How to Spot High-Quality Clothing Before You Buy

It's tougher to tell how high-quality something is when you buy online. How can you tell if a piece of clothing is durable enough without touching it or inspecting the finer construction details?

The good news is that high-quality clothes leave clues. If you learn how to interpret them, you can avoid disappointment and help pick clothes with a low cost per wear.

1. First, look at what the fabric is made of

The label tells a story.

Check for:

• Single, natural fibres

• Percentages that are easy to understand (like 100% organic cotton)

• Fabrics that are suitable for the purpose of the garment

Be careful of:

• Terms that aren't clear, like "cotton blend"

• Synthetic materials in everyday clothing

• Performance claims that don't make sense

Less complicated compositions are generally better and easier to take care of.

2. Check the weight of the fabric

Thin doesn't always indicate low quality, although particularly light fabrics can mean:

• Shorter life span

• Pilling faster

• Loss of form

Mid-weight fabrics are often the best because they offer the optimum balance of:

• Longevity

• Comfort

• Wear all year round

3. Inspect the stitching

You can check these characteristics even in photos of the product:

• Straight, even stitching

• No loose threads

• Secure hems

• Strong stress spots 

Messy stitching is sometimes a sign of problems down the line.

4. Fit Philosophy

High-quality brands make items with:

• Accurate pattern development

• Clothes that hang straight

• Well-constructed necklines that don't gape or frill

• Seems that don't twist once washed

Fit is a kind of durability; garments that fit well last longer.

5. Look Between the Marketing Lines

Trust goes up when brands talk about:

• Where their garments are created

• What the fabric composition really is

• How to take care of your clothes

• Why were some decisions made

6. Don't just go off your first impression

Ask:

• Will this still look the same after 30 washes?

• Can it be worn throughout different seasons?

• Does it heavily link to current trends?

• Would I fix it if I had to?

Good clothes are made to last, not only for the first time you wear them.

Buying Less and Choosing Better

To see quality, you don't have to be an expert; you just have to slow down and pay attention to the little things.

When you make a good clothing choice:

• Clothes last longer

• Wardrobes become simpler

• Spending becomes more intentional

• The effect on the environment goes down naturally

Quality is quiet, but anyone who knows where to look can find it.