I’ve always had an eye for expensive things, and I have pretty good taste in clothing. So, while shopping today at the Leesburg outlets, I found myself increasingly critical of the clothing options, even if it was a “good deal.”
(Although I did pick up a few basics – like $10 t-shirts at J. Crew)

I have lots of friends (mostly men) who can’t tell the difference between say, a polo shirt bought at Target and one bought at Nordstrom. Can you really not tell? I mean, the material is thinner and cheaper, the stitching isn’t as good, the color may be off dyed… it’s not that hard!

For example I went into the Lacoste outlet, and I was excited about maybe getting something there. However, most of the choices I saw were either blatantly NOT real Lacoste, or they were just…wrong. Sparkly threads in the stripes, thin material for the polos, odd shapes and colors, etc… I guess when you shop at the real store enough and know the designer, you know what it’s supposed to look like!

I have a weakness for Lacoste polos (I like the material and crispness), and I like designers like fun Michael Kors, funky Diane von Furstenberg (not that I can ever afford it, I just look), cool Dolce & Gabbana, the brightness of Lilly Pulitzer and the classic look of Ralph Lauren. I would love a Coach bag, Chanel sunglasses, a David Yurman bracelet, and Jimmy Choo shoes. Call me a label whore or a fashionista, or even snotty and high maintenance – but I like to know I’m getting something good!

I guess I’m old enough where I just can’t see spending the money on clothes just because they’re “cheap” and may or may not have a brand name. I’d rather spend $100 on a real BCBG shirt than $60 on the knock off that will fall apart.

Maybe there is something to be said for expensive clothes made right.

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