When you’re in the market for new clothing but don’t want to sacrifice quality for affordability? We all know how tempting it is to spend your money on trendy pieces at fast fashion stores, only to have them fall apart after a few wears.
There are plenty of options for finding high-quality clothing that won’t break the bank; you just have to know where to look. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to buy high-quality clothing and apparel so you can look good and feel good about your purchases.
Why Quality Over Quantity Matters
How many times have you bought that $10 shirt only to find it shrinking, fading, or morphing into some alien garment after a couple of washes?
Quality over quantity isn’t just a cliché; it’s a choice.
When you invest in high-quality clothing, you’re not just buying a piece of fabric. You’re cultivating a personal style that uniquely reflects you. . You’re buying a statement, and sometimes even a future family heirloom your grandkids can bicker over.
Understanding Quality in Clothing
When it comes to clothing, quality is more than just a buzzword—it’s a game-changer. High-quality clothes are those rare gems that combine durability, comfort, and style, making you feel like a million bucks every time you wear them.
But what exactly is "high-quality apparel"?
Essentially, it’s about fabric and construction. “High-quality clothes” is an oxymoron unless you start with first quality materials – from the fabrics that you see on the outside, the fabrics (call fusing) that is invisible to you but provides structure to the garment, all the way down to the quality and type of thread that’s used.
Then, using these materials, the piece must be crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using techniques that artisans have used for centuries, to ensure they stand the test of time.
If you’re tired of your clothes falling apart after a few washes, it’s time to start paying attention to quality.
What Makes High-Quality Clothes?
High-quality clothes are like the VIPs of your wardrobe—they stand out for all the right reasons. First off, they’re probably made from natural fibers and materials like 100% cotton or wool. These luxurious fabrics not only feel good but also age gracefully, maintaining their appearance and comfort over time.
And let’s not forget about the little details. High-quality garments can often feature metal or other high-grade materials for buttons and accessories, signaling that the piece is designed to last season after season..
Key Factors in High-Quality Clothing
Natural Fabrics and Materials
When it comes to high-quality clothing, natural materials are the gold standard. Fabrics like wool, silk, organic cotton and cashmere are not only luxurious but also durable. They feel better against your skin, wash well, and have a longer lifespan compared to synthetic materials.
Natural fibers are breathable, making them more comfortable to wear in a variety of climates. So, if you’re looking to invest in high-quality clothes, always check the label for natural materials.
Construction and Craftsmanship
The construction and craftsmanship of a garment are crucial indicators of its quality. High-quality clothes are meticulously stitched together, with each garment designed for construction using a specific stitch count per inch, ensuring that every seam is strong and durable. A quick test is to hold the garment up to the light and stretch one of the seams—if you see minimal light coming through, that’s a good sign of solid construction.
On the flip side, poor stitching is a red flag for poor quality. If you notice loose threads, uneven seams, or a significant number of imperfections, it’s best to steer clear. These flaws indicate that the garment was poorly made and won’t stand up to regular wear and tear. By paying attention to these details, you can make informed decisions and invest in high-quality clothes that will serve you well for years to come.
Where To Buy High-Quality Clothes
1. Devium USA
We don’t just slap a “Made in the USA” tag on our clothes and call it a day- we’re all about vintage-inspired apparel that’s carefully stitched in America’s very own artisan sewing houses.
Think sturdy waxed canvas jackets and flannel shirts that make you feel at home as soon as you put them on. These pieces aren’t just clothes; they’re an invitation to live a life full of adventure and style.
What makes us stand out in the crowd? For starters, we sweat the small stuff so you don’t have to. Every step of our design, sourcing, and manufacturing process is done in the USA. And we’re not just making clothes—we’re crafting small-batch originals that scoff in the face of fast fashion.
Each piece is designed to withstand the test of time, which means you won’t have to spend another Saturday afternoon replacing that ripped pair of jeans.
2. Gitman Vintage
If you’re a sucker for vintage Americana, Gitman Vintage is the brand for you. Founded in 1932, this American-made label has been crafting shirts with the highest level of quality and precision for over 80 years.
Each piece is handmade by skilled artisans in Pennsylvania using only the finest fabrics from around the world. They emphasize sustainability by using GOTS-certified organic cotton, which highlights their commitment to environmental benefits and ethical origins. They even have a signature “locker loop” on their shirts that serves as a nod to traditional Ivy League style… talk about attention to detail.
3. Oak Street Bootmakers
No look is complete without a pair of shoes, and Oak Street Bootmakers has got you covered. This Chicago-based specializes in traditional-style boots that are crafted by hand using the finest materials available.
They are committed to sustainability by incorporating recycled materials into their production practices, which supports ethical labor and reduces waste. They even offer a resoling service for their shoes, so you can keep them looking fresh for years to come (let’s be real, nothing says “American gentleman” like a well-made pair of shoes- just ask those who’ve purchased our Truckee - Devium x ComunityMade Shoe).
Why American-Made Matters
Supporting American-made products like Devium isn’t just about waving the stars and stripes. It’s about supporting local artisans, reducing your carbon footprint, and promoting sustainable clothing. When you buy American-made, you’re ensuring that your hard-earned money goes into sustaining local economies and that your clothes have fewer frequent flyer miles than you do.
American-made brands often focus on creating more sustainable clothing, emphasizing high-quality, timeless pieces that contribute to a more sustainable wardrobe. It’s a win-win.
Here are some other benefits to American made…
Quality and Attention to Detail
American-made companies prioritize quality and attention to detail, often using traditional crafting techniques that have been passed down for generations. This means you're getting a product that has been crafted with care and precision, ensuring its longevity.
Ethical Production Practices in Sustainable Clothing Brands
When you buy American-made, you can feel good knowing that the workers who made your clothes are working in safe conditions, being paid a fair wage, and are treated fairly. Plus, many American-made companies like Devium also prioritize sustainable practices, so you're not only supporting workers, but also the environment.
Unique Style
American-made brands often have a unique style that sets them apart from mass-produced clothing. This allows you to stand out just the right amount, expressing your individuality through your clothing choices.
Supporting Local Economies
By buying American-made products, you're supporting local economies and small businesses. This helps create jobs and boosts the overall economy in your backyard.
How to Spot Quality – Your Quick Guide to High-Quality Fabrics
What separates a well-made garment from one that’s… well, not? Here are some key things to look for when assessing the quality of a piece of clothing:
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Fabric: High-quality fabric will not only feel better on your skin, but will also last longer. Look for natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk, as well as sturdy weaves like twill, a robust classic woven in a diagonal rib pattern that is designed for strength, as well as resistance to wrinkles.
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Construction: Take a close look at how the garment is put together. Are there any loose threads or uneven stitching? A well-made garment will have neat and even seams. Also pay attention to how close together or far apart your stitches are in any piece you’re considering. Stitch count per inch is a good measure of how well constructed a garment is.
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Details: Pay attention to the small details like buttons, zippers, and linings. Are the buttons well crafted, and sewn on without any loose threads showing? Are the buttonholes even and well built? Does the zipper feel like the right weight for the garment’s fabric, and does it zip up and down with ease? Is the lining sewn in smoothly and with care? Inspecting a garment for these details can give you insight into the level of quality and care that went into making it.
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Fit: A well-made garment will fit you well and flatter your body shape. It should not be too tight or too loose, and the proportions should be balanced. Oftentimes, lower quality apparel is “graded” poorly, meaning that the manufacturer didn’t ensure that each size would actually fit a person of that typical size. That’s why you sometimes see a very tight body fit with very loose or long arms on a garment.
FAQs
Q: Are American-made brands expensive?
A: No. While most Made in USA brands have higher price points due to paying higher worker wages in the USA manufacture of its materials (fabric, trims, zippers), the initial price point is only a starting point. If you factor in "cost per wear" at the end, your Made in USA clothing purchase may even turn out to be less expensive than a foreign made piece of clothing.
Q: Is supporting American-made just about patriotism?
A: While there are so many things right about simply buying Made in USA to support the American Made movement, the rubber meets the road when you breakdown all its virtuous components, and realized that buying 100% USA Made is about everything from fair wages, to supporting local small businesses, and reducing your environmental impact by keeping the supply chain close by. Everyone benefits when we choose to buy locally made goods.
Q: How can I ensure my quality clothing lasts for a long time?
A: Proper care is key. Follow the instructions on the garment's label and clean it according to its specific needs. Also, avoid wearing the same piece of clothing too frequently and rotate it with other items in your wardrobe to reduce wear and tear. Washing your apparel on delicate and hang drying also considerably increases the longevity of clothes. Lastly, invest in good hangers and storage methods to maintain the garment's shape and condition.
Q: Can I find quality clothing at fast fashion stores?
A: It is possible to find some pieces of higher quality at fast fashion stores, but overall, their focus is on producing large quantities quickly and inexpensively, so the answer is typically no. For long-lasting, well-made garments, it's best to look for brands that prioritize quality over quantity.
Q: What are some common signs of poor-quality clothing?
A: Look out for cheap-looking, thin fabrics that easily tear or pill after just a few wears. Uneven seams, loose threads, and low-quality zippers and buttons are also indicators of poor quality. Additionally, garments with inconsistent sizing or improper fit may be a sign of lower-quality construction.
Q: How can I support ethical and sustainable practices in the fashion industry through my clothing choices?
A: Look for American-made brands that prioritize fair labor practices, use sustainable materials, and have transparent supply chains. You can also consider buying second-hand or investing in timeless, high-quality pieces that will last for years to come, contributing to a wardrobe of more sustainable clothing. Every small choice makes a difference in creating a more ethical and sustainable fashion industry.
The Final Stitch – Making Quality a Lifestyle
Quality clothing isn’t just a purchase; it’s an investment in yourself. When you choose quality over quantity, you’re making a statement about who you are and what you value—and that is priceless.
Wondering where to get started? Check out our Super Savings (after all, you can't beat a good sale, especially on quality clothing)- here you'll find some of the greatest deals on American-made pieces that will last for years to come.