I'm very glad to see the fast fashion within this list. While teaching my students about fashion business models, I had them do a project task to have wardrobe inventory review and by the same calculations you mention, it was proven again and again just how exactly fast fashion wardrobe is more expensive to keep and maintain than wardrobe with clothes made in quality in mind, even if the initial price tag is a lot higher.
Great point! I work for a charity and we sell recycled clothes in our shops...we recently did some work on the environmental cost of fast fashion and the results were eye opening. To produce a pair of jeans needs about 10,000 litres of water. If you drink a litre per day it would take you over 27 years to drink it.....for ONE pair of jeans.
@@philipmiller8462 You can usually reserve a seat on second class too. Whether there will be someone sitting in it when you get there and whether they'll move when you tell them are another matter.
NY'r living in Frankfurt. I found the same target applies here as well. It's not that you receive awesome amenities. It's that you don't have to be pressed in with the masses. Back in the day, when I was a heavy DB passenger spending about 500€ a month,, travelling 1st class was worth the extra price
One of the most effective ways to lose money, is to make a habit of spending it, in an effort to convince other people that you have it. Confine your luxury spending to items/services that you really enjoy for their own sake, and that are good quality for the money.
I'm a big fan of The North Face. I've been a fan of them since 1991 when I was a ski instructor. I'm still a skier and still wearing their stuff. Good quality, moderately priced and guaranteed. They really do guarantee their products. I have returned items 7 times over the years and they have been repaired or replaced.
I've got a couple of NF jackets. A soft-shell one and a waterproof lightweight "anorak" type one, both gifted to me. I used to do a lot of hiking/rambling but not so much now. They are both really good quality coats that do the job. The bottom part of the zip on the waterproof became faulty though and I ended up having to get it repaired and a new zipper put on, which was disappointing. I prefer it now anyway as the original zip was "wrong-handed" so now it zips up the same way as most other jackets.
100% agree with these choices. I dated a fashion major in college and she used to say “buy an item based on what that companies reputation is based on” LV = handbags, Armani =suits, Burberry scarves and trench coats 🧥 I.e. buying a Louis Vuitton belt or pair of shoes is a waste of money
That’s often times true, but usually the other way around when it comes to fragrances. Many designer brands have great fragrances, while fragrance brands like Creed and Roja usually make overrated, poor value products with mediocre performance.
Hi, the girls you dated gave you some great advice, and it is so true. Do Dyson make cars? No, so why would I buy one with Dyson on it? Luckily, James Dyson realised this and scrapped his car building idea.
Years ago, I was told by an old Gentleman, that true Gentlemen DO NOT advertise for "brands" and that it's incredibly de classe' to wear "logos". I haven't done anything like it in 40 years. If a piece of clothing or an accessory is high quality, it doesn't need the "branding" emblazoned all over it. I've also found that because many articles are branded, that go out of fashion easier than those that aren't. Something else that one learns as time goes by, sometimes an article that costs $20 turns out to be much more of a value and is infinitely more serviceable than an article that costs one $200. Just my observations. Cheers, Gents!
I made my own leather duffle bag from 3/4 oz leather and leather briefcase with 4/5 oz leather. The briefcase / messenger bag is all hand stitched, and the duffel bag is hand stitched and I also used my hand crank sewing machine for the ends of the duffel bag. It was a about $200 each for materiel and around 40 hours each for labour, a far cry from fast fashion. They will both last me a lot longer than any Louis Vuitton bag. I always stamp the year on my handmade leather projects, so if I ever have grandchildren they will be able to know how old the projects are. Thanks for the video. Roger
You are 100% correct for watches, if someone is going to spend any amount of money they just have to do a little bit of research. A $200 Seiko will out preform a $1500 Gucci watch every time. If you want to show off a watch then go with the brands that people respect from many different price ranges, whether it's a $60 Casio, $200 Seiko, $1k Longines, $5k Omega up through Rolex, AP, Patek... Watch people are impressed by quality, heritage, craftsmanship, and complications, not a luxury brand that doesn't focus specifically on watches slapping their name on the dial.
Outperform it in what? Keeping time? Really? Watches are jewelry. They are all about aesthetics and status symbols, nowadays they have no functionality. Of course there are better watches in terms of quality and mechanism instead of gucci in this price range, but there’s no point to compare a gucci with a Casio. You won’t buy a Rolex to tell the time, you buy it for the looks and the status
@@johndinos3082 For mechanical watches you definitely see a difference, high end watch makers create movements that can be +/- 2 seconds a day or brands like Grand Seiko which are +/- 15 seconds a month! A generic movement from china is off 45 seconds a day so if you don't set it every day your time will be off a ton after a while. Everyone knows a phone tells better time but for many watch collecting is a passion but you would have to be a watch person to understand, the same way that some people are into cars and having a regular sedan won't satisfy their hobby. A Mazda CX-5 (which I own) works just as well as a BMX X-3, but I test drove the X-3 and wow was that fun to drive in comparison and certainly preformed better on the road than my car.
I can’t get behind Uniqlo being considered fast fashion, I’ve “cheap” t shirts, chinos, denim, hoodies, sweaters, dress shirts and mesh polos, which I’ve worn for years. The quality for the most part holds up.
Totally agree. They're a great value and make lots of classic stuff with 100% natural materials (e.g. wool sweaters). I don't think GG knows much about the brand. Also, just have to say, it's hard to take style advice from someone who wears blazers that are obviously 3 sizes too small.
I was about to comment the same thing - they are a fair bit more pricey than the other brands on that list, and I have many items from there that have held up for years. If you can't afford $345 dollars for gloves (most people can't!) UniQlo provides reliable and simple style for a slightly increased price.
@@harrylagerlof1751 no, I'm talking about the guy who wears tiny little blazers that look like they're from his little brother 😂 don't cover his bum even a little!
You could have done the number one obvious one....Designer clothes! Often more expensive than a bespoke option...my pet peeve is designer t-shirts. I was in a posh shop once and pointed out to the shop assistant that I could fly from the UK to North Africa and back 3 times for the price of a t-shirt (made in Vietnam). Shocking!!
I think your conclusion that synthetic filled puffer jackets are bad is a little hasty. 100% down indeed offers the best insulation for its weight, but will completely lose its heat-trapping capacity when wet. This means that if your coat is not treated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating, and if you're not wearing a waterproof (this is different than water resistant!) shell jacket, you will still be cold in the rain, even with the most expensive, highest quality 100% down jacket. In outdoor sports, warm down jackets are usually saved for 'static' activities, such as resting at camp or taking a break from a hike in cold weather. Synthetic insulation is often used as a mid layer to keep you warm during activity.
I collect watches and agree 100 percent with your assessment of fashion watches. There are non-fashion brands that make really good mechanical (non-quartz) watches for reasonable prices. At the low-end Timex come to mind. Go a tad higher and Seiko and Hamilton mechanical watches are fantastic, especially Seiko. Go a little higher and Oris and Tissot have some great models. After that, of course, the sky is the limit!
I completely agree, also Citizen doesn't get enough love I feel. Often times I only see the really busy pilot chronographs on sale here in the UK which really does a disservice to their more elegant and higher end models. I believe a lot of the fashion brands contract companies like Fossil to produce a range of watches for them, and the results are often very uninspired.
I have a Seiko kinetic dive watch. The bezel and glass are now well scratched, but I have worn it in somewhat extreme conditions you would not dare wear an expensive watch. It is on the way to paying for itself with the saving on batteries and the cost of having it pressure tested every time you change the battery.
Kyle, I totally agree with you about the alcoholic drinks. For example, my wife and I enjoy Asti Spumante over champagne because we like sweetness over dry when it comes to wines. So we enjoy our $15 bottle of Asti and use the savings for other fun stuff.
Here are eight expensive menswear items that some people may feel are not worth the investment: Branded sneakers: While some designer sneakers may be well-made, the high price tag often comes from the brand name rather than the quality of the shoe. Logo-covered clothing: Similar to branded sneakers, clothing with prominent logos or branding can often be expensive simply because of the brand name, rather than the quality of the garment. Novelty ties: Ties with quirky patterns or designs can be fun, but they're not always appropriate for formal or professional settings, making them a less versatile option. Designer socks: While high-quality socks can make a difference in comfort and durability, designer socks can be expensive without necessarily providing significant benefits over less expensive options. Trendy sunglasses: Sunglasses with trendy designs or logos can be expensive, but they may quickly go out of style or not provide adequate protection from the sun. Overpriced basics: Basic items like plain t-shirts or hoodies can be expensive when branded by designer labels, but there are plenty of affordable options that are just as well-made. High-end belts: While a well-made leather belt is important for both functionality and style, expensive designer belts may not be worth the investment when there are plenty of high-quality options at more reasonable prices. Flashy watches: Watches with lots of features or intricate designs can be expensive, but they may not always be practical or necessary for everyday wear.
Had a shot (or two) of my best Scotch (about $200 a bottle) the other night. Wanted another glass, but poured it from my $80 bottle. Took a sip, forgetting I poured it from the cheaper botttle. The difference was very noticeable! I liked the more expensive so much better! Unfortunately.
Here in Ireland, it's an open secret that many of the premium whiskey brands source their products from the same one or two large distilleries. Conor McGregor (of UFC fame) launched a premium brand that was actually (very non-premium) Bushmills whiskey in a fancy bottle. And other brands source their products from bulk manufacturers like the Great Northern Distillery. 9 times out of 10, that premium price is just marketing and bears no relationship at all to what's actually in the bottle.
Yes. I usually find the same when it comes to whiskey. The more expensive stuff is usually noticeably better. There is great cheaper stuff that offers good value but for an enthusiast the higher price tag is usually worth it! Wine is a bit more tricky in my experience but I would say that there is a pattern too where you really get much better stuff for more money. To a certain degree at least.
@@user-vx2wp1ez5s Anyone who gives $$ to a POS person like him deserves to get scammed lol. I hate him getting $$ but I LOVE his idiot fanbois losing it for a literal 'bottom of the barrel' whiskey while fooling themselves into thinking it makes them luxurious and cultured haha.
-I remember picking up and inspecting an LV bag back in high school, my jaw dropped when i saw it wasn't even leather. -Had a flight once and the only difference between 1st class and other seats was the duct tape on the floor marking the division of classes. I do however like what I call Phony Phirst Class on Spirit. For about $30 extra you get a large comfortable seat with your companion (no third seat in the row). -In mixed drinks it's almost impossible to tell if the liquor is top shelf or bottom. In fact many distillers sell premium and low end brands and the only actual difference is the bottle
Working for a manufacturing company (metal parts), I have my finger on the pulse of how a thing is made and all that goes into it. And in general, I'm sick to death of how advertising and marketing of just about anything and everything in America seems to be a hit piece on how to deceive the potential buyer. One has to become a professional at picking up the scent of poo to even get through life without losing it all.
Yep. On any expensive item like a bag, always research alternatives. I bought a Hartmann leather briefcase for less than $300, free lifetime repairs, superior in quality in every way to the LV duffle shown. For luggage, Briggs & Riley can be had for prices equal to their competition while also offering lifetime repairs. I'll spend the money if it's a "one and done" type of purchase.
I live in the cold part of Australia, Tasmania, and the puffer jacket is a staple article of clothing here during the winter. Particularly in the colour black. Its become so widespread that it's known as "The Tassie Tuxedo" which hurts my soul in more ways then one 😄
As a man who wears a suit almost everyday I’ve been watching your stuff for years. I have to disagree with some of your points. First class is important if it’s a long trip or you are a larger person. I have had nothing but great experiences in first class. In terms of liquor there is a big difference between great scotch, wine, etc and generic stuff. In terms of watches, anyone who knows anything about watches knows that brands like IWC, Patek, Breguet, Rolex(until recently) and others are worth every penny. In terms of good luggage, just get TUMI.
Great vid,and I agree on most accounts. I would say that synthetic fill jackets can be as good if not better than down in some circumstances. Having done two winter tours of the falklands,one in the Balkans and work in the far north of Scotland, synthetic jackets like Montanes extreme smock or the ever fabulous (and pretty inexpensive) Snugpak softie are unbeatable. Buffalo mountain shirts are good too. All will keep you warm even if wet,dry out quick and are windproof. I love my down jackets,but they just aren't as weather resilient . I use these jackets in active tactical law enforcement jobs,out in all weather's and swear by them. Don't write synthetic fill off😉
Agreed, especially on the watches. You guys nailed it with recommending the Casio Duro as an alternative to junk fashion watches and drop-ship kickstarter brands.
not sure about the fast fashion. When I was broke, I wore a lot of H&M. I had some t-shirts from there that I wore weekly for years. Jeans are a different story since they take more of a beating and can't stand up to it. There's a difference between fast fashion products and the fast fashion lifestyle, not all of us are buying those brands just to wear once for an Insta photo and then throw them away.
I will say this about fast fashion. I struggled for a large part of my 20’s and had to live out of a backpack or lose most of my belongings quite often. Fast fashion had its place.
Zipair is the cheapest way if you are near certain airports. It's an offshoot of JAL. Even the lay flat business class is 2k. Downside is nickel and diming.
I liked the article. It would be good to mention that if you can purchase the vintage version of some of these items, like Gucci bags or classic luggage, it can be a once in a lifetime purchase and worth the price.
Oh the LV bag, believe me I tried convincing my oldest son that for the price it's not worth it. First-Class when I have to fly is the only way I do fly so for me it's worth every penny lol. Yes, my son does enjoy flying first-class when I'm paying.
As a UK viewer, I absolutely applaud your highlighting of how overpriced and, frankly, rubbish our railway service is in the UK. Even Standard Class is expensive on longer journeys, which gives you an idea of the kind of value you are (not) getting. I will point out though, that the carriages you featured are only from one specific operator. Some of the First Class sections on other train services are a bit better, but not by much! The main benefit is that you get to sit away from everyone else, you get a table, and on some services you get food and drink brought to you. First class sections are often empty though, and that's a different debate as I've often seen overcrowded trains with nobody sitting in FC...
I got a good look at my aunt's new LV bag a few years ago (2018?)---yep it was super chince. I had no idea that LV was once a legit manufacturer though. I'd always figured they were just a marketing company. As for fashion-watches, I bet some of those make the watchmakers cry when they come in for servicing.
I agree with most of what you are saying. The one minor difference I would have with you is when come to first class travel. Then I think it is more about what you are going to be getting for your money, and then deciding if it is worth it to you. A quick jump flight between LA and SF, probably not. Across the USA? Having a seat that is actually comfortable a full meal and a charging port for my starts to seem like it is worth the extra cost.
I agree 100% with the watch segment. Most fashion brand watches have the quality of a 20 bucks no-name watch. It's such a shame because there are so many amazing watches for less money from reputable brands - sometimes even with a similar design. I personally always recommend Orient.
@@filippomonaco2303 If you want to got vintage with the aesthetic and the potential problems that come with used watches: Definitely a great choice. I struggle with finding a reputable seller with good prices. That's why I've not bought a vintage watch myself yet.
@@filippomonaco2303 i'm a newbie watch hobbyist, so far i've learned from many collectors and dealers is that Orient is one of the best affordable watch brands you can buy that's top-notch in quality and craftsmanship(together with Casio and Seiko), and that people don't really want to buy a vintage watch unless they 100% know where it came from and that it's a headache to restore if it's broken. I've also learned that when you buy a Swiss watch, you're not really buying "best value for money" and they're right, you're not exactly thinking about money-value when you're about to part ways with 9,000 USD on a watch, instead you're buying a well-spent reward for yourself for an achievement or milestone you've reached in your career or life, I'd like to buy a Rolex one day, but I haven't reached the point in my career that I consider myself Rolex-successful, although I have the money and have bought things that cost the same as a Rolex(for my business and hobby), but unless it's for a really good reason and achievement, spending 9k USD on one watch, for me, is still unthinkable. In the meantime, I'm enjoying my Casio, G-shock, and Seiko starter collection LOL.
@@aLwE17 there are swiss watch that cost a lot less that 9000 usd. Still if you know what you do teh best value for money is a swiss vintage watch. I had a orient myself, now it feels just a big toy (they make way too big cases), the movement isn't bad, but the details aren't that great. It is good value for 100-150 dollars, but you're still buying a 150 dollars watch. With 150 dollars you can buy a vintage that was more valuable when it was new. Also you talk like there are only g-shok or rolex. Not considering brands like tissot, longines, certina, omega etc.
Fly with Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Ethihad, Air France, Thai Airways and then see what's first class all about. It's about to and fro driver service, fast security clearance, board rooms, concierges, good food and drinks and ultimately comfort so that you arrived with minimal mental and physical fatigue at your destination ready to take on the high profile meetings & businesses.
You forgot to mention Underwear. I got switched from Jockey To USPA. And now wearing Calvin Klein. Out of three USPA has often disappointed me. I have a USPA short that is still functioning without any tear but don't know about their underwears. They seems to get torn apart within a month. However both Jockey and Calvin Klein are holding up pretty well. Jockey was even less expensive than USPA still it managed to survive more the 20 months. CK is also very good. The most expensive one I ever bought but it's still intact.
I agree with everything but the puffer jacket. I think puffer jackets are a trend and I would not have one for wearing around town. It does have its place in the field or in the woods. However, an expensive, good quality jacket with a synthetic fill may be better, especially under wet conditions. Down has no insulating property when wet. Various types of hollow-fill synthetics retain their insulation properties when wet. You have to buy an old-line quality name. Typically, I trust REI to steer me in the right direction.
I prefer to wear a lighter down gillet to go underneath my Barbour if the weather gets too chilly, I prefer the look of cotton and wool jackets as my outer layer compared to puffer jackets, and the outer jacket keeps the down from getting wet.
Except for the down Jacket I agree. Quality down is pretty warm. There are also some nice heritage Brands doing them aswell. I personally barely ever used them but when you are outside in pretty cold areas for a long while, the can be effective.
First Class anywhere outside the United States is Fantastic. In the US it just means a slightly wider seat and cheap wine. First Class is MUCH MORE in other countries. Much More.
Have to (half) disagree with the fast fashion one. If you buy a basic mono-coloured shirt at h&m, uniqlo etc, it will still last multiple years. I have some of those for 15 years now and they still look like recently bought. It's only the non-basic, "trendy" things that have to be replaced every season and thats not because of quality, but fashion-trends. But i don't know if the quality is the same in every country. I can imagine that the quality in the US is worse, because of that "throw away and buy new"-mentality, but here (Germany) a 10$-shirt from those brands will last 10-20 years.
The segment on down jackets is in part an oversimplification. Synthetic down isn’t just ‘knockoff’ down. It should generally be lower price than a high quality natural down, but in certain use cases has huge advantages. It’s less compressible, and gram for gram less warm, but it will retain its insulating properties when wet through, and natural down won’t. It won’t ‘clump’ or smell when it stays damp for extended periods and it is far easier for the average person to care for and more than warm enough for many people. Personally I have both but find myself reaching for synthetic down far more often, and don’t need to have a rainproof layer on me incase of showers. I would agree though it’s worth going for reputable brands for both, and especially for natural down where cheap downs will also involve animal cruelty.
Excellent video and so true. I found this out a few years ago when I bought a leather Michael Kors purse for my wife. The purse fell apart in a few months.
Expensive Japanese style chef’s knives. Most people don’t know how to sharpen and hone them with the correct 70:30 bevel ratio and wind up just ruining them. It’s much better to get a good durable chef’s knife from a restaurant supply store. You can spend less than $50 and also get a honing steel to keep the blade in line between sharpenings.
I agree. I hear people talk about how nice an overpriced set of knives is, but at the end of the day, you're just cutting food with it. So long as it can cut fruits, vegetables, and meats, you're golden. No need to spend hundreds on some special steel.
It's always the people who don't know how to keep their knives sharp that fall for the marketing of the new next sharp knife, they think there's something wrong with their old one and replace it instead of maintaining it properly.
I have to stick up for Uniqlo belts; unlike lots of their stuff, their belts are very good quality leather for rather cheap, and if you have big wrists, you can cut them down and even make some nice bracelets that will last forever and not break the bank.
In The Netherlands, traveling first class on a train almost guarantees you can have a seat and are not bothered by loud talking students or noisy kids. All things being equal, I agree the extra you have to pay for first class doesn't justify it for what you get compared to second class.
I agree with everything but the down jacket segment. Despite this, I agree with what was said in the segment. Down jackets were once a specialized tool for technical outdoor activities. Now, the down insulated jacket or colloquially known "puffy" jacket is for the most part a trend. Now, I work for an outdoor apparel company, and I am and avid hiker, trail runner, Kayaker etc... and I understand the applications, and the reasons for real technical pieces. As a side effect of my employment I own many, many pieces that otherwise I couldn't justify paying for. And, actual pieces made the right way, and made sustainably, are absolutely essential for real high technical endeavors. I probably could do the things I do with cheeper options, but to be frank, it would be at best uncomfortable, and at worst downright life threatening. So yes, for the average consumer a generic or actual high quality down or synthetic jacket is overkill and not worth the steep prices they can command. But, as those who know, know... a high quality pice from brands such as The North Face, Patagonia, Cotopaxi, Mountain Hardware... will last years, and could even save your life.
I bought a white linen shirt for summer at Uniqlo and cannot find anything wrong with it. Will wear it for years. You won't talk me into considering the one from Zegna, 8 times the price. The cotton shirts I owned from this brand did not last very long.
@@gentlemansgazette It was labeled as "fast fashion" which it isn't. And brands like Ralph Lauren or Armani aren't tiny tailor workshops either. I smell snobbishness. ;)
This all depends about your attitude towards stuff you use. I am rolling low budget...so I can’t even buy brand stuff. Or buy those from 2nd hand shops. If new I rather go Zara or Newyorker...and use those until...
The best puffer jackets I have seen are from running clothing companies. As for flying higher class, I have never flown first class, but business class. Some airlines do a really good job. Others, it is worth paying extra to get in the airport lounges with the food and drinks and the nicer chairs on the plane with several movies at your disposal and the ability to recline more than economy. However, some airlines do it way better than others. (Working for GG looks like it would be a fun job, but I already have a full time job I really like.)
Uniqlo isn't fast fashion though. I don't buy shirts anymore because I've been wearing the same bunch of Uniqlo shirts for 10 years now. Also, one thing to check when deciding whether or not to book a first class train ticket is whether the regular seating cars have air conditioning or not. That is sometimes the biggest difference.
When it comes down to wine there is a whole world in between a 5 dollar bottle or a 35 dollar bottle in my opinion. Many Wines at 20 are really good too. Now, 20 bucks 35 bucks might be affordable to you but perhaps not to me. A 100 bucks bottle and a 35 bottle though? The 35 might the real thing for many. In terms of Whiskey the price tag for a good one comes higher. Say you buy a bottle for 50 bucks, well, I struggle to sip that neat in most cases, now most of 100bucks range bottle are nice for me. I said most but mainly referring to the few a tried. The point remains though.
When it comes to clothes I would love to be able to make as much of my own clothes I possibly could . I would make everything from socks and underwear to GoreTex rainwear and winter parkas .
I do that. Gore Tex needs the seams sealed, it’s probably worth paying somebody to do it. Same with socks. You have limited hours to spend tailoring so pick the projects you can do well and understand that paying other people for their craftsmanship is a good thing. Besides, once you learn to knit you’ll wind up with a spinning wheel, then big pots for dye… I know these rabbit holes too well. How you going to finish that suit and go to the day job? Sewing is a great skill and tailoring is an art form. Go for it.
The biggest problem with fast fashion is BRANDED fast fashion. If you buy a shirt with a brand name on it, the quality sucks and it was expensive, that's way worse than if you (like me) buy a ten-pack of fruit of the loom t-shirts for a total of 30€ and basically only wear them for stuff where they'd get dirtied up, like gardening or renovating. I always keep some cheapo-shirts on hand for that. Although fruit of the loom does provide quality at least on par with your average motto or band t-shirt, though at a fraction of the price.
Casio watches are definitely the BEST! I’ve had several that kept perfect time, mistakenly gone through washing machine and/or dryer cycles, been chewed by my dogs - and still worked perfect for circa 10 years! For a $30 item, the wear per year cost amounts to $3! What’s not to like?😁
Kind of disagree with Uniqlo being put in fast fashion. They have good quality products that is offered at a low price and most of the items are wardrobe basic essentials.
Same! I'd say they are mid-range. Definitely not in the wear-once-and-throw-away category. They have a very decent quality wardrobe essentials. I've been wearing their U-label T-shirts for 3 years, and while they are a little faded now, still no rips, tears or sags.
The inclusion is less to do with quality and more to do with volume - after all, Uniqlo focuses on a high level of manufacturing in order to justify the lower upfront costs
I mostly agree on the topic, but I think the issue of fast fashion is more nuanced than this. Of course buying from sustainable, quality brands is objectively better - that's a no-brainer. But when it comes down strictly to cost? I think it really depends on who we're talking about. I'm from a working class background, and so are most of my friends (the ones who weren't are now as they've more or less been disowned). All of us wear fast fashion, not because we like that, but because we can't afford a decent wardrobe at higher prices, and in some cases because finding plus size clothes anywhere else is so hard. And I can attest that that fast fashion is definitely not at a high cost-per-wear. I have shirts in my closet right now that I bought on Ebay as a teenager for around 5 dollars and that still see regular use today, 10 years later. I favor thrifting of course, but you can't just get whatever you like at a thrift shop, so I own a decent amount of fast fashion clothing, and all of it gets worn again and again, and repaired if it's damaged. And when it no longer gets worn, my friends and I tend to get together and exchange clothes we no longer want so they can see more use. The cost per wear of those items is minute over the years because we don't treat our clothes as worthless or disposable - we don't have the income to do that. Instead, we see them as things we enjoy and want to keep enjoying for as long as we can.
@Gentlman'sGazette would love to see a video of 8 or 10 expensive things that really are worth their money it can be luxury designer items like clothing, accessories, jewelry, perfumes etc or i would even love to see a video about expensive suits, how to get suits made for you and how to find a good tailor.
kyle: strong, clear presentation without sounding like a late-night infomercial huckster (at all...). Beautifully dressed. i wondered about travel and luggage and frankly Kyle answered all my questions. Many thanks. PS, "Thibodeau" and its variations is a strong name easily found in eastern Canada - the "french shore" Acadian areas of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Does Kyle have a Lousiana connectiojn? jest askin'... Another excellent video from Gentleman's Gazette produced by intelligent research and commentary. Also, somewhere along the line Gazette has developed a real sense of humour!
I think Uniqlo tees are a step above the rest they last about 2 years for me without looking washed out. I usually also wash my clothes on cold and dry them at the lowest temperature.
The bit in wine doesn’t fit on this list. Of course there are plenty of expensive bottles that don’t produce a quality consistent with their price point but I’d consider this category simply a potential trap if you have a knowledge gap and no access to shop that can guide you. Otherwise, 👌👌👌
Agree with most of this but that LV bag is just gorgeous. Take my money any day of the week. Also leather is heavier than canvas, something to consider.
Stylistically, there's no denying that LV knows what it's doing. To your point, leather may be heavier, but canvas is also cheaper - you can find higher quality canvas bags without the expensive LV price 😉
@@gentlemansgazette unless you've actually bought one and used it for 10-15 years, please dont make yourself look silly speaking on a keep all. You mentioned price per use in this video and I've had 2 keepall's since the 90's and they look and work almost like new. The canvas and hardware shines like it was recently bought. I fly 20+ flights a year so it gets thrown around and put threw conveyor belts etc. What bag do you have that you've used for 10 years? 15 Years? 20 Years? That's the true value of a keep all not sighting the fact that it still gets sooo much attention. The value is in the use and quality of how it was made. Love your channel!
The top is on point and I like it but can you guys make a video about top expensive things worth investing in? I think it would be very educative for some people and also a good refer point
You should make this a regular theme. This subject is of greater importance than a single video can contain. Please do a follow up video. The wise customer will always prefer to pay extra, if they are getting truly greater quality. We trust that GG can educate us?
The interesting thing is that people will pay more for a Haute Couture fashion brand and don't understand that the origin of the brand was made popular by exclusivity. If you are buying a mass produced product, it doesn't matter that you paid a lot, you've overpaid to look like someone else. Once you exceed a certain price, go bespoke or at least MTM with unique materials. Better fit, better materials, unique style and less money.
I wear my fast fashion pieces for years and they still hold up pretty well. I also own expensive pieces that have fallen apart quickly. To each their own.
down jackets are definitely great for exercise and outdoor activities like hiking, hunting etc. Doesn't really seem to have a great place outside of those realms
Do you do a lot of sports? My travel bag is a simple blue sport bag I got got 15 euros, it fits about 3 days of clothing for me I dislike syntetic and feather jackets, so I avoid puffer jackets as a whole
Have to disagree with the jacket thing. It all depends. If you spend good money on a high quality brand where you actually pay for the quality and not only design and brand name you will get a very useful tool that beats the traditional overcoat when it comes to functionality. Of course there is a lot of trash out there and that’s not worth it.
I'm very glad to see the fast fashion within this list. While teaching my students about fashion business models, I had them do a project task to have wardrobe inventory review and by the same calculations you mention, it was proven again and again just how exactly fast fashion wardrobe is more expensive to keep and maintain than wardrobe with clothes made in quality in mind, even if the initial price tag is a lot higher.
Great point! I work for a charity and we sell recycled clothes in our shops...we recently did some work on the environmental cost of fast fashion and the results were eye opening. To produce a pair of jeans needs about 10,000 litres of water. If you drink a litre per day it would take you over 27 years to drink it.....for ONE pair of jeans.
O! Patikami satikt kadu latvieti komentos. Pilnigi piekritu Jusu viedoklim!
@@richardclowes7428You don't think expensive artisan japanese denims don't use the same amount of water?
UK first class train tickets tend to be more around being placed into a less-crowded cabin than being put in a luxury cabin.
Also I've heard that it means you are guaranteed a seat, too.
@@philipmiller8462 You can usually reserve a seat on second class too. Whether there will be someone sitting in it when you get there and whether they'll move when you tell them are another matter.
Either way you are stuck on UK Rail 😂
🤣🤣🤣🤣
NY'r living in Frankfurt. I found the same target applies here as well. It's not that you receive awesome amenities. It's that you don't have to be pressed in with the masses. Back in the day, when I was a heavy DB passenger spending about 500€ a month,, travelling 1st class was worth the extra price
One of the most effective ways to lose money, is to make a habit of spending it, in an effort to convince other people that you have it. Confine your luxury spending to items/services that you really enjoy for their own sake, and that are good quality for the money.
I'm a big fan of The North Face. I've been a fan of them since 1991 when I was a ski instructor. I'm still a skier and still wearing their stuff. Good quality, moderately priced and guaranteed. They really do guarantee their products. I have returned items 7 times over the years and they have been repaired or replaced.
I've got a couple of NF jackets. A soft-shell one and a waterproof lightweight "anorak" type one, both gifted to me. I used to do a lot of hiking/rambling but not so much now. They are both really good quality coats that do the job. The bottom part of the zip on the waterproof became faulty though and I ended up having to get it repaired and a new zipper put on, which was disappointing. I prefer it now anyway as the original zip was "wrong-handed" so now it zips up the same way as most other jackets.
Is it just me, or is Kyle's voice hypnotically relaxing?
100% agree with these choices. I dated a fashion major in college and she used to say “buy an item based on what that companies reputation is based on”
LV = handbags, Armani =suits, Burberry scarves and trench coats 🧥
I.e. buying a Louis Vuitton belt or pair of shoes is a waste of money
I agree immensely, great advice for anyone shopping for luxury brands
Louis Vuitton is not known for handbags. Louis Vuitton is a trunk maker originally.
That’s often times true, but usually the other way around when it comes to fragrances. Many designer brands have great fragrances, while fragrance brands like Creed and Roja usually make overrated, poor value products with mediocre performance.
Hi, the girls you dated gave you some great advice, and it is so true. Do Dyson make cars? No, so why would I buy one with Dyson on it? Luckily, James Dyson realised this and scrapped his car building idea.
But if I buy a $50 tshirt splattered with LV logos then people will think I'm hip and wealthy.... right? 😂
Years ago, I was told by an old Gentleman, that true Gentlemen DO NOT advertise for "brands" and that it's incredibly de classe' to wear "logos".
I haven't done anything like it in 40 years.
If a piece of clothing or an accessory is high quality, it doesn't need the "branding" emblazoned all over it.
I've also found that because many articles are branded, that go out of fashion easier than those that aren't.
Something else that one learns as time goes by, sometimes an article that costs $20 turns out to be much more of a value and is infinitely more serviceable than an article that costs one $200.
Just my observations.
Cheers, Gents!
I made my own leather duffle bag from 3/4 oz leather and leather briefcase with 4/5 oz leather. The briefcase / messenger bag is all hand stitched, and the duffel bag is hand stitched and I also used my hand crank sewing machine for the ends of the duffel bag.
It was a about $200 each for materiel and around 40 hours each for labour, a far cry from fast fashion. They will both last me a lot longer than any Louis Vuitton bag. I always stamp the year on my handmade leather projects, so if I ever have grandchildren they will be able to know how old the projects are.
Thanks for the video. Roger
Sounds wonderful!
My hat is off to you sir. Both the items you made and the skills you learned will last a lifetime.
You are 100% correct for watches, if someone is going to spend any amount of money they just have to do a little bit of research. A $200 Seiko will out preform a $1500 Gucci watch every time. If you want to show off a watch then go with the brands that people respect from many different price ranges, whether it's a $60 Casio, $200 Seiko, $1k Longines, $5k Omega up through Rolex, AP, Patek... Watch people are impressed by quality, heritage, craftsmanship, and complications, not a luxury brand that doesn't focus specifically on watches slapping their name on the dial.
This, I frequent a watch collecting Discord and even people who have Rolex and Omega will still enjoy wearing their Seiko or Casio.
Outperform it in what? Keeping time? Really?
Watches are jewelry. They are all about aesthetics and status symbols, nowadays they have no functionality. Of course there are better watches in terms of quality and mechanism instead of gucci in this price range, but there’s no point to compare a gucci with a Casio. You won’t buy a Rolex to tell the time, you buy it for the looks and the status
@@johndinos3082 For mechanical watches you definitely see a difference, high end watch makers create movements that can be +/- 2 seconds a day or brands like Grand Seiko which are +/- 15 seconds a month! A generic movement from china is off 45 seconds a day so if you don't set it every day your time will be off a ton after a while. Everyone knows a phone tells better time but for many watch collecting is a passion but you would have to be a watch person to understand, the same way that some people are into cars and having a regular sedan won't satisfy their hobby. A Mazda CX-5 (which I own) works just as well as a BMX X-3, but I test drove the X-3 and wow was that fun to drive in comparison and certainly preformed better on the road than my car.
I can’t get behind Uniqlo being considered fast fashion, I’ve “cheap” t shirts, chinos, denim, hoodies, sweaters, dress shirts and mesh polos, which I’ve worn for years.
The quality for the most part holds up.
Totally agree. They're a great value and make lots of classic stuff with 100% natural materials (e.g. wool sweaters). I don't think GG knows much about the brand.
Also, just have to say, it's hard to take style advice from someone who wears blazers that are obviously 3 sizes too small.
Around 80% of my clothes are from that place and they've never given me trouble. I don't think uniqlo belongs there.
I was about to comment the same thing - they are a fair bit more pricey than the other brands on that list, and I have many items from there that have held up for years. If you can't afford $345 dollars for gloves (most people can't!) UniQlo provides reliable and simple style for a slightly increased price.
@@eric1020 If you suggest Raphaels sweaters thats just a vintage look. Though it does look a bit silly, I agree.
@@harrylagerlof1751 no, I'm talking about the guy who wears tiny little blazers that look like they're from his little brother 😂 don't cover his bum even a little!
You could have done the number one obvious one....Designer clothes! Often more expensive than a bespoke option...my pet peeve is designer t-shirts. I was in a posh shop once and pointed out to the shop assistant that I could fly from the UK to North Africa and back 3 times for the price of a t-shirt (made in Vietnam). Shocking!!
I think your conclusion that synthetic filled puffer jackets are bad is a little hasty. 100% down indeed offers the best insulation for its weight, but will completely lose its heat-trapping capacity when wet. This means that if your coat is not treated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating, and if you're not wearing a waterproof (this is different than water resistant!) shell jacket, you will still be cold in the rain, even with the most expensive, highest quality 100% down jacket. In outdoor sports, warm down jackets are usually saved for 'static' activities, such as resting at camp or taking a break from a hike in cold weather. Synthetic insulation is often used as a mid layer to keep you warm during activity.
I collect watches and agree 100 percent with your assessment of fashion watches. There are non-fashion brands that make really good mechanical (non-quartz) watches for reasonable prices. At the low-end Timex come to mind. Go a tad higher and Seiko and Hamilton mechanical watches are fantastic, especially Seiko. Go a little higher and Oris and Tissot have some great models. After that, of course, the sky is the limit!
I completely agree, also Citizen doesn't get enough love I feel. Often times I only see the really busy pilot chronographs on sale here in the UK which really does a disservice to their more elegant and higher end models.
I believe a lot of the fashion brands contract companies like Fossil to produce a range of watches for them, and the results are often very uninspired.
if you're on the REALLY low end of mechanicle whatches with an in-house movement, look no further than the Vostok Anphibia!
The Orient Bambino is a great value for a dress watch. So are the different diver watches that they offer. And all use Orient's in-house movements.
I have a Seiko kinetic dive watch. The bezel and glass are now well scratched, but I have worn it in somewhat extreme conditions you would not dare wear an expensive watch. It is on the way to paying for itself with the saving on batteries and the cost of having it pressure tested every time you change the battery.
Also Casio
Kyle, I totally agree with you about the alcoholic drinks. For example, my wife and I enjoy Asti Spumante over champagne because we like sweetness over dry when it comes to wines. So we enjoy our $15 bottle of Asti and use the savings for other fun stuff.
Here are eight expensive menswear items that some people may feel are not worth the investment:
Branded sneakers: While some designer sneakers may be well-made, the high price tag often comes from the brand name rather than the quality of the shoe.
Logo-covered clothing: Similar to branded sneakers, clothing with prominent logos or branding can often be expensive simply because of the brand name, rather than the quality of the garment.
Novelty ties: Ties with quirky patterns or designs can be fun, but they're not always appropriate for formal or professional settings, making them a less versatile option.
Designer socks: While high-quality socks can make a difference in comfort and durability, designer socks can be expensive without necessarily providing significant benefits over less expensive options.
Trendy sunglasses: Sunglasses with trendy designs or logos can be expensive, but they may quickly go out of style or not provide adequate protection from the sun.
Overpriced basics: Basic items like plain t-shirts or hoodies can be expensive when branded by designer labels, but there are plenty of affordable options that are just as well-made.
High-end belts: While a well-made leather belt is important for both functionality and style, expensive designer belts may not be worth the investment when there are plenty of high-quality options at more reasonable prices.
Flashy watches: Watches with lots of features or intricate designs can be expensive, but they may not always be practical or necessary for everyday wear.
Had a shot (or two) of my best Scotch (about $200 a bottle) the other night. Wanted another glass, but poured it from my $80 bottle. Took a sip, forgetting I poured it from the cheaper botttle. The difference was very noticeable! I liked the more expensive so much better! Unfortunately.
Here in Ireland, it's an open secret that many of the premium whiskey brands source their products from the same one or two large distilleries. Conor McGregor (of UFC fame) launched a premium brand that was actually (very non-premium) Bushmills whiskey in a fancy bottle. And other brands source their products from bulk manufacturers like the Great Northern Distillery. 9 times out of 10, that premium price is just marketing and bears no relationship at all to what's actually in the bottle.
As I sit here feeling fancy drinking my $20 bourbon
Yeah, scotch is for real in my experience.
Yes. I usually find the same when it comes to whiskey. The more expensive stuff is usually noticeably better. There is great cheaper stuff that offers good value but for an enthusiast the higher price tag is usually worth it! Wine is a bit more tricky in my experience but I would say that there is a pattern too where you really get much better stuff for more money. To a certain degree at least.
@@user-vx2wp1ez5s Anyone who gives $$ to a POS person like him deserves to get scammed lol. I hate him getting $$ but I LOVE his idiot fanbois losing it for a literal 'bottom of the barrel' whiskey while fooling themselves into thinking it makes them luxurious and cultured haha.
-I remember picking up and inspecting an LV bag back in high school, my jaw dropped when i saw it wasn't even leather.
-Had a flight once and the only difference between 1st class and other seats was the duct tape on the floor marking the division of classes. I do however like what I call Phony Phirst Class on Spirit. For about $30 extra you get a large comfortable seat with your companion (no third seat in the row).
-In mixed drinks it's almost impossible to tell if the liquor is top shelf or bottom. In fact many distillers sell premium and low end brands and the only actual difference is the bottle
Working for a manufacturing company (metal parts), I have my finger on the pulse of how a thing is made and all that goes into it.
And in general, I'm sick to death of how advertising and marketing of just about anything and everything in America seems to be a hit piece on how to deceive the potential buyer. One has to become a professional at picking up the scent of poo to even get through life without losing it all.
Yep. On any expensive item like a bag, always research alternatives.
I bought a Hartmann leather briefcase for less than $300, free lifetime repairs, superior in quality in every way to the LV duffle shown. For luggage, Briggs & Riley can be had for prices equal to their competition while also offering lifetime repairs.
I'll spend the money if it's a "one and done" type of purchase.
I live in the cold part of Australia, Tasmania, and the puffer jacket is a staple article of clothing here during the winter. Particularly in the colour black. Its become so widespread that it's known as "The Tassie Tuxedo" which hurts my soul in more ways then one 😄
I thought it was a Melbourne staple, but I guess the other cities are catching on.
@@Snoop_Dugg I guarantee you Hobart had them before Melbourne. Hobart is the older city after all.
As a man who wears a suit almost everyday I’ve been watching your stuff for years. I have to disagree with some of your points. First class is important if it’s a long trip or you are a larger person. I have had nothing but great experiences in first class. In terms of liquor there is a big difference between great scotch, wine, etc and generic stuff. In terms of watches, anyone who knows anything about watches knows that brands like IWC, Patek, Breguet, Rolex(until recently) and others are worth every penny. In terms of good luggage, just get TUMI.
I love these videos - your outfit looks great! The color combination is fantastic. Thank you!
Great vid,and I agree on most accounts. I would say that synthetic fill jackets can be as good if not better than down in some circumstances. Having done two winter tours of the falklands,one in the Balkans and work in the far north of Scotland, synthetic jackets like Montanes extreme smock or the ever fabulous (and pretty inexpensive) Snugpak softie are unbeatable. Buffalo mountain shirts are good too. All will keep you warm even if wet,dry out quick and are windproof.
I love my down jackets,but they just aren't as weather resilient .
I use these jackets in active tactical law enforcement jobs,out in all weather's and swear by them.
Don't write synthetic fill off😉
Agreed, especially on the watches. You guys nailed it with recommending the Casio Duro as an alternative to junk fashion watches and drop-ship kickstarter brands.
not sure about the fast fashion. When I was broke, I wore a lot of H&M. I had some t-shirts from there that I wore weekly for years. Jeans are a different story since they take more of a beating and can't stand up to it. There's a difference between fast fashion products and the fast fashion lifestyle, not all of us are buying those brands just to wear once for an Insta photo and then throw them away.
I will say this about fast fashion. I struggled for a large part of my 20’s and had to live out of a backpack or lose most of my belongings quite often. Fast fashion had its place.
Kyle, see what you did!! You made Preston cry, what are you doing man?!?!?
great vid!!
Even just the poem alone was gold
Yes, I purchased two 'puffer' jackets, 1 from Eddie Bower and another from Walmart. The EB was a lot warmer than that thin thing from Walmart.
I was looking for round trip tickets to Japan. Around 1200-1600 but first class was literally 25-30k. That’s insane for transportation.
You can charter a private jet for that.
Zipair is the cheapest way if you are near certain airports. It's an offshoot of JAL. Even the lay flat business class is 2k. Downside is nickel and diming.
You guys need to try out the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel. It’s the best bag I’ve ever owned and still looks brand new.
I liked the article. It would be good to mention that if you can purchase the vintage version of some of these items, like Gucci bags or classic luggage, it can be a once in a lifetime purchase and worth the price.
And, you get the tatter patina. Quoting the great Basil Fawlty " Only the rich can pull off that yatter":).
Oh the LV bag, believe me I tried convincing my oldest son that for the price it's not worth it. First-Class when I have to fly is the only way I do fly so for me it's worth every penny lol. Yes, my son does enjoy flying first-class when I'm paying.
As a UK viewer, I absolutely applaud your highlighting of how overpriced and, frankly, rubbish our railway service is in the UK. Even Standard Class is expensive on longer journeys, which gives you an idea of the kind of value you are (not) getting.
I will point out though, that the carriages you featured are only from one specific operator. Some of the First Class sections on other train services are a bit better, but not by much! The main benefit is that you get to sit away from everyone else, you get a table, and on some services you get food and drink brought to you.
First class sections are often empty though, and that's a different debate as I've often seen overcrowded trains with nobody sitting in FC...
I got a good look at my aunt's new LV bag a few years ago (2018?)---yep it was super chince. I had no idea that LV was once a legit manufacturer though. I'd always figured they were just a marketing company. As for fashion-watches, I bet some of those make the watchmakers cry when they come in for servicing.
I agree with most of what you are saying. The one minor difference I would have with you is when come to first class travel. Then I think it is more about what you are going to be getting for your money, and then deciding if it is worth it to you. A quick jump flight between LA and SF, probably not. Across the USA? Having a seat that is actually comfortable a full meal and a charging port for my starts to seem like it is worth the extra cost.
I agree 100% with the watch segment. Most fashion brand watches have the quality of a 20 bucks no-name watch. It's such a shame because there are so many amazing watches for less money from reputable brands - sometimes even with a similar design. I personally always recommend Orient.
Having had an orient myself I don’t find them worth their asking price anymore, the best value for money are certainly vintage swiss watches
@@filippomonaco2303 If you want to got vintage with the aesthetic and the potential problems that come with used watches: Definitely a great choice. I struggle with finding a reputable seller with good prices. That's why I've not bought a vintage watch myself yet.
I second the Orient recommendation. They're still a great value.
@@filippomonaco2303 i'm a newbie watch hobbyist, so far i've learned from many collectors and dealers is that Orient is one of the best affordable watch brands you can buy that's top-notch in quality and craftsmanship(together with Casio and Seiko), and that people don't really want to buy a vintage watch unless they 100% know where it came from and that it's a headache to restore if it's broken.
I've also learned that when you buy a Swiss watch, you're not really buying "best value for money" and they're right, you're not exactly thinking about money-value when you're about to part ways with 9,000 USD on a watch, instead you're buying a well-spent reward for yourself for an achievement or milestone you've reached in your career or life, I'd like to buy a Rolex one day, but I haven't reached the point in my career that I consider myself Rolex-successful, although I have the money and have bought things that cost the same as a Rolex(for my business and hobby), but unless it's for a really good reason and achievement, spending 9k USD on one watch, for me, is still unthinkable. In the meantime, I'm enjoying my Casio, G-shock, and Seiko starter collection LOL.
@@aLwE17 there are swiss watch that cost a lot less that 9000 usd. Still if you know what you do teh best value for money is a swiss vintage watch. I had a orient myself, now it feels just a big toy (they make way too big cases), the movement isn't bad, but the details aren't that great. It is good value for 100-150 dollars, but you're still buying a 150 dollars watch. With 150 dollars you can buy a vintage that was more valuable when it was new.
Also you talk like there are only g-shok or rolex. Not considering brands like tissot, longines, certina, omega etc.
Love Kyles Poetry Corner - It applies outside the world of fashion
Fly with Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Ethihad, Air France, Thai Airways and then see what's first class all about.
It's about to and fro driver service, fast security clearance, board rooms, concierges, good food and drinks and ultimately comfort so that you arrived with minimal mental and physical fatigue at your destination ready to take on the high profile meetings & businesses.
You forgot to mention Underwear.
I got switched from Jockey To USPA. And now wearing Calvin Klein. Out of three USPA has often disappointed me. I have a USPA short that is still functioning without any tear but don't know about their underwears. They seems to get torn apart within a month. However both Jockey and Calvin Klein are holding up pretty well. Jockey was even less expensive than USPA still it managed to survive more the 20 months. CK is also very good. The most expensive one I ever bought but it's still intact.
A good insight, thank you!
I agree with everything but the puffer jacket. I think puffer jackets are a trend and I would not have one for wearing around town. It does have its place in the field or in the woods. However, an expensive, good quality jacket with a synthetic fill may be better, especially under wet conditions. Down has no insulating property when wet. Various types of hollow-fill synthetics retain their insulation properties when wet. You have to buy an old-line quality name. Typically, I trust REI to steer me in the right direction.
I prefer to wear a lighter down gillet to go underneath my Barbour if the weather gets too chilly, I prefer the look of cotton and wool jackets as my outer layer compared to puffer jackets, and the outer jacket keeps the down from getting wet.
I prefer layering, even down to -20F. Having so much insulation on the shell seems like a pain to manage.
Except for the down Jacket I agree. Quality down is pretty warm. There are also some nice heritage Brands doing them aswell. I personally barely ever used them but when you are outside in pretty cold areas for a long while, the can be effective.
First Class anywhere outside the United States is Fantastic. In the US it just means a slightly wider seat and cheap wine. First Class is MUCH MORE in other countries. Much More.
Have to (half) disagree with the fast fashion one. If you buy a basic mono-coloured shirt at h&m, uniqlo etc, it will still last multiple years. I have some of those for 15 years now and they still look like recently bought. It's only the non-basic, "trendy" things that have to be replaced every season and thats not because of quality, but fashion-trends. But i don't know if the quality is the same in every country. I can imagine that the quality in the US is worse, because of that "throw away and buy new"-mentality, but here (Germany) a 10$-shirt from those brands will last 10-20 years.
The segment on down jackets is in part an oversimplification. Synthetic down isn’t just ‘knockoff’ down. It should generally be lower price than a high quality natural down, but in certain use cases has huge advantages. It’s less compressible, and gram for gram less warm, but it will retain its insulating properties when wet through, and natural down won’t. It won’t ‘clump’ or smell when it stays damp for extended periods and it is far easier for the average person to care for and more than warm enough for many people. Personally I have both but find myself reaching for synthetic down far more often, and don’t need to have a rainproof layer on me incase of showers. I would agree though it’s worth going for reputable brands for both, and especially for natural down where cheap downs will also involve animal cruelty.
Excellent video and so true. I found this out a few years ago when I bought a leather Michael Kors purse for my wife. The purse fell apart in a few months.
Had my LV keep all 55 since 2018 love it crazy it went up in price
Expensive Japanese style chef’s knives. Most people don’t know how to sharpen and hone them with the correct 70:30 bevel ratio and wind up just ruining them. It’s much better to get a good durable chef’s knife from a restaurant supply store. You can spend less than $50 and also get a honing steel to keep the blade in line between sharpenings.
I agree. I hear people talk about how nice an overpriced set of knives is, but at the end of the day, you're just cutting food with it. So long as it can cut fruits, vegetables, and meats, you're golden. No need to spend hundreds on some special steel.
It's always the people who don't know how to keep their knives sharp that fall for the marketing of the new next sharp knife, they think there's something wrong with their old one and replace it instead of maintaining it properly.
Even better use cheap ceramic knives as they don't alter the taste. This coming from a long time collector of famous bladesmiths.
I have to stick up for Uniqlo belts; unlike lots of their stuff, their belts are very good quality leather for rather cheap, and if you have big wrists, you can cut them down and even make some nice bracelets that will last forever and not break the bank.
This list is on point and very accurate.
In The Netherlands, traveling first class on a train almost guarantees you can have a seat and are not bothered by loud talking students or noisy kids.
All things being equal, I agree the extra you have to pay for first class doesn't justify it for what you get compared to second class.
I agree with everything but the down jacket segment. Despite this, I agree with what was said in the segment. Down jackets were once a specialized tool for technical outdoor activities. Now, the down insulated jacket or colloquially known "puffy" jacket is for the most part a trend. Now, I work for an outdoor apparel company, and I am and avid hiker, trail runner, Kayaker etc... and I understand the applications, and the reasons for real technical pieces. As a side effect of my employment I own many, many pieces that otherwise I couldn't justify paying for. And, actual pieces made the right way, and made sustainably, are absolutely essential for real high technical endeavors. I probably could do the things I do with cheeper options, but to be frank, it would be at best uncomfortable, and at worst downright life threatening. So yes, for the average consumer a generic or actual high quality down or synthetic jacket is overkill and not worth the steep prices they can command. But, as those who know, know... a high quality pice from brands such as The North Face, Patagonia, Cotopaxi, Mountain Hardware... will last years, and could even save your life.
I'm not sorry for loving my North face down jackets! They just get the job done in my opinion 💪🏿!
Good list 👌
Loved the video and agree on so many points!
I bought a white linen shirt for summer at Uniqlo and cannot find anything wrong with it. Will wear it for years. You won't talk me into considering the one from Zegna, 8 times the price. The cotton shirts I owned from this brand did not last very long.
Uniqlo is great
@@ThePumpkinBasher agreed. They are miles above other fashion retailers in their category.
Uniqlo's inclusion has less to do with the overall quality and more to do with the high volume of manufacture
@@gentlemansgazette It was labeled as "fast fashion" which it isn't. And brands like Ralph Lauren or Armani aren't tiny tailor workshops either. I smell snobbishness. ;)
@@gentlemansgazetteYou have a thing against high vol manufacturers that managed to make cheap but long lasting products?
Excellent video
2:34 that’s why I carry a vintage Burberrys duffel bag and wear a Hermès H belt.
This all depends about your attitude towards stuff you use.
I am rolling low budget...so I can’t even buy brand stuff.
Or buy those from 2nd hand shops.
If new I rather go Zara or Newyorker...and use those until...
Love your jacket! At first glance, it looks like an old US Military M-65 field jacket liner or made from a poncho liner, aka woobie blanket.
great video 🙂
The best puffer jackets I have seen are from running clothing companies. As for flying higher class, I have never flown first class, but business class. Some airlines do a really good job. Others, it is worth paying extra to get in the airport lounges with the food and drinks and the nicer chairs on the plane with several movies at your disposal and the ability to recline more than economy. However, some airlines do it way better than others.
(Working for GG looks like it would be a fun job, but I already have a full time job I really like.)
Great info, thank you Kyle🙂👍
Uniqlo isn't fast fashion though. I don't buy shirts anymore because I've been wearing the same bunch of Uniqlo shirts for 10 years now.
Also, one thing to check when deciding whether or not to book a first class train ticket is whether the regular seating cars have air conditioning or not. That is sometimes the biggest difference.
When it comes down to wine there is a whole world in between a 5 dollar bottle or a 35 dollar bottle in my opinion. Many Wines at 20 are really good too. Now, 20 bucks 35 bucks might be affordable to you but perhaps not to me. A 100 bucks bottle and a 35 bottle though? The 35 might the real thing for many.
In terms of Whiskey the price tag for a good one comes higher. Say you buy a bottle for 50 bucks, well, I struggle to sip that neat in most cases, now most of 100bucks range bottle are nice for me. I said most but mainly referring to the few a tried. The point remains though.
When it comes to clothes I would love to be able to make as much of my own clothes I possibly could . I would make everything from socks and underwear to GoreTex rainwear and winter parkas .
I do that. Gore Tex needs the seams sealed, it’s probably worth paying somebody to do it. Same with socks. You have limited hours to spend tailoring so pick the projects you can do well and understand that paying other people for their craftsmanship is a good thing. Besides, once you learn to knit you’ll wind up with a spinning wheel, then big pots for dye… I know these rabbit holes too well. How you going to finish that suit and go to the day job?
Sewing is a great skill and tailoring is an art form. Go for it.
Definitely agree about the alcohol... particularly true with wine; there are great wines at every price point, including sub-$20.
Building on your fast fashion point- any fast food hamburger except for In-N-Out.
The biggest problem with fast fashion is BRANDED fast fashion. If you buy a shirt with a brand name on it, the quality sucks and it was expensive, that's way worse than if you (like me) buy a ten-pack of fruit of the loom t-shirts for a total of 30€ and basically only wear them for stuff where they'd get dirtied up, like gardening or renovating. I always keep some cheapo-shirts on hand for that. Although fruit of the loom does provide quality at least on par with your average motto or band t-shirt, though at a fraction of the price.
When I was in London during Xmas, it was a sea of black puffy jackets. It was visual poison.
Kyle, who makes that awesome green quilted jacket you are wearing? I need to check it out. Thanks
I wasn’t expecting the poem 😂😂😂😂
Please keep
Making more of this
Casio watches are definitely the BEST! I’ve had several that kept perfect time, mistakenly gone through washing machine and/or dryer cycles, been chewed by my dogs - and still worked perfect for circa 10 years! For a $30 item, the wear per year cost amounts to $3! What’s not to like?😁
the h&m basic teeshirt is pretty good in my opinion
I would advise against down jackets of any sort as they lose all insulation capability the moment they get wet.
Kyle is back!!!!!
Great video and I have just subscribed!
Welcome! Glad to have you here 😀
Well i already wear my uniqlo t-shirt more than 100 times. does this mean i get like 10cents perwear?
Frugality is an admirable trait thank you Kyle
It's sad that Gucci luggage is apparently low quality.
I really liked the look of the Savoy suitcases.
Kind of disagree with Uniqlo being put in fast fashion. They have good quality products that is offered at a low price and most of the items are wardrobe basic essentials.
Same! I'd say they are mid-range. Definitely not in the wear-once-and-throw-away category. They have a very decent quality wardrobe essentials. I've been wearing their U-label T-shirts for 3 years, and while they are a little faded now, still no rips, tears or sags.
The inclusion is less to do with quality and more to do with volume - after all, Uniqlo focuses on a high level of manufacturing in order to justify the lower upfront costs
@@gentlemansgazetteWhat's wrong with that? Can't sell in large vols high quality items?
I mostly agree on the topic, but I think the issue of fast fashion is more nuanced than this. Of course buying from sustainable, quality brands is objectively better - that's a no-brainer. But when it comes down strictly to cost? I think it really depends on who we're talking about. I'm from a working class background, and so are most of my friends (the ones who weren't are now as they've more or less been disowned). All of us wear fast fashion, not because we like that, but because we can't afford a decent wardrobe at higher prices, and in some cases because finding plus size clothes anywhere else is so hard. And I can attest that that fast fashion is definitely not at a high cost-per-wear. I have shirts in my closet right now that I bought on Ebay as a teenager for around 5 dollars and that still see regular use today, 10 years later. I favor thrifting of course, but you can't just get whatever you like at a thrift shop, so I own a decent amount of fast fashion clothing, and all of it gets worn again and again, and repaired if it's damaged. And when it no longer gets worn, my friends and I tend to get together and exchange clothes we no longer want so they can see more use. The cost per wear of those items is minute over the years because we don't treat our clothes as worthless or disposable - we don't have the income to do that. Instead, we see them as things we enjoy and want to keep enjoying for as long as we can.
@Gentlman'sGazette would love to see a video of 8 or 10 expensive things that really are worth their money it can be luxury designer items like clothing, accessories, jewelry, perfumes etc or i would even love to see a video about expensive suits, how to get suits made for you and how to find a good tailor.
kyle: strong, clear presentation without sounding like a late-night infomercial huckster (at all...). Beautifully dressed.
i wondered about travel and luggage and frankly Kyle answered all my questions. Many thanks.
PS, "Thibodeau" and its variations is a strong name easily found in eastern Canada - the "french shore" Acadian areas of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Does Kyle have a Lousiana connectiojn? jest askin'...
Another excellent video from Gentleman's Gazette produced by intelligent research and commentary. Also, somewhere along the line Gazette has developed a real sense of humour!
Thank you for your kind words and support!
I think Uniqlo tees are a step above the rest they last about 2 years for me without looking washed out. I usually also wash my clothes on cold and dry them at the lowest temperature.
I like this guy much better then the other guys.
Agree 100% on all you state.
The bit in wine doesn’t fit on this list. Of course there are plenty of expensive bottles that don’t produce a quality consistent with their price point but I’d consider this category simply a potential trap if you have a knowledge gap and no access to shop that can guide you. Otherwise, 👌👌👌
Agree with most of this but that LV bag is just gorgeous. Take my money any day of the week. Also leather is heavier than canvas, something to consider.
Stylistically, there's no denying that LV knows what it's doing. To your point, leather may be heavier, but canvas is also cheaper - you can find higher quality canvas bags without the expensive LV price 😉
@@gentlemansgazette unless you've actually bought one and used it for 10-15 years, please dont make yourself look silly speaking on a keep all. You mentioned price per use in this video and I've had 2 keepall's since the 90's and they look and work almost like new. The canvas and hardware shines like it was recently bought. I fly 20+ flights a year so it gets thrown around and put threw conveyor belts etc. What bag do you have that you've used for 10 years? 15 Years? 20 Years? That's the true value of a keep all not sighting the fact that it still gets sooo much attention. The value is in the use and quality of how it was made. Love your channel!
Would you please review Johnny Walker Blue Label scotch?
The top is on point and I like it but can you guys make a video about top expensive things worth investing in?
I think it would be very educative for some people and also a good refer point
Definitely an idea we discussed when making this one!
You should make this a regular theme. This subject is of greater importance than a single video can contain.
Please do a follow up video. The wise customer will always prefer to pay extra, if they are getting truly greater quality.
We trust that GG can educate us?
Great list, you've earned my subscription Syre! 🎩 🥃
The interesting thing is that people will pay more for a Haute Couture fashion brand and don't understand that the origin of the brand was made popular by exclusivity. If you are buying a mass produced product, it doesn't matter that you paid a lot, you've overpaid to look like someone else. Once you exceed a certain price, go bespoke or at least MTM with unique materials. Better fit, better materials, unique style and less money.
I wear my fast fashion pieces for years and they still hold up pretty well. I also own expensive pieces that have fallen apart quickly. To each their own.
I would include sunglasses and umbrellas. Not because of quality issues ( frankly, they run a gamut) but because I'm *always* losing them.
down jackets are definitely great for exercise and outdoor activities like hiking, hunting etc. Doesn't really seem to have a great place outside of those realms
Do you do a lot of sports?
My travel bag is a simple blue sport bag I got got 15 euros, it fits about 3 days of clothing for me
I dislike syntetic and feather jackets, so I avoid puffer jackets as a whole
Fully agree! Anything from designer labels 'sucks'
Have to disagree with the jacket thing. It all depends. If you spend good money on a high quality brand where you actually pay for the quality and not only design and brand name you will get a very useful tool that beats the traditional overcoat when it comes to functionality. Of course there is a lot of trash out there and that’s not worth it.