Absolutely! I think its way better to spend hours going through several thrift shops until you find what you truly like and is of good quality, instead of looking for a quick convenient purchase that is poor quality and will be unwearable in a season..
I agree with no loyalty to brands! Many brands have a few good quality items but not everything has the same fit or fabric quality! And yes I haven’t bought anything new the last couple of years because I shop good quality on discount! Trends change so fast (hence fast fashion) it’s not worth buying anything anymore! 😊❤
Thank you Zoe Hong for sharing all you do on your channel! Funny when I was a teenager I heard someone say "when you don't know that you don't know" and I did not understand what that meant. It is good that Fashion has become so influential but at the same time the quality ends up suffering all around. It is good to learn from you things like "tolerances" in clothing manufacturing because so true how one pair of pants fit you and then another from the same brand and size fits oddly.
Oops! Had to pause when said “it’s not a good idea to triple stitch leather”. I completely agree! I’ve always thought that weakens the leather because of the needle point . I’m glad I’m not the only one who thinks that way! 😂
I don't know if they got lazy over time, but I was surprised when I started wearing several items from Everlane (summer dresses) in my daily rotation; they were all cotton and none of them were color fast; I washed them in cold water and they faded very quickly and each required being washed as their own load of laundry because the color catcher sheets kept getting full of dye (like really, really dark saturation). They also needed much more time in the dryer to actually become non-damp (I live in a very moldy place, so it's important not to allow things remain wet for days on yet). Overall the construction was top-notch, but I was really confused by the material choice and how "non-casual" of an experience it was to wash them; I was putting the same amount of time/effort into getting them clean as a special occasion piece (like a LBD in a touchy fabric blend or something) but they were super-casual items meant for everyday. It really confused me, because I felt like the actual "work" involved with dealing with the garments and the brand's "image" didn't line-up well. Since then I still visit the store to window-shop / browse to see what they are up to, but I'm very hesitant to buy anything again just because I now associate their products with a bunch of excessive effort. I feel like I would rather take that effort and place it into what I'll wear for a wedding or a family holiday, instead of something I'll wear twice or once a week. By contrast, I have found that Eileen Fisher produces clothes that are nowhere near as "exciting" or "fun" in design, but they are super easy to care for and just "work" without question. I would not recommend a full Fisher wardrobe, but I would recommend key basics from them, specifically, as a good investment; They cut everything in a very loose, plain shapes but are really good at sourcing unique fabrics that are easy to understand; the cotton knits are easy-care like any cotton knits without question and then the obviously "fanicer" fabrications obviously require extra effort. They seem to make the intentional effort to not cross the streams; you know by the pictures and the description exactly what to expect (positive or negative) and it just matches that expectation without any odd surprises.
Patagonia is probably the closest clothing company I trust. Mainly because they have to perform in outdoor conditions. They are not on the cutting edge of design or silhouettes but their construction details and material types have not let me down yet. Plus if there’s any issues they will repair it for you or you can return it no questions asked. You are right tho. There are differences between the same product and different lines AND years. You have to be more aware as a shopper of clothing…but I feel like the general public is not wanting to do that.
Good day to you, Madam Zoe, and to all you wonderful folks! Love the hat. You consistently provide informative, must-watch content, and you never fail to make me laugh. Keep it up, Madam.
Thanks Zoe, I always learn something new. I loved my Uniqlo t-shirts and then I purchased long sleeve tops and the sleeves and hem stretched 5cm when i washed them. Now I know why.
Great video and to your point, I sometimes find a better quality garment at a factory store than the retail store. You have to look at each garment and decide what is your tolerance.
Yes, factory store garments are their own department in brands now. Used to be outlet shops with cast offs but they are making new products purposely for these shops now.
I’m loyal to Levi’s men’s jeans (1st off, pockets, duh) and I only buy them at HQ or online (I can order online as the sizing is the same as instore) as dept stores don’t have the same quality. I will buy a women’s jacket if they have inside pockets, again at HQ. If they have a tshirt on sale and I like the print I’ll buy it (turns out they are much better quality than the gap). If I want a jean that’s more designer then I’m gonna have to make it. I always add better pockets! I’ve learned to read labels on my clothing which means I’m not even trying on the majority of clothing I think I want due to fiber content…..
I'm loyal to quality - period. I have a stable of shops I like to try to find that quality in, but the brands themselves lost my loyalty yearrrrssss ago.
Yes! Please do a video n quality. The more details, the better! Levi Strauss broke me out of brand loyalty in the early 80s. The lack of standardization in the same jeans is still a huge problem and most prevalent that I've run across. Their signature collection for discount stores Doesn't have the issue that the more expensive and prestige brand has. My only brand loyalty is to myself. Since I am every department and all garments are cut and made by me, I know what I'm getting. Plus I have more fun with my clothes because each piece is made for me. I still buy a few things but not as much as I used to and don't care about status. My Goth/Punk Hanbok has my mother and that side of the family screaming about it a few years after the fact. Made matching ones for my.daughter and grandson too. Now and then I make something for a customer and they are always thrilled.
Thank you! Your videos are always so informative and I appreciate how open you are about your experience being an insider and what you know and have seen in the industry
I've wondered what specifically you mean when you talk about advanced pattern drafting. I know you've mentioned production pattern optimizing, but what other specializations are there? What would I look for in a school's curriculum?
Pattern makers often specialize according to fabric category, like leather outerwear, cut and sew knits, mens suiting, etc. And also 2-3 related categories. Fashion schools will touch on patterns for as many categories as possible so you get a taste of everything. Most fashion schools for a *fashion design degree* will not offer enough pattern classes so you can go into the field right out of school.
Most perfumes are made by L'Oreal!! The brands don't even make them!! Prada YSL Ralph Lauren Margiela Armani Valentino and so many more ALL MADE BY L'OREAL!! It's crazy. That's probably why they're able to stay consistent. Because the brands aren't even really involved it's all outsourced.
Companies I think that dropped quality are: Espirit (they went under), The Gap, Banana Republic. I really loved so much of BR for work clothing but they just didn’t hold up in later years.
I think top is to be sure they dont sneak modification and you can stop payment or change thibgs before it hits land distro. Ive heard stories from sourcing going at it with negotiations
Yeah, I've never stood behind a specific brand. All my expensive stuff is researched by the category, and I do have multiple pieces from some brands that I sort of kind of trust for x category, but I don't think I could ever make a blanket endorsement. Maybe it's because I've worked in product development all my professional life (not apparel), but that skepticism is always in me because I know how brands generally think. Sidenote: I feel very similarly about music. I've definitely noticed a trend where certain artists will get lazy with production and vocals, and now it feels like it feels like it's become acceptable to have this kind of quality... like the fast fashion era of music is upon us. But if people want to continue to buy it, who am I to judge?
I need to feel fabrics, see how items fit, etc so I hate shopping online as I hate returning stuff. I feel like there’s no difference between thrift shopping or dept stores these days….. I go shopping and return empty handed…
The only brand I'm loyal to is Fluevog shoes. They have had some quality control issues and their customer service is top notch, so most issues get sorted out. From your video, I can see why no matter how committed the brand is to producing quality, poop happens.
Quality nowadays is non existent unless the price is $$$$ , and still that quality is not worth the full price, I’ve seen designers pieces from the 80s and 90s on vintage stores and it’s unbelievable how different quality was back then
I buy new clothes from 1 company, because they are the only ones that fit me. Also thrift stores, because I feel so much less guilty if I need to cut ut up for something else.
Hermès is the only brand I think we should be loyal to: they're the only brand that double hand-stitches leather. And buying their other products often leads to a Birkin!
I have a question, how do you ensure that the pattern placement on each garment is consistent? What technique or process do you use to achieve uniformity across multiple pieces? This might seem obvious to others but I know nothing of fashion.
Feeling like we owe brands is kinda like youtubeurs creating patreons, no shade intended. It’s kinda like the other way around but the feeling is the same. Also measuring a waistline with no waist seam ??? If there’s a trick I’d like to know !
Look... im still running into people whi needs everything hand held and visual and lack tech basics ie how to change colors in AI and PS or not save all your files all loose on desktop... now the company wants 3d and I'm like, good luck to them! I was an animation games minor and if they can't visualize now or do basic cloud plm, I don't see how they going to get their mind to click with 3d
The only brand you should be loyal to are shoes. Comfortable shoes that fit your feet well. There is nothing better than a good fitting every day shoe. As I get older I am very picky about the way my shoes fit. Not so much how they look…who cares…my feet feel good!
![[PODCAST] EP 8: What is Quiet Luxury?](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/MFqrOGZKm7o/mqdefault.jpg)
When it comes to clothes, I'm loyal to thrift stores and my sewing machine.
THIS
Absolutely! I think its way better to spend hours going through several thrift shops until you find what you truly like and is of good quality, instead of looking for a quick convenient purchase that is poor quality and will be unwearable in a season..
Same!!! Buy thrift clothes, then, upcycle.
I agree with no loyalty to brands! Many brands have a few good quality items but not everything has the same fit or fabric quality! And yes I haven’t bought anything new the last couple of years because I shop good quality on discount! Trends change so fast (hence fast fashion) it’s not worth buying anything anymore! 😊❤
So interesting to hear how much quality can change based on department and even the store! thanks for sharing
Thank you Zoe Hong for sharing all you do on your channel! Funny when I was a teenager I heard someone say "when you don't know that you don't know" and I did not understand what that meant. It is good that Fashion has become so influential but at the same time the quality ends up suffering all around. It is good to learn from you things like "tolerances" in clothing manufacturing because so true how one pair of pants fit you and then another from the same brand and size fits oddly.
Oops! Had to pause when said “it’s not a good idea to triple stitch leather”. I completely agree! I’ve always thought that weakens the leather because of the needle point . I’m glad I’m not the only one who thinks that way! 😂
Just commenting to vote for Zoe to release a video on how to spot quality garments when shopping.
I don't know if they got lazy over time, but I was surprised when I started wearing several items from Everlane (summer dresses) in my daily rotation; they were all cotton and none of them were color fast; I washed them in cold water and they faded very quickly and each required being washed as their own load of laundry because the color catcher sheets kept getting full of dye (like really, really dark saturation). They also needed much more time in the dryer to actually become non-damp (I live in a very moldy place, so it's important not to allow things remain wet for days on yet). Overall the construction was top-notch, but I was really confused by the material choice and how "non-casual" of an experience it was to wash them; I was putting the same amount of time/effort into getting them clean as a special occasion piece (like a LBD in a touchy fabric blend or something) but they were super-casual items meant for everyday. It really confused me, because I felt like the actual "work" involved with dealing with the garments and the brand's "image" didn't line-up well.
Since then I still visit the store to window-shop / browse to see what they are up to, but I'm very hesitant to buy anything again just because I now associate their products with a bunch of excessive effort. I feel like I would rather take that effort and place it into what I'll wear for a wedding or a family holiday, instead of something I'll wear twice or once a week.
By contrast, I have found that Eileen Fisher produces clothes that are nowhere near as "exciting" or "fun" in design, but they are super easy to care for and just "work" without question. I would not recommend a full Fisher wardrobe, but I would recommend key basics from them, specifically, as a good investment; They cut everything in a very loose, plain shapes but are really good at sourcing unique fabrics that are easy to understand; the cotton knits are easy-care like any cotton knits without question and then the obviously "fanicer" fabrications obviously require extra effort. They seem to make the intentional effort to not cross the streams; you know by the pictures and the description exactly what to expect (positive or negative) and it just matches that expectation without any odd surprises.
Came for the sass, left with some knowledge. 👑
If you do smock leather, please let us see it haha
Unhinged and articulate.. fav combo
This might be my favorite compliment of all time.
Patagonia is probably the closest clothing company I trust. Mainly because they have to perform in outdoor conditions. They are not on the cutting edge of design or silhouettes but their construction details and material types have not let me down yet. Plus if there’s any issues they will repair it for you or you can return it no questions asked. You are right tho. There are differences between the same product and different lines AND years. You have to be more aware as a shopper of clothing…but I feel like the general public is not wanting to do that.
Same
OMG the videos are always so insightful. Once you start you gotta watch till the end. Love them
Good day to you, Madam Zoe, and to all you wonderful folks! Love the hat. You consistently provide informative, must-watch content, and you never fail to make me laugh. Keep it up, Madam.
Thank you!
I want the long, geeky, deep dive answer! ❤
Also, commenting for the algorithm ❤
Pleaseeee make the quality playlist
YES! I second this!
Nothing to add, but just had to leave a supportive comment! You're an amazing creator and teacher!
Very insightful! Please don’t stop making these videos 🙏
Thanks Zoe, I always learn something new. I loved my Uniqlo t-shirts and then I purchased long sleeve tops and the sleeves and hem stretched 5cm when i washed them. Now I know why.
Great video and to your point, I sometimes find a better quality garment at a factory store than the retail store. You have to look at each garment and decide what is your tolerance.
Yes, factory store garments are their own department in brands now. Used to be outlet shops with cast offs but they are making new products purposely for these shops now.
All the LVMH brands 😂
Any of the corporate/conglomerate fashion brands, truly
Yep
I’m loyal to Levi’s men’s jeans (1st off, pockets, duh) and I only buy them at HQ or online (I can order online as the sizing is the same as instore) as dept stores don’t have the same quality. I will buy a women’s jacket if they have inside pockets, again at HQ. If they have a tshirt on sale and I like the print I’ll buy it (turns out they are much better quality than the gap). If I want a jean that’s more designer then I’m gonna have to make it. I always add better pockets! I’ve learned to read labels on my clothing which means I’m not even trying on the majority of clothing I think I want due to fiber content…..
I'm loyal to quality - period. I have a stable of shops I like to try to find that quality in, but the brands themselves lost my loyalty yearrrrssss ago.
Yes! Please do a video n quality. The more details, the better!
Levi Strauss broke me out of brand loyalty in the early 80s. The lack of standardization in the same jeans is still a huge problem and most prevalent that I've run across. Their signature collection for discount stores Doesn't have the issue that the more expensive and prestige brand has.
My only brand loyalty is to myself. Since I am every department and all garments are cut and made by me, I know what I'm getting. Plus I have more fun with my clothes because each piece is made for me. I still buy a few things but not as much as I used to and don't care about status. My Goth/Punk Hanbok has my mother and that side of the family screaming about it a few years after the fact. Made matching ones for my.daughter and grandson too.
Now and then I make something for a customer and they are always thrilled.
I discovered you recently but i ABSOLUTELY love your content! You are so knowledgable and so fun to listen and watch! ❤❤❤
Wow, you answered some questions I have had for so long
Thank you 🎉🎉🎉
Thank you! Your videos are always so informative and I appreciate how open you are about your experience being an insider and what you know and have seen in the industry
I find more quality in vintage and second hand.....that's where my loyalty lays.
Yess plzz give us more videos about quality
I've wondered what specifically you mean when you talk about advanced pattern drafting. I know you've mentioned production pattern optimizing, but what other specializations are there? What would I look for in a school's curriculum?
Pattern makers often specialize according to fabric category, like leather outerwear, cut and sew knits, mens suiting, etc. And also 2-3 related categories. Fashion schools will touch on patterns for as many categories as possible so you get a taste of everything. Most fashion schools for a *fashion design degree* will not offer enough pattern classes so you can go into the field right out of school.
Perhaps the perfume department keeps the company afloat
Most perfumes are made by L'Oreal!! The brands don't even make them!! Prada YSL Ralph Lauren Margiela Armani Valentino and so many more ALL MADE BY L'OREAL!! It's crazy. That's probably why they're able to stay consistent. Because the brands aren't even really involved it's all outsourced.
Any category where sizing/fit isn't an issue tends to sell better: bags, beauty, other small accessories
THANK YOU , EXACTLY 🎉
Lol
Clothing quality! Clothing quality! Clothing quality! Video!
Companies I think that dropped quality are: Espirit (they went under), The Gap, Banana Republic. I really loved so much of BR for work clothing but they just didn’t hold up in later years.
Interesting as always! Thank you ❤
I think top is to be sure they dont sneak modification and you can stop payment or change thibgs before it hits land distro. Ive heard stories from sourcing going at it with negotiations
Please do a part 2
Great video - thank you & thumbs up!
Yeah, I've never stood behind a specific brand. All my expensive stuff is researched by the category, and I do have multiple pieces from some brands that I sort of kind of trust for x category, but I don't think I could ever make a blanket endorsement. Maybe it's because I've worked in product development all my professional life (not apparel), but that skepticism is always in me because I know how brands generally think. Sidenote: I feel very similarly about music. I've definitely noticed a trend where certain artists will get lazy with production and vocals, and now it feels like it feels like it's become acceptable to have this kind of quality... like the fast fashion era of music is upon us. But if people want to continue to buy it, who am I to judge?
I need to feel fabrics, see how items fit, etc so I hate shopping online as I hate returning stuff. I feel like there’s no difference between thrift shopping or dept stores these days….. I go shopping and return empty handed…
The only brand I'm loyal to is Fluevog shoes. They have had some quality control issues and their customer service is top notch, so most issues get sorted out. From your video, I can see why no matter how committed the brand is to producing quality, poop happens.
Gurl, I'm loveM that hat. You are rocking itttt! Did you make it?
nope!
another great video
Thanks again!
@@zoehongteaches its so hard to think of original comments for every video
I appreciate the effort!
Who is that TikTok girl talking about fibers mentionned at 05:16 ?
Jenna Lyons, the former creative director and president of J Crew.
Quality nowadays is non existent unless the price is $$$$ , and still that quality is not worth the full price, I’ve seen designers pieces from the 80s and 90s on vintage stores and it’s unbelievable how different quality was back then
can you do a video on how to make a sleeve
I buy new clothes from 1 company, because they are the only ones that fit me. Also thrift stores, because I feel so much less guilty if I need to cut ut up for something else.
Hermès is the only brand I think we should be loyal to:
they're the only brand that double hand-stitches leather.
And buying their other products often leads to a Birkin!
I have a question, how do you ensure that the pattern placement on each garment is consistent? What technique or process do you use to achieve uniformity across multiple pieces? This might seem obvious to others but I know nothing of fashion.
? You mean matching stripes? You notch the pattern at the tops of a stripe as the stripe match notch. You notch the pattern to specify placement.
hello queen ❤
Feeling like we owe brands is kinda like youtubeurs creating patreons, no shade intended. It’s kinda like the other way around but the feeling is the same. Also measuring a waistline with no waist seam ??? If there’s a trick I’d like to know !
Look... im still running into people whi needs everything hand held and visual and lack tech basics ie how to change colors in AI and PS or not save all your files all loose on desktop... now the company wants 3d and I'm like, good luck to them! I was an animation games minor and if they can't visualize now or do basic cloud plm, I don't see how they going to get their mind to click with 3d
Hi Zoe, hope all is well! I can’t find the video on the fitting the corset and how to finish it
I never finished the series because people lost interest.
Oh no, I didn’t I think it was wonderful any suggestions on how I can finish it?
Sorry people looses interest on things
Could you please recommend the best tablets or iPads suitable for fashion design work? Which specific brands and models would you suggest?
The only brand you should be loyal to are shoes. Comfortable shoes that fit your feet well. There is nothing better than a good fitting every day shoe. As I get older I am very picky about the way my shoes fit. Not so much how they look…who cares…my feet feel good!
Zoe, can you make more videos going over quality? :D
Where do I get that hat?
They call this style a captain's hat. Look up sequined captain's hat. I've had this so long I forget where I got it.
❤❤❤
Please more videos on clothing quality. You give masterful commentary.
Quality videos plss!!
I immediately thought of Chanel lol
Who on Tiktok about fibres?
Jenna Lyons, the former creative director and president of J Crew.
@@zoehongteaches Thank you.
Balenciaga is a social experiment😂
Can you lose the hat? It looks ridiculous and i say this as a fan.
Boo!! 🍅🍅🍅 We LOVE the hat!
Well. You just don't understand fashion. 👒👠🍍🐸📎
Please teach us how to look for quality in garments. Hate Ticktok!