Where Has All the Great Product Gone?

Where has all the great product gone? Why is it so difficult to find fashion that makes me absolutely HAVE TO have it no matter what the cost?

Things are tight this season due to the economy but even with a bit of birthday cash stashed in my handbag it was truly hard to find a place to part with it. When I buy something now, I want to really enjoy it. I want to know that I am getting something I absolutely LOVE. I want to add a new classic to my closet, and something unique to my wardrobe. I want to purchase stuff for my kids that they'll love too. Do you?

So where do we go?

The department stores are a bore. It's the same old stuff, the same old set up, the same old markdowns.

J.Crew is doing a great job in their marketing, but I have to admit once you take that cashmere cardigan out of its environment it's just another sweater. I give the jewelry an A for style, and it looks fabulous on my sister-in-law, but I'm in the jewelry biz so it's not what I want to purchase.

Oh yes, and how about Abercrombie and Fitch? You can smell it a mile away so there's no need to check the directory, just follow your nose. Unfortunately it's just more of the same here as well. My teenage daughter has already discovered she'd rather not pay so much for cotton pj bottoms and t-shirts just to be a walking logo.

She's moved on to discover Urban Outfitters which I must say has come a long way. It's much more sophisticated and edgy than I recall. I like their recycled shoes and boots. Very cool. They have some of the best "junk on the side" as I call it. Great bureau top mirrors, boxes, and jewelry. Chic little wallets and really weird books. Its fun to browse in there. I even picked up a couple of hoodies for my son that had some nice details.

This store put me in the mood for the more grown up and girlie version, Anthropolgie.

Now here's where all the great product has gone ladies.

Stuff for your teen, your mom, your friends and yourself. Best of all they now have really great shoes, and better sizes in apparel than they have had in the past.

I purchased a retro-style low heeled metallic shoe with ribbon ties. These are shoes that make me smile. The price was right as well, ($125.00 range), which I am willing to pay for quality, style, and something unique.

Also new was a fabulous range of socks. Anklets, knee socks and tights with antique feeling frills, edges and appliqués. Muted and heathered colors keep the looks from getting too cute.

The 'junk on the side' has always been a dream at Anthropologie. Fabulous coffee table books, cotton kitchen cloths, door knobs, soaps and dishes abound. My daughter purchased a knit light blue hat and some dreamy smelling lip balm. The kitchen aprons are so adorable you'll be tempted as we were, but I cannot recall the last time (any time?) I actually used one so I managed to control myself! But how weird is it that I was actually considering it?

The products from Anthropologie don't lose their attitude when removed from the store. The designs they invest in have details that hold up on their own, that's what I like about this store, the details. The décor and layout are transporting. The sales help was efficient and happy. No matter what your budget is this holiday, Anthropologie is a great place to shop. Here is where you can find wonderful, unique and affordable accessories for gifts this year.

I cannot wait to go back. There's a great pair of tall black leather boots for under $300.oo that I keep thinking about! Gotta have 'em.