How to Spot Quality Clothing: A Beginner’s Guide
You’ve probably fallen for the “cheap but cute” trap, only for your new favorite shirt to fall apart after one wash.
But don’t fret, spotting quality clothing isn’t as hard as it sounds. With a little know-how, you can tell the difference between something that’s going to last and something that’s... well, not.
Here’s five ways to tell if that piece you’re eyeing is going to last.
1. Fabric Matters: Feel It, Love It, Keep It
First things first—fabric is everything. If you want your clothes to last, you need to start by checking what they’re made of.
Natural fibers like cotton, wool, silk, and linen are your best bet. They’ll last longer and feel way more comfortable than synthetic fabrics. Plus, they tend to breathe better, so you won’t be sweating buckets (we’ve all been there).
Hold the fabric up to the light. If it’s see-through when it shouldn’t be, that’s a sign it’s probably not going to hold up well over time.
Feel the texture. A high-quality fabric feels nice—smooth, sturdy, and soft. If it feels plasticky or rough (think when the fabric pulls at your fingernails), it’s probably not going to age well.
Pro tip: Look for blends that are 60% cotton and 40% polyester for the best balance of softness, longevity, and affordability.
2. Stitching & Construction: The Little Things Matter
Okay, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. The construction of the garment is what’s going to keep it from falling apart after a few wears.
Look at the seams. Are they even? Are they tight? If you see any loose or uneven stitching, that’s a red flag. Tight, neat stitching means the garment was made to last.
Give it a gentle tug. If the seams pull apart too easily, you’re looking at a garment that’s not built to last.
Check the inside. If the inside is messy, with raw edges or loose threads, chances are the outside isn’t much better. High-quality clothes have clean, finished seams on the inside.
3. Details & Hardware: Again, It’s All in the Small Stuff
It’s the little things that make a big difference. A few small details can tell you if the garment was made with care.
Buttons and zippers should feel sturdy and well-attached. Cheap buttons pop off after one wear, and zippers that get stuck or break just aren’t a fun time.
Lining is key. A lined piece—like a jacket or skirt—usually means it’s a higher-quality garment.
4. Fit & Shape: Does It Hold Up After One Wear?
Quality clothing doesn’t just look good—it fits well and keeps that fit over time.
A high-quality garment holds its shape. It won’t stretch out after wearing it once or sag in places it shouldn’t. If it does, that’s usually a sign of cheaper material.
Try it on and move around. A good fit should feel comfy when you sit, bend, or stretch. If it twists or doesn’t sit right, it’s probably not the best cut.
Structured pieces, like blazers or jackets, should have some reinforcement. You don’t want a blazer that feels like a limp noodle—look for a bit of structure in the shoulders or body.
5. Care & Longevity: Can It Handle Life?
We all know the struggle of washing something once and watching it shrink, fade, or lose its shape. A well-made garment will stand up to everyday life, including laundry day.
Read the care label. If it says “dry clean only” on something that feels like it should be machine washable, you might want to rethink it. High-quality items should be practical to care for.
Does it pass the wash test? If you’ve already bought it, check out reviews or ask your friends if it holds up after a few washes. Good quality fabrics resist shrinking and pilling—while cheap ones just get fuzzy after a couple of rounds in the wash.
It’s not about being a fashion expert—it’s about paying attention to the little things.
The fabric, stitching, fit, and care of a garment are all clues that help you figure out whether it’s going to last or fall apart after a few washes.
Next time you’re shopping, take a second to check out those seams, feel the fabric, and make sure the zippers and buttons are actually functional. When you start looking for these small details, you’ll be able to spot a quality piece from a mile away.
