Keep the shoes! ❤️ Absolutely agree about the insane prices and charmless service. I was in Italy last week, sales staff should all go there to learn how to assist and take personal pride and pleasure in giving good service.
I’m with you on the sticker shock. The prices are so high that it often feels wrong to spend it on something one rarely “needs”. Resale feels much more responsible - less cost, less waste, etc. - all the reasons you write about. Retail is also a reminder of how out of whack things have gotten societally which takes away the fun shopping can be. So, yes, I agree it seems something must change.
I’m considering going the “classic” route with the shoes- GH Bass or Sperry topsiders, seeing how that is the original and much more affordable (& I can actually find my size available!). Re: Lip product- check out Revision Skincare’s YouthFULL Lip Replenisher. It’s amazing!!
Shopping is neither fun or special anymore. The price tags are an insult to one’s intelligence, borderline tacky. Imagine being Canadian where the exchange is 1.35. I WISH a handbag was 3k. 5k here. Im done.
What timing! I just fled the Prada epicenter on Broadway, frustrated and insulted by their pricing. How is a navy cashmere crewneck $1,820? I bought a runway coat from the fall 2010 collection that was about $1600, and while I understand and expect prices to rise, things feel completely arbitrary and detached from reality.
Like you, I am drawn to more independent designers and brands that feel more unique, offer better value, and perhaps I will mix in a European designer here and there as a splurge or from resale.
I just bought (after reading your post) a few pieces from Maria McManus. Hoping I like when they come. Although not inexpensive, they seem quite reasonable from most of the things out there, as long as I think I'll wear them a lot. Prices of everything have become ridiculous. I don't want to even get started about hotel rooms! I'd keep the shoes. They elevate jeans and a tee to something more special.
I couldn’t agree more about the inflated prices, but I have to believe it will ultimately have a backlash as most women I know are shying away from those brands to smaller, more independent ones … and shopping their own closets more. And, as you noted, when prices mirror that for actual travel/adventures, clothes become trivial. Life is richer, and we grow immensely, with exploration and exposure to new places, people and cultures!
Ahhh…, but those Miu Miu shoes look good! And comfortable? Keep! It’ll be a pretty decent cost per wear in the end and so classic it’s not like they’ll look dated a few years from now.
My retail sweet spot has become my local designer boutique that specializes in small Italian brands I had never heard of. Gorgeous sweaters, scarves, wool jackets and coats that are stunning. The items I purchase are high quality fabrics at a lower cost than Chanel and Prada which I don't consider anymore unless resale. The staff are excellent and know my taste - even text me when new items come in that they think I would like. Give your local boutiques a look you might actually find amazing pieces at great price points and incredible customer service.
Hi Jennifer. On the subject of lip gloss, I am always on the hunt for a long lasting & nourishing non-toxic lip gloss. I have been using the RMS Liplights in “Bare” for daytime & the Lipnights in “Sleepover” at bedtime. Both are soothing & hydrating plus the tubes are recyclable! I highly recommend!
Keep the shoes! ❤️ Absolutely agree about the insane prices and charmless service. I was in Italy last week, sales staff should all go there to learn how to assist and take personal pride and pleasure in giving good service.
Right?! I wish we could bring back good service.
Agree with keep the shoes — I feel like even when they are “out” again you will wear them with gusto.
I’m with you on the sticker shock. The prices are so high that it often feels wrong to spend it on something one rarely “needs”. Resale feels much more responsible - less cost, less waste, etc. - all the reasons you write about. Retail is also a reminder of how out of whack things have gotten societally which takes away the fun shopping can be. So, yes, I agree it seems something must change.
Yes! I've been happy with my recent resale purchases, and there is a certain thrill in the hunt which is missing elsewhere.
I’m considering going the “classic” route with the shoes- GH Bass or Sperry topsiders, seeing how that is the original and much more affordable (& I can actually find my size available!). Re: Lip product- check out Revision Skincare’s YouthFULL Lip Replenisher. It’s amazing!!
Thanks for the gloss rec!
Shopping is neither fun or special anymore. The price tags are an insult to one’s intelligence, borderline tacky. Imagine being Canadian where the exchange is 1.35. I WISH a handbag was 3k. 5k here. Im done.
Yikes! Yes, resale is often the way to go now.
What timing! I just fled the Prada epicenter on Broadway, frustrated and insulted by their pricing. How is a navy cashmere crewneck $1,820? I bought a runway coat from the fall 2010 collection that was about $1600, and while I understand and expect prices to rise, things feel completely arbitrary and detached from reality.
Like you, I am drawn to more independent designers and brands that feel more unique, offer better value, and perhaps I will mix in a European designer here and there as a splurge or from resale.
I know, it's a bit of madness. It's about choosing wisely.
There is a T-shirt by The Row making the rounds. $490 for a viscose/polyester blend crew neck tee. What the actual *$%@ ??!
I just bought (after reading your post) a few pieces from Maria McManus. Hoping I like when they come. Although not inexpensive, they seem quite reasonable from most of the things out there, as long as I think I'll wear them a lot. Prices of everything have become ridiculous. I don't want to even get started about hotel rooms! I'd keep the shoes. They elevate jeans and a tee to something more special.
I couldn’t agree more about the inflated prices, but I have to believe it will ultimately have a backlash as most women I know are shying away from those brands to smaller, more independent ones … and shopping their own closets more. And, as you noted, when prices mirror that for actual travel/adventures, clothes become trivial. Life is richer, and we grow immensely, with exploration and exposure to new places, people and cultures!
Ahhh…, but those Miu Miu shoes look good! And comfortable? Keep! It’ll be a pretty decent cost per wear in the end and so classic it’s not like they’ll look dated a few years from now.
Yes, I do think I will wear them A LOT, which is key factor.
I’m sure you could find a great dupe for those Miu ones?
The best ones are by Quoddy. Hand made in Maine. Very nice.
My retail sweet spot has become my local designer boutique that specializes in small Italian brands I had never heard of. Gorgeous sweaters, scarves, wool jackets and coats that are stunning. The items I purchase are high quality fabrics at a lower cost than Chanel and Prada which I don't consider anymore unless resale. The staff are excellent and know my taste - even text me when new items come in that they think I would like. Give your local boutiques a look you might actually find amazing pieces at great price points and incredible customer service.
Shop local is always a good idea. I'm also all about good customer service. So rare these days.
A bit late to the party, but yes, the shoes are a yes☺️ I just found a pair in my size and considering hitting the button. Are they TTS?
Hi Jennifer. On the subject of lip gloss, I am always on the hunt for a long lasting & nourishing non-toxic lip gloss. I have been using the RMS Liplights in “Bare” for daytime & the Lipnights in “Sleepover” at bedtime. Both are soothing & hydrating plus the tubes are recyclable! I highly recommend!
Thank you for the recs!
Could you share what local boutique for the jeans ? Thanks ☺️
Pamela Robbins in Scarsdale NY. They have a great selection of designers!
Thanks !