By Nicole Brown
It’s a new year, and I love to take the time to evaluate my closet, trends, and the color of the year – which for 2025 is shades of brown, which I’m really excited about! I have always enjoyed fashion after discovering my sense of style right out of college as I entered into the “corporate” world, and over the past few years, I’ve quickly learned that quality clothing wins every time.
Some may wonder if quality is worth the extra dollars, and as someone who unfortunately does not have an unlimited bank account, I have mastered the art of quality clothing that’s affordable. Let’s talk about it, shall we?
Fast fashion. It’s everywhere. Cheap, trendy clothes that vanish as quickly as they appear. I’m talking about Temu, Shein, Ama… OK, you get it. But is it really worth it? While the allure of a $10 dress is strong, the reality is that prioritizing quality clothing offers a far greater return on your hard-earned investment.
Quality clothing lasts longer. Better fabrics, stronger stitching, and thoughtful construction mean garments that withstand wear and tear. I think about my first pair of work pants that I purchased back in 2013 from LOFT that I kept for years before I took to Goodwill because I could no longer fit them. I have found that if I pay a little more for a few basic pieces, I’ll spend less time replacing the basics and more time enjoying them. This translates to significant cost savings and a happy wallet in the long run.
Investing in quality often means investing in ethical production. Many fast fashion brands relyon exploitative labor practices and contribute to environmental damage. By choosing brands that prioritize sustainability and fair labor, you’re supporting a more ethical and responsible fashion industry. If you have some time this weekend, consider watching “Buy Now” on Netflix for a visual aid of what happens with the over-consumption of things we buy (yes, I’m still guilty in that area) and how fast fashion is discarded. It’s truly mind-opening!
One of my favorite parts of quality clothing often reflects better design. Classic cuts, timeless silhouettes, and high-quality materials create pieces that are both stylish and versatile. I’m thinking of my go-to brands like Spanx and Tuckernuck, often duplicated but never truly replicated due to their quality and unique cuts! They can be mixed and matched with ease, creating endless outfit possibilities and ensuring your wardrobe remains fresh and exciting. I’m thinking of some pieces now that I can pull out every season and it never truly goes out of style.
Finally, quality clothing simply feels better. Soft, luxurious fabrics against your skin, a perfectly tailored fit – these are the foundations of a truly well-made garment. The confidence that comes from wearing something that feels good is priceless. I shared a great basic staple dress from Spanx on my socials and spoke to the quality of the dress and how it can be a go-to for many years. The dress was also on major sale, under $50, but felt like a $200 dress! So, the next time you’re tempted by a fleeting trend, consider this: Is it worth sacrificing quality, ethics, and long-term satisfaction for a momentary thrill? The answer is clear. Invest in quality clothing and reap the rewards for years to come.
Key takeaways
- Durability: Quality clothing lasts longer, saving you money over time and staying on trend the classic way.
- Ethics: Support ethical and sustainable production practices.
- Versatility: Timeless designs offer endless outfit possibilities. Think lots of black, navy, white and brown.
- Comfort: Experience the superior feel of high-quality fabrics and construction. That buttery soft feeling, cool wick fabrics, etc.
In my next article, I’ll share five staples everyone should have in their closet, along with top brands that source ethically in their fabrics! In the meantime, follow me on social media for style inspo for the everyday!
XOXO,
Nicole Brown
Lelia’s Southern Charm
Nicole Brown, the creative force behind Lelia’s Southern Charm, believes in the power of joyful dressing. This human resources professional channels her passion for fashion into inspiring content, sharing her latest finds, Pinterest-worthy outfits, and local favorites with her followers. When not curating her digital closet, she’s exploring new destinations and cultivating a community that celebrates finding the joy in the everyday! Find her at LeliasSouthernCharm.com, @leliassoutherncharm on Instagram or TikTok, and Lelia’s Southern Charm on Facebook and Pinterest.