For years, I stuck to buying inexpensive clothing. It seemed like a smart way to save money. However, those cheap items never lasted. My closet was packed with pieces that looked fantastic for a single wear, only to start falling apart shortly after. I finally realized I was actually wasting money by constantly replacing low-quality garments.
I made the decision to invest in better quality. I wanted a jacket with a sharp, polished look—a blazer that would maintain its structure. I stopped focusing solely on the lowest price and began paying attention to fabric quality and tailoring.
This is the story of my journey from spending under $50 on a jacket to investing over $100. Was the upgrade worth the extra expense? Absolutely. Here’s why.
My initial attempts at finding a stylish jacket were disappointing. I was drawn to a soft, long velvet blazer and found one online for just $45. The product photos looked luxurious, and I thought I had scored an incredible deal.
This experience highlights the core issue with fast fashion: extremely cheap materials and rushed construction save you money upfront, but the item falls apart quickly.
Verdict: Avoid structured jackets priced under $60. The material quality will almost certainly let you down.
Having learned my lesson, I sought out better options. I spent around $95 on a blazer, moving away from the trendy velvet look toward a solid, professional piece.
These mid-range jackets were a definite improvement. They featured a decent lining and offered a better fit through the chest and shoulders. They were reliable, everyday pieces.
The mid-range jacket was acceptable—just okay. It felt like settling for a "B grade." It didn't inspire excitement. Often made from 100% polyester, it felt stiff and didn't breathe well.