High quality and fast fashion are probably phrases you normally don’t put together. In today’s world of micro-trends, it can be hard to find long-lasting pieces that are chic and on-trend.

I am a UGG girl. Since high school, I have loved the brand and have been loyal to their footwear. I have a 10-year-old pair of boots that I love, but I decided that it was time to let them go and invest in a new pair that would hopefully last another 10 years. 

To my disappointment, I noticed after a few wears that the quality was different. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it, but the material, weight, and feel of the product were so inconsistent with the previous model.  

In hindsight, inspecting the product thoroughly before purchasing would have helped me find a better product and avoid disappointment. Read on to learn what to look for in quality items with examples of high-quality pieces that you can keep an eye out for on your next shopping haul.

Fabrics

Looking for natural fabrics is an easy way to find a quality piece of clothing. Polyester and rayon don’t wash as well and will not last as long as 100% natural fibers. To find out the item's construction, you can look at the clothing tag or ask yourself three questions. Is it soft? Is it thick? Is it woven tightly? These pieces below are a “Yes” to all three questions!

Construction

You may also want to look at the construction of the article of clothing. Does it have even seams? Are there threads poking out or coming undone? Or, do the shoes have visual signs of glue? Sometimes it is hard to figure this out online, I would recommend going to see the item in person to make sure it is the quality you are expecting. It may also be beneficial to try it on and see the fit of the clothing. If it is ill-fitting, the quality of the fabric may not be as good.

Embellishments

How are the quality of the zippers, hooks, and buttons? Cheaply made clothing has embellishments made out of plastic materials. Metals or wood pieces will last longer and look better in the long run. Also, check for zipper placements. Well-concealed zippers create a classier look and are often a sign of a better-quality item.