Just a suggestion

rachylou

Veteran

I vote the blue. And the whole China thing - well, my mother won't buy anything made in China. But let's face it, China is in charge now...

Jenni NZ

Veteran

Oh yes, China is in charge. I worry about the treatment of the workers. So MUCH is sewn there it bothers me, I see pics... I think Bangladesh may still be even worse though. So as to Lozz_oz's point... yes we do have some fabulous NZ designers who make their clothes here, Sabatini who I buy on sale are a case in point. But SO expensive some of them, I couldn't get the variety I crave and have to pay so much for everything. I did go into some op shops recently but somehow those shops don't always smell very nice and they are too cramped. I don't mind designers making money obviously, but then sometimes they seem to make so MUCH money if the clothes are sold at full price I wonder if I would be a fool to pay those prices. I would not be buying just to have those labels, you see, I don't move in those circles. I am the person who in the year 2000 ( NZ hosted the America's Cup for the first time) thought Prada was a boat!

Jenni NZ

Veteran

PS when I thought Prada was a boat, I was 39 years old

Deborah

Veteran

Jenni I took an ethical stance at the beginning of the year. I think really carefully now before buying fast fashion. If I believe it will add value to my closet and I will get at least 30 wears then I will seriously consider the purchase, but otherwise I walk away. Sounds like you are using the same guide in using. Good on you xx

jill58

Veteran

Ethical questions aside, when I am considering a purchase I often try to imagine that I am meeting friends later in the day or going out for dinner or to some event where the particular item would be appropriate. Then I try to imagine what I would pull from my closet and whether it would be the item in question of something else that I like even better.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

#1 looks great.

The Cat

Veteran

The vertical lines of the floral one look great on you. Wearing it with black trousers is fine. It would also be an easy match with blue and white jeans and with blue, white and black skirts and crops.

madeline

Veteran

I really like number 1 also.

JAileen

Veteran

I like #2. If you're not sure, and have other alternatives, then maybe you should pass on them.

Jenni NZ

Veteran

Thanks everyone. I have decided to pass on them. The only sad thing is I must have loosened one of the lovely filigree gold earrings while trying on and have lost it. The shop and the mall have been alerted but no joy. So now no tops and a lost earring! The earring was ethical- bought it at the St Kilda markets in Melbourne 2015 from the craftsman who made it, an Aussie who was actually a Kiwi ( quite a number of us have emigrated there). Luckily I also bought a different gold pair. I am inclined to hold too tight to my possessions so it is all teaching me lessons.
Deborah, yes the guide I am using is based on the Baptist World Aid Australia or something one, adapted for NZ by Tear Fund. Farmers is a big department store chain, ironically founded by a very keen Christian back in the day, Robert Laidlaw. Now they refuse to answer the ethical fashion questions It will be hard for me not to go in and look there. I've replaced my shopping hobby with my forum hobby. I think idly looking at clothes has been an easy relaxation when I use a lot of brainpower at work.