7 Reasons Your Clothes Look Cheap *Even If They’re $$$* 

"It's better to have an empty slot in your wardrobe than filling it with something that you won't love." Wise words from a wise woman---and a precept that can be applied to many other realms in life. ;-)

I saw a dress online that looks pretty nice (selling at $700 USD). I was so shocked to find that it's made out of 100% polyester. The brand sure has the guts to price it at that level. I wonder how many fell for it. I stopped buying clothes made out of synthetic material, even if it's nice and priced at $20, let alone $700!

There is so much bad construction in even moderately higher priced pieces these days. I constantly see items that are hundreds of dollars made with cheap fabric and unmatched patterns at seams.

One of the disadvantages of online shopping is the fact that you can’t inspect clothes or shoes before you buy them. It’s harder and harder to find brick and mortar stores these days and brick and mortar stores don’t sell the full range of extended sizes (if the brand offers extended sizes) and as a petite, that’s really important to me. It can be a pain to always be sending things back so I have been known to keep clothing I really should be returning.

The side-by-side visual examples are very helpful, thank you. Also, I appreciate the mention of painted zipper pulls and embellishments. I think I avoid those instinctually but don't believe I ever stopped to ponder why I dislike them.

There's one other reason: You don't know how to care properly for your high quality clothes. I buy a lot of 2nd hand garments because I lost a lot of weight and had to replace my whole wardrobe. I just noticed that some garments of high quality that were once very expensive arrive here in very poor condition. They look cheap. But with some TLC (brushing, combing, steaming etc. or applying proper leather care) they look nearly new. So some people choose to buy new instead of properly caring for their stuff so it doesn't wear out.

Maybe a future topic could be arm seam construction. I mean for example full fashion knits as compared to the boxed shoulder, generally a dropped sleeve look. I will not buy the latter but the former is increasingly difficult to find. Another topic could be lesser understood natural fiber: rayon, ramie, lyocell, modal, bamboo.

You have such a kind energy, not only I like the content but the way you transmit it. Thank you!

It would be great to have a seamstress or tailor on one of your vlogs and interview them on constructing garments.

This is hands down the BEST video to articulate how to “look expensive”. It’s about quality not necessarily about literally trying to appear rich. It’s really about just trying to look polished and put together.

When I used to buy suits for work, I would often buy nicer buttons at a fabric store like JoAnn. The makers just don't bring their "A" game.

Speaking of similar videos, I really liked your one about shoes like this. I'm a thrift shopper and it really helped me know what to look for when shopping for shoes. I don't always buy shoes at the thrift store but now i better know how to spot something of quality. I bought an amazing pair of thigh high brown boots for five bucks recently using the tips you shared. I checked the seams, how the soles were attached, noticed the even color, etc. Super helpful!

Omg I'm 10 seconds in. That ultra femme dress on you? I'm gobsmacked, you're absolutely angelic! ❤️ Back to the video!!

I really appreciate your filming spot! It’s so nice to see a real place rather than a backdrop. Good advice from you, as always!😊💐

So true about the difficulty of shopping online. I truly regret the disappearance of store shopping. Thanks for another informative video, Audrey.

Great tips Audrey. Painted zipper pulls...always start chipping and peeling paint. Why did anyone think this was a good idea in the first place? :)

Your graphics showing what to avoid (the over-wide shoulders, uneven seams and gathers etc.) were especially helpful. Thank you!

Seams are a dead give away that a garment has been made on the cheap. I think they are more obvious than the pattern matching and can really ruin a look. Lovely video as always, Audrey. Your voice is so soothing! Like meditating! 💕

Can you please recommend stores/brands? Places that make it easier to find clothes made similar to your suggestions. I love the yes and no pictures you post, I screen shot them so I have guides but it gets overwhelming. Even if they are expensive. When I find something I love I wear it all the time so I don't always mind if it's a bit expensive because I know I'll get my money's worth.

Great video ! i am sometimes amazed at the low quality of the buttons used even in brands such as Emporio Armani and Polo Ralph Lauren. They try to cut down costs but there should be a better quality/price ratio. Greetings from Paris

So much good stuff here! Learning to have an eye for high quality is one of the best ways to be a smart shopper. Great video!

Wonderful video - thank you, Audrey. French and Italian women pay so much attention to the way their clothes are constructed and cut. They're so effortlessly elegant , feminine and stylish - and so are you.

I am loving these more informative videos! I lost weight over the last couple of years and need an entire new work wardrobe (back to the office next month), and your videos have been so helpful! I’m being much more mindful of my clothing snd shoe purchases now. I think I’ve finally come around to quality over quantity 🤩

Excellent points Audrey! I've become quite the discriminate shopper thanks to your advice. I always look for patterns that line up and natural fabrics. The lighting on this video seems very dark to me.

Please do more of these!! Such good tips, and maybe more about buttons, what constitutes high quality or how to spot them. Thank you! 🧡 Also, as an artist I love your color series. So much fun🌈

Audrey, thank you for this informative video. Buying clothing actually for me was fun, but in the last few years, it is a challenge to find what you are looking for. When Lord & Taylor sold their flagship location on 5th Avenue, I felt the end of an era. Then buying on line is another adventure, I send back more stuff than I keep. Finally we need your videos in our lives, thanks again.❤️❤️

Perfect video and calming voice on this stormy morning 🌧🌩

Love the video. Ps I went shopping to my favourite clothing shop today, the first time in a year. I realised I have a totally different way of shopping since watching all your videos. I ask myself where I need it in my wardrobe or NOT! I feel so in control when shopping now. Thank you so much.

I watched a the TV show 'What Not To Wear' (US) years ago and they did a Top 10 in your wardrobe and the number one thing was to have a tailor (or seamstress) in your closet. That has always stuck with me. It goes with your first suggestion for making clothes fit. As we all know clothes are cut to a limited number of body shapes and if you don't have this shape then finding clothes to fit you properly is really hard; I'm one of those. Since I discovered this "trick", I buy cloths that fit the widest parts such as bust and hips and then have it taken in or taken up to fit me. It immediately makes the garment look so much more refined and put together and it's not expensive either but the item of clothing looks like it is when she is done.

Wow I need to do some work to develop an eye for some of these. I can tell the good seams and matching patterns, and the tailored fit and quality fabrics. I need to figure out good buttons and when things look faded though. As always, thanks Audrey!!

I would add a few things about buttons! 1. It's difficult to tell online whether they're low quality... But chances are if the garment is new vs. vintage, the buttons will suck. You can also swap them out to upgrade your garment. 2. CRUCIAL for coats!! I've encountered an expensive woolen coat where the breast buttons kept falling off from strain, because they weren't sown in properly despite being good quality buttons! The backing fabric was too narrow and flimsy for the button's weight and usage. If that's something you can sniff out, watch out for that in coats.

I loved the shoe vlog and have saved it to reference when I plan to buy a new pair of boots. Any vlog that will help in purchasing quality pieces are great. If you have more ideas, I’d love to see them.

I need more of these videos please! This was so original and no other RU-vidr has pointed these things out. I feel like a lot of people copy each other with content on how to look elegant and say the same thing. Some of these things I have definitely noticed but now my thoughts were validated and I don't feel crazy I'm the only one noticing them. I'm going back to watch all the previous videos you mentioned. Thank you so much!

I've gotten into looking at seams on clothes ---and I look for French seams in well made clothes. I'll put back a garment that has surged seams that are left surged and not properly felled. I'd love to watch more videos on things like this--I learn so much from you!!!

Great material. Seems like we already know it all and yet, when put in such a structured way, there are some new thoughts and ideas to discover. Another really valuable input from you, Audrey! Thanks!

When I thrift beautiful items I always look for quality fabrics, patterns & buttons ❣️Often vintage clothing was made way better than today’s “luxury items”‼️🌟💰

❣️Great tips…it’s always the details…sometimes I find a good fitting garment and end up changing out the cheap buttons for more sophisticated classic ones…instant GLOW UP😀🤩

Your sweet welcoming, your smooth voice, your feminine drees, your hair etc. etc. is beautiful. Thank you for all the hard work that you do, it shows.💕

You have eagle eyes my friend!! The color saturation is something I missed, very dowdy. Look forward to more of these. 👏👏

Hi Audrey, Please please please offer more videos like this. All of your information is invaluable. This subject is a must in this age of online shopping. Your advice here helps us to skill-build. Such a lifetime asset. Definitely need-2-know info for in-person comparison shopping too. Much respect for your work. THANKS!

I have to say, I 100% disagree. I HATE the silly narrow armed fitted sleeve super 2010 jackets. They are just immediately dated. I LOVE the nice wide sleeve and slight oversize in the shoulder so you can fit a sweater, or just look like you can breathe. There is nothing specifically classic about that era, really. And asymmetric jackets look really odd. They just look silly. But it really is hard to find a leather jacket that fits just so. You are 100% right about patterns. ALWAYS make sure the pattern matches perfectly in the back. Usually they match it up in the front, but figure no one looks at the rear. How sad is that?!

Like you said many of us are shopping online. It's so hard to know what the fabric feels like, how the garment is constructed until you get it and can inspect it. As a child I was a bit spoiled. My aunt made clothing for a designer and she picked the best fabrics for the garments and the seams and hems were unlike anything you can buy at the stores these days. This wasn't an aunt that had a sewing hobby. She was a professional and made me appreciate a well made garment.

Ive learned to buy organic cottons, linens,etc. They cost more but are worth it.

I dont think shiny leather must look cheap in every case, I think its just the way of combining and opinions, also "color faded style" its about the style, why should we say it looks cheap

This was really helpful! Thank you! I’d love to see more videos like this ~ also highlighting what a really great fit looks like on a person. I really liked those comparison photos in this video!

The embellishments point is excellent. Thanks so much. Love from Pennsylvania 💗

These are such great tips, thank you! I love this type of video, so I’d happily watch more. I got a dress recently and it has a wonky seam on one side of the waistband… I wish I’d returned it!

Oh gosh, you pointed something that could just increase my OCD tendencies and that's pattern that don't line up. I don't notice them and frankly I don't want to but now, I might be able to unsee them.

Not quite with you on the leather jacket examples: it’s actually fashionable to wear them on the large side, and the fitted one almost looks too small to me? I used to make most of my own clothes, and am still very fussy about matching patterns on items, and the fabrics used in construction. Cheaper clothes can sometimes look ok if they are plain, but stripes, checks, patterns etc really show them up.

I love these type of videos :) they're truly helpful thank you

Thank you, Audrey, for saving us from ourselves! ❤️

Hi Audrey! So happy to see you back! Yes please, I would love to see more of these videos. It reinforces me to continue looking at my purchases more wisely. Thank you sweetie!

Such a fantastic video with practical advice about how to spot quality (regardless of price)! I grew up with a designer mum who taught me a lot about quality materials and your advice Audrey is crucial. I would highly recommend going to a haberdashery shop and “feeling” all the materials. Compare the cheap ones with the expensive. Focus on how they feel to the touch, how they drape, their weight, how clear and bright the print it. Look at the back of the fabric, if it stretches in the right direction, if it’s nice to wrap around and you feel like can “breathe” under it. They should never be rough against your skin, or stiff, or flaky. The trims and embellishments should never look like “toys” or like they will come off soon. Also, no matter who made it and how much they want, stay away from synthetics even if they are in a blend! Do yourself and the planet a favour. When I go shopping for clothes (which I mostly do as second hand stores!) I touch everything and read every composition label. I don’t care about brands because I have found many garments from big ones that are just terrible quality. Eventually you train your eye as well and it is easier to look out for flaws online.

Hi Audrey. This was so well thought out and very informative. I would love you to do more of these as this foundational, essential knowledge is so key for looking our very best. Thanks!!

Oh yes, keep going with topics like these! It is extremely helpful, especially with the pictures. Ex: I knew to look for patterns that don't match up, but I wasn't sure exactly what I was looking for when it came to seams. Thank you! :)

Thank you, Audrey. This is really helpful! I'm in the process of moving and getting my clothes ready to start a new job. Perfect timing for this video!

I wonder if you can talk about jewelry like long necklaces and how and when to wear,types of earrings for specific outfits,does all the jewelry need to match? Just some of the things I can think of

Oversize leather jackets are allowed if that is the look you are going for. Too perfect and put together tends to be what those of Chinese or similar east Asian decent go for but Europeans like things to look more spontaneous and less thought-out.

Excellent video Audrey, as always, your dress is heavenly. I am beginning to notice a drop in the overall quality from some retailers with online purchases of late. I wonder if they are less vigilant with their vetting of manufacturing due to so much being online now. I know a lot of customers just can not be bothered with the hassle of returning items, especially when purchased overseas, so just keep it. Or am I just being cynical? 🤔

These are wonderful tips. The illustrative photos are very helpful. I would really enjoy more videos like this one. Thank you, Audrey!

Thank you Audrey for anther helpful video! The poor quality of much of the mid-ranged priced clothing is what prompted me to learn sewing. Excited to start classes in a couple of weeks 😊. Also, since so many brick and mortar stores closed, I would love for you to do a video with recommendations for good quality online clothing websites.

your videos are so helpful audrey! i always look forward to your advice:-)

Great video! I have bought well made jackets and switched the buttons to make them look more expensive!

I just feel so sad that in todays world where we have million products there is actually so hard to find quality clothes and shoes.

Oversized jackets and shirts often go well with skinny, tall girls, especially leather jackets.

Your common sense approach with great attention to the smallest of details,really makes a world of difference in teaching ( In my opinion) how to locate,and appreciate quality,and endurable,but beautiful clothing!!❤️🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟Thank you!🤗🌹

Audrey, Yes, please make this series! 👩🏻‍🍳🤗

Yes, please do a video on recognizing and buying good quality buttons.

Omg your voice is so calming! I swear I went into a trance watching this 😂 Definitely subscribing!

I would love a video on items that are and arent tailorable. Tailoring is a new concept for me and I’m totally in the dark about what can and can’t be tailored.

Your romantic summer style always reminds me the Bridges of Madison county.

I was shocked recently when I spotted a jacket made of Italian wool that had puckered seams in the front, in a catalog from a retailer that I've respected for decades. It seems to me that a jacket costing that much money shouldn't have puckered seams. The retailer should've sent them all back to the manufacturer, but they didn't.

I'm 66 and an under-buyer...I hate to shop. 95% of my everyday wardrobe is black yoga pants, leggings, and long sleeve tees in various colors. When I 'dress up' I wear sharp black slacks, long sleeve tee, sometimes a scarf, and a structured jacket. Just like with food, I've become ridiculously minimal. I just spotted your video on scarves that I will watch. Your voice is so soothing that anything you talk about is enjoyable!

Thank you for you insight Audrey! I would love to see more content like this. I am always wanting to know what to look out for on garments that indicate they are either high or low quality. It is valuable to know this when shopping second hand.

My hair is exactly like yours and I love it but I get tired of hearing all the time that I would look better if I straightened it

Leather garments CAN be altered, but the tailor needs special equipment. Don't ask an ordinary tailor to do it.

i don't mean to criticize, i am generally curious. why is it important that we dress so people think we are rich? i mean, i do it too....but why?

Definitely more like this please.

I’d love to see more videos like this!

With the decline of physical stores, best check the return policy before you shop online! That dress is so pretty Audrey. The colour and style really suits you.

Not sure I understand all the muted/faded colors. I guess I understand that the "worn" look would be cheap but not the muted colors. One of your examples looked similar in color (@ the 3:28 mark) to the dress you are wearing.

Excellent tips and video ! 👌 I have leant a lot from you ….thank you so much ! Yes please make more videos like this 😊👍

I turned 40 last year and just started to buy quality over quantity. Same with my skin care routine. When I was in my 20's and early 30's that just wasn't a priority. I just wanted the best fad or what was on sale. Now, it's important for me. It's never too late. Love your content, Audrey. Keep it up. Greetings from Las Vegas, Nevada 😃 ❤ 💕 ✨

I have sometimes replaced buttons with better quality and more distinctive buttons. My ex-husband had real gold monogram buttons for his navy blazers, which I would remove and transfer to a new blazer as needed. But you have to sew them on carefully

Great tips Audrey! Thank you.

I would love to have more videos with advice like this!

Please make a video on how to recognize low quality buttons! I though some you showed as the cheap examples looked great and I would really like to understand this more

Even though I agree with 'some of these colours already looked washed out', I have to say, for someone with the skintone of a bleached swan, I prefer to walk around with softer-bright colours, as opposed to bright blue. I mean, I recently bought a proper bright-blue jacket and it's great, but whenever I wear it, I just look 10 years old, and very pale because it is SO bright and I am SO pale.

Thank you Audrey for sharing these priceless tips! 🤗💐

Thank Audrey ,these tips are useful .❤️

Love this kind of videos! Would ve great to whatch the others you have planned 🙏☺️

Love these tips. You look gorgeous🌸

I might have to do some browsing of your videos (because I feel like you've done a tailoring video before), but I'd love a video all about tailoring, and not just for something like a suit jacket or fancier items, but maybe some items that are more casual or every day that could really benefit from good tailoring. And (aside from you mentioning in this video about leather or suede jackets in this video) some other articles of clothing that really can't be tailored, or are very hard to work with, whether it's because of the shapes of the pieces or the actual material etc. I just have no idea where to start if I wanted to get pieces done. I'm very tall, so I tend to have to buy larger things to get most of the problem areas fitted properly, and while I like a baggier look for the most part, I'm sure there's a few pieces that would benefit from a bit of a polish!

I have been exchanging cheap buttons for better quality buttons for 40 years. It definitely helps!!!

Thank you Audrey. Great points to remember when shopping for a few key pieces that are needed in my fall/winter wardrobe.

Just washed a pair of expensive pants for the first time today. Followed the care instructions. And now the seams are puckered. I don’t believe they were originally - I believe the thread shrunk at a faster rate than the fabric. Shoot

Loved this video. Thanks!💗💗

Thanks for these instructural videos. The important aspects of curation of a wardrobe are planning, time and patience. If we remember that patience will bring reward, then our choices will be carefully and thoughtfully made. Keep up the good work.

One reason to buy from a good consignment or thrift shop is you can see how something fared after being worn and/or washed. I have also had good luck with buying used on eBay in brands where I know my size

Top tip for zip sliders/rivets - clear nail varnish, or repaint them with coloured and seal with clear. Were all different though right - I mean if you like a 'trendy' piece with coloured zips, who's to say it can't be part of your signature style? Also, I have a stash of vintage buttons for replacing cheap-looking ones - they can honesty be all that's needed when the fabric, cut and construction are good - it's frequently where manufacturers try and save money.