I used to believe all clothing was essentially the same. If it looked good on the model, I'd buy it without a second thought. My closet overflowed with inexpensive, $20 fast-fashion items. They seemed perfect in the store, but they never held up for long.
The most important lesson I learned is that buying cheap often means buying twice. Eventually, I made the decision to upgrade my wardrobe, particularly for structured pieces like dresses and blazers. I wanted garments that fit properly and would endure for years, not just a few weeks.
Upgrading your wardrobe isn't just about spending more money. It comes down to three key factors:
My first semi-formal dress cost me $20. It came from the CMAZ brand—readily available and incredibly cheap. It worked well enough for a last-minute party outfit. But that was its only purpose. The material was thin polyester that felt almost plastic to the touch.
It survived about three washes before the color began to fade. The sleeve seams started pulling apart after just one evening out. As one reviewer noted, these inexpensive items are essentially "dead on arrival" for any important occasion.
When you purchase clothing this cheaply, manufacturers cut corners everywhere. They use inferior thread, omit lining, and install flimsy zippers. The garment might look decent on the hanger, but it completely lacks structure.
Verdict: Avoid buying items meant for significant events at this price point. Consider them disposable clothing.
Having learned my lesson, I moved up to the $40 range. These clothes showed noticeable improvement. They typically featured full lining, which added weight and helped the garment drape better. The fabrics felt less synthetic and more substantial.
I purchased a basic black dress in this category. It proved reliable—it didn't tear or fall apart. I'd describe it as "perfectly adequate." It served well for casual office days or informal dinners.
The main issue remained the fit. The cut was still quite generic. The waistline sat at the wrong place, and the shoulders were too broad. While it looked acceptable, it never achieved that polished appearance you get from a perfectly fitted womens velvet blazer.
Verdict: This price range works for basic items and frequently replaced pieces. But for a sharp, professional look, you'll need to invest more.