How to Pick Out High Quality Clothes

High price does not always mean you are getting high quality clothing. So if price is not a good indicator what do you look for? Here are a few things you can do before you buy an item to see if it is of good quality and will last as long as possible.

Tip #1: The Wrinkle Test

Take a section of the clothing and crush it in your hand. If the wrinkles stay, the fabric is not of the highest quality and you should probably pass it up, but if the wrinkles fall out. That's a good indicator that the fabric is strong and durable.

Tip #2: The Inner Lining

If the garment you are considering has lining be sure that it can't be seen from the outside of the garment. You'll also want to check the there stitching on the lining is straight. If it doesn't even have stitching, beware!

Tip #3: Line 'em Up

Does the item of clothing have a pattern? Look at places where the clothing has been sewn together. Does the pattern match up in most places? If so then you have a great quality piece of clothing.

Tip #4: Nice and Secure

Check trims, pockets, buttons and fasteners. Are they all sewn down securely? If you are finding the item on a clearance rack there may be one or two of these items that are not, but if most are, then you've found quality.

Tip #5: Smooth Stitching

Check seams, edges and stitches. The stitches should be smooth, straight and unbroken. Seams should be smooth and flat and edges should look finished.

Tip #6: Around the Neck

Look at the collars and lapels; they should have even points that do not curl. Make sure there is no bunching around the neck when the item is put on.

Tip #7: I'm Flexible

Look for hems that have an even width and are wide enough to allow for alterations. People's bodies change over time and a high quality garment will be one that can be altered to allow for this.

Tip #8: Button Me Up

Look at the row of buttons. Is the row straight? Do the buttons lie flat on the garment? The same goes for zippers, hooks or anything similar.

Tip #9: Look for Reinforcements

On pockets look for a triangle stitched at the corners. This should be on any quality pair of jeans especially on the back pockets.

Not all clothes will match all of these requirements, but if you can be sure that your garment fits three or four of these then you've probably found an article of clothing that will last as long as you plan to wear it.