After spending a number of years working in the garment industry; I have learned a few sure signs of quality clothing.
I use these “signs” every time a make a selection for The Boy’s Store. This goes for both new and current lines/brands. You can never assume that a previous good quality record will still be exactly the same from one season to the next.
Mostly everyone does try to stick to some strict quality standards. A change in manufacturing or new regulations will bring industry wide changes. Some regulations, such as the last one which was meant to reduce health risks by monitoring lead levels in dyes, can greatly change quality and bring in additional unexpected costs.
In our competitive market additional cost and increases in pricing can mean a number of things. A company might choose to discontinue producing a particular line, or simply quit. It could also mean a change in tooling for the clothing plant and so on. Each new cost can bring in a new search for a facility that is compliant with the new regulation, flexible to comply with brand specifications, open taking on new customers as well as priced reasonably (within current parameters). At times this can mean that the bottom line for the consumer, quality, is relegated to the end of the list.
Quality garments, especially for children, should feel soft to the touch.
They should preferably have been pre-washed to avoid any additional shrinkage. Of course some items such as suits do require dry-cleaning and are not lumped into this criterion.
Seams should be straight and lay reasonably flat. Seams should also be “clean”. No threads sticking out, no jagged edges and stitching should look even no tiny or real long stitches, no loops or missing spots.
Items should be symmetrical, this is not a joke; I have come across shirts with one sleeve slightly longer than the other and pockets that differed in size.
Lastly, especially for children’s clothing items should be easy to care for. No complicated washing or drying instructions. If it takes several hours to get the item to look good, in my humble opinion, it is best to leave it on the rack and find a better suited piece.
I welcome any questions, comments or suggestions.
Great post. I especially like the tip about seams. When I go shopping, I often see items with threads sticking out. That tells me they will pull apart quickly, most likely after just a few washes (which translates to a waste of money).
What I love most about the clothing I have from The Boy’s Store is that it’s top notch in both style and quality. Everything is so well made – I know it will last through both of my boys…not just one. Thanks for having such a great eye for choosing items that are well worth our money!
Thank you, I appreciate the comment and compliment.