Hey everyone, hope you are well. As I always do I am attaching random (but pretty) pictures between the text just to keep it interesting and have something pretty to rest your eyes on:)
Today’s topic is one I’m really curious to hear your thoughts on. I tend to do most of my shopping online because I work a lot and don’t find myself in stores nearly as often as I used to. Honestly, when I do, I’m usually underwhelmed. Inventory feels low, stores are really understaffed and let’s face it—shopping online is just so much easier.
But sometimes seeing things in person is hard to beat. I’ll admit, I’m a self-proclaimed handbag addict. The caveat? I actually use and love my bags, some of which I’ve had for 10–12 years. When I moved, I realized I had even more than I realized so I put myself on a bit of a handbag-buying embargo.
I gave a few away and my sister in law who has an account with one of the online resellers for high quality bags is going to list some of the ones I haven’t used in a while. The rest, I am keeping and cherish deeply. The funny thing is, with a new closet to organize them in, I’ve been rotating them more than ever and appreciating them all over again.
The other day, I stopped into Saks Fifth Avenue (which, from what I understand, is struggling financially and it showed) to pick up a gift for someone. I wanted to see the gift in person so made the trip. While I was there, I wandered past the handbag department—and my jaw nearly dropped. Aside from the oversized designer logos plastered above each “boutique” (they have separate spaces for each brand), the bags themselves were shockingly ugly and uninspiring.
I do not use those words lightly. It almost felt like some kind of social experiment! Honestly, even if they were giving them away, I don’t think I would have taken a single one. Maybe there was a hidden gem I missed, but overall, the selection was shockingly cheap-looking.
Then you add in all the buzz around Chanel’s declining quality while raising prices by 30%, or the absurd Hermes “game” that people still willingly play, and it just makes me wonder—what has happened? I actually went home that day and felt like hugging every one of the bags in my closet because they represent a time when craftsmanship still mattered and it shows. They look like quality. Even though some of them were quite expensive, I never questioned whether they were worth it and i surely have worn them enough to justify the cost.
On a side note, the small travel bag I went in to buy for her was a letdown, cheap looking with a zipper that looks like it was the Dollar Store. I went in. with the intention to purchase it but I couldn’t justify it and I. know my friend would have felt the same (who in a picture thought she liked it) So, I left with a boring gift card because I needed something for that day. I will not be back there anytime soon, at least won’t go near that handbag dept!
The funny thing is that as I was on my way to my car, I passed the “men’s department”. OH MY WORD. I wish my phone had not been dead, the clothes were horrid. I kept thinking about my dad and what his reaction would have been. He is no self proclaimed fashion plate by any stretch but always looks proper and put together. I know we would have had a good laugh. I just said to myself “who is wearing these things“!
Honestly, I feel like this handbag experience is just a small example of a larger shift happening in so many industries, it transcends into fashion, furniture, clothing. I see some of the “fashion” trends out there now, and I’m just baffled. Maybe I’m not the biggest trendsetter, but I do love classic, timeless well made pieces. That said, if a fun trend comes along—a certain silhouette, or an “it” color—I might embrace it in a small way. I’ll never splurge on a trendy piece, but I don’t mind playing around with it at a more reasonable price point.
I’d love to hear your thoughts—have you noticed the same shift in quality or is it me? Do you still shop in stores, or are you mostly online? And what do you think about the state of handbags and fashion in general? I wonder if the phenomenon of “fast fashion” has been a game changer in how the high end bag lines (and clothing) are approaching both the designs, price points and marketing of their lines. All I know is I have seen a huge shift…and in the wrong direction.
On a side note, since we are on the subject. Two reasonable bag lines, that I think are very much worth the money and are very nice quality are below. I own two bags from both so can attest to this. Old Trend is offering 30% to Enchanted Home customers! I believe if you sign up for mailers from Pamela Munson, you can receive a 10% discount. Both of these lines blew away anything I saw at Saks at a mere fraction of the price…go figure. A brand name is not necessarily always synonymous with quality (unfortunately). That said, there are certainly brands that still produce beautiful quality bags with high price points, I just find that to be less so than how it used to be.
As I always do, I look forward to seeing how you weigh in on this, and most curious as to what you think. Wishing everyone a great day. Until next time…
I shop at Saks online because I’m not physically near a store along with
Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom
Everything looks fine to me
They carry all the designer name brands and I mostly shop one of these stores when I can find my size and a sale
Also, they frequently have new brands that they advertise
I shop in person whenever I can because I want to support the local stores whether they are small business or large. I don’t want to end up with just Amazon as my only shopping source lol
And perhaps a low inventory is because Some locations have smaller stores than others
I am fortunate to have Oakbrook shopping center in Oak Brook Illinois as my shopping source
I go to oak brook too. We must be from a similar area. I very seldom find anything at Nordstrom anymore. Used to shop at the gap and banana republic but they have changed. So not much for me there. And they closed Ann Taylor’s and loft. So it is very different.
I totally share your sentiment about the handbags. They are definitely marketing to a different audience. When one pays thousands for a handbag, one might think the stitching would be even and nice. As an interior designer, I have fought this same battle ever since RH and PB became the “rage”. The big mfr’s moved to China, and this quality suffered as well. I just thought I was a dinosaur.
I agree. So sad. We just finished shopping for all new kitchen appliances…all semi died at the same time…
Relocated at 75 and 78 to be near family in a Mac mansion….Anyway, was an exhausting three weeks of study, etc.
Whether it is clothes, handbags or appliances….a sad state of affairs.
Family joke: first wedding received from Macys was a blender and it is still going….54 years later.
Enjoy your blog and shop.
I think the proliferation of online shopping has severely hurt brick and mortar retailers–including the big ones like Saks. We live very close to the best shopping mall in Dallas, TX, so I do sometimes shop in person. It IS good to see items in person, but seems like a lot of trouble after enjoying online shopping. I haven’t shopped for a handbag recently, but do sometimes walk through that section in a store like Nordstrom and haven’t yet seen anything I thought I just have to have (at any price). I think some department stores have TOO much inventory. I wish that they would better curate what they sell.
For classic pieces, J McLaughlin never disappoints. Well-made clothes, beautiful shoes and bags, extra large scarves, and cute sunglasses. For trendy pieces, look at Mango. You can shop either of these brands in person or online.
I agree with you completely about the styles they are showing in Saks. Most of the clothes and shoes are outrageous and unattractive. Very disappointing. No wonder they are struggling financially. I don’t know anyone anymore who finds Saks to be their “ go to” place.
You are 100%correct. I spent 4 decades in the fashion industry and was proud of my career and industry. When I look at the industry today, I am not proud. I have 2 closets filled with high quality gorgeous dressy clothes that aren’t really a match with today’s lifestyle style. Now, I pair a St John jacket iwith my jeans in order to have some use.
I will not get rid of the special occasion items as I could never find something half as good now. It’s saddens me. There are no more “Merchant Princes” and “The Silk Road” is full of potholes.
I don’t think her father died-I think she was saying that they would have a good laugh if he had been in the store with her. In fact, I think she said he was coming to visit her soon.
I call it “disposable” fashion & can’t be bothered to shop at many retail places. For handbags specifically, I tend to search pre-owned in excellent condition to get the quality without the price point.
I totally agree with you and have definitely noticed a decline in quality and craftmanship of handbags and clothing, in certain department stores. In the last couple years I have made a couple purchases from some upscale Boutiques (specifically in Palm Beach, Florida) and have been very pleased! I prefer shopping in a “Brick and Mortar” store… I only shop online if it’s a site or item highly recommended. I believe there is definitely a market for “CLASSIC”, now how do we get the message to the manufacturers and the buyers??
I appreciate your honestly with shipping these days. I was really a true Neiman Marcus/Nordstrom’s shopper and now I buy NWT items from Poshmark or EBay. JCrew is about the only place I purchase in store from anymore. I grew up with shopping excursions with my family to Marshall Field’s, lunch in the Oak Room(?) or was that Dayton’s in Minneapolis.
My purse collection is limited, but my Chanel purses of years ago, were not that big of a deal like they and so many are now.
Too bad about Saks, I miss Dayton’s Marshall Field’s, I Magnin, and so many others… have Influencers changed how we shop? Home goods?
Totally agree with everything you said regarding fashion etc. I feel like decline in all areas seems to be a way of life any more. Also, Just feel like there’s a decline with humans anymore. Call me old fashion but overall, I think things were better a few generations back.
I think fewer young people today appreciate classic looks, whether in clothing or furniture, and it’s reflected in the offerings we see. The stores I’ve always relied on, such as Saks and Nordstrom, are often a disappointment. I love handbags, and it’s rare that I find one I like these days. I have to do a lot more searching than I ever did in years past to find items I want to purchase.
You are right on. Same goes for shoes. Some very trashy. High priced and sad Hard to recommend a brand due to changes. Have loved your suggestions. As for men,s clothes my husband. And I just laugh. Gues were old but still have taste!
Agree that clothing prices have gotten so expensive that it is hard to justify the cost even if it well made. Unfortunately, we now live in a world of cheap, disposable fashion manufactured by companies who do not care about the environment. I’m in my 60s but even in my 20s I preferred having fewer things but that were of nicer quality. At that time, I thought BR, J Crew, Talbots, and Ann Taylor were nice quality but would buy some things from Neimans (I’m a Texas girl). The current fashion styles are not the most flattering on me or my lifestyle and it is an effort to find things that work. As an aside, I used to really enjoy it when you would do a “Which one would you choose ?” for clothing. Remember those?
I have maybe 3 purses and 2 larger bags/totes. I’ve had them all for years–they look just like they did when I bought them, in beautiful shape, and I bought all of them at estate sales. For anywhere from $50-$200-ish. I almost never shop retail, except for gifts, and when I do, I share your feelings Tina. I would so much rather have a quality, well-made used item than a shiny new one that is lesser quality.
I switched to a light, discreet, black crossbody bag that is designed vs pickpockets on an international trip and I have not gone back to other handbags. I never wore logos to begin with, and now, even luxury bags without logos have no appeal for me. For me to buy a luxury bag now,, it would have to have some unique feature that I find useful, and the line, color, and material would have to be extraordinary. Either way, a bag must fit into how i live my life, which is active and busy. I doubt I will ever go back from the crossbody type bag that I use now. I can afford luxury bags, but I will put my money to better use : charity above all, and then worth while gifts to those I love, experiences, travel, art, and because I have what I already love, perhaps a piece of jewelry now and then.
Tina,
you are right. Fashion AND quality has hit an all-time low. Looking ‘classic’ used to be a sign of good taste and being well brought up. Now, I think, the youths see it as dowdy and way too frugal. I used to have a thing for handbags too, as my poor ‘ballet feet’ from my younger days don’t allow much fashion in footwear and with 4 pregnancies spread out over a number of YEARS, under my belt, well this did not allow for a lot of fashion in clothing (remember ‘maternity clothes’ when we were a bit
more discreet that neatly kind of disguised the ‘bump’?? ) Well, a good, high-end purse always fit! You could waddle into any very nice place and with that handbag on your arm you were ok! So, anyway, yes, its my opinion that the quality of the good, designer handbag has gone to the birds. I still covet my Chanel ‘wallet on a chain’ clutch and since Covid, I believe I’ve only used it twice, but it is my FOREVER bag that can be used for nearly ANY and all occasions and I will never sell it nor give it away . My daughters and grands can argue about it someday IF something like that is still in style, of course. From what I see too, maybe not……
Things have REALLY changed, and my daughter and her friends sock away money here and there to buy the largest bag in the TOP brand name for them , which is known with much affection by TWO letters (one is an ‘L’) so they can use it as a DIAPER BAG! With THIS in mind. perhaps they don’t notice the quality or perhaps do not care. Also, THAT brand is not always made in the city of origin. SO, AGREE, AGREE, AGREE with you!
You are also right about shopping. Just stay home and do it unless it’s a cute little boutique with something different (Nantucket!)
So much better to shop in my crummy old robe (very comfortable and GREAT quality!) with a cup of tea than deal with the mall or a big department store. caveat: Gift cards. You have to go in to get a cute little gift card in a card stock fold over. ‘E gift cards are just not the same. Print one on computer paper and fold up and put in a card? Nope. Send one to someone’s email? Nope. SOME stores though, you can call and request it to be sent to you to put in a cute, tiny gift bag while you stay in the cozy jammies! 😉
Tina, you asked, “who is wearing these things?” I imagine it is the same people with tattoos, multiple body piercings, fluffy eyelashes, and lips that appear swollen. After the Oscars, people were asking, “who watches these movies?” I think we have an entire generation that have gone off the rails! LOL
We don’t have many stores around lately. Our Nordstrom have horrible inventory appealing to lower income? Saks in Chicago was great the last time I was in. Neiman Marcus was not that great.
I love touching everything. It’s not as fun as it used to be to go in store shopping.
Totally about quality and shopping in general. I just watched the Netflix documentary Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy which was very eye-opening and will make you really want to swear off shopping.
Totally agree about quality and shopping in general. I just watched the Netflix documentary Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy which was very eye-opening and will make you really want to swear off shopping.
Now I know another reason why I enjoy your blog. It’s like we belong to a little club–all like-minded. We all remember when taste was in fashion and we looked forward to spending our free time enjoying lunch and shopping. It’s so sad we don’t have that luxury any longer but it’s fun to get together and reminisce. Thank you, Tina, for bringing us your blog and the happy times we share.
Although I hate to admit it…. I think we are showing our age reckon? Maybe the Gen z or x or what ever letter they are have different tastes. I agree some wild stuff out there…. times have changed for sure and so goes our opinions too as we age.
I totally agree with you. I’ve shopped at Nordstroms for 40 years, where clerks dressed professionally and in great taste. Clothes were pressed before they were hung and the shoe department was to die for. Then COVID hit and my Nordstroms moved to a smaller location. The clerks dress shabbily, clothes are not pressed before they go on display and the quality is down, plus Nordstroms is now catering to a much younger shopper, who, most of the time, cannot afford to shop there. Their shoe department is 90% high-end shoes and designs I would never wear. I don’t shop there anymore. I do most of my shopping on line as well.
Yes Tina I believe quality and customer service have been on the decline. I was recently in a well known department store which I haven’t been in for sometime. I was horrified by how messy and unorganized the merchandise was on the shelves and racks. I absolutely couldn’t believe what I was seeing. There was a musty odor throughout the store as well. I left pretty quickly and made no purchases. The store was Macy. But Macy is not the only store with similar issues.
I do enjoy shopping and hate to see this happening. I like to actually see and feel an item. Looking at a picture online doesn’t always give an actual representation of the item. But I guess that’s the way of the world these days.
I do enjoy shopping at privately owned shops and find great customer service and merchandise.
Always look forward to seeing your posts.
Tina I am so with you. I haven’t been in a department store in months. Last time I went I found the clothes to be cheaply made of cheap fabric and so ugly. What are people thinking. I used to be proud of the clothes I bought and wore. Now I can’t find anything I want to spend money on. Online shopping is a disaster too. Cheap fabric and can’t find a proper fit. I just keep recycling my old stuff. So disappointing. I guess the days of “I feel pretty” have come and gone and no on seems to care anymore. Thanks for always showing us something lovely. https://fortheloveofold.com
In my opinion the stores seem to be obsessed with showing what is of the moment, which connects to people who are the same. Just because something has a certain label, doesn’t mean it is a classic investment piece.
I do like seeing that some younger shoppers are savvy and are embracing vintage. Sites like The Real Real go to incredible lengths to provide quality items that entice and indeed satisfy. At the end of the day, classic quality never goes out of style.
I am a huge on line shopper! I do enjoy going into small shops . While traveling or into our village shops.
I absolutely love Pamela Munsons bags. I have a few (one you have as well) I have even given them as gifts.
I feel that the designer bags are so expensive now. So glad I have a nice collection from the past. One of my Chanel bags I have had for 35 years. When we were recently in Paris it kind of blew me away that you needed an appointment at Hermes for a bag purchase. If they had what you wanted. I went for a scarf so no appointment needed. It was an extravagant purchase ( I wanted a bigger cashmere one) but as I had not been to Paris since I was in high school I wanted something special.
Oh my goodness- you read my mind. It is disappointing and honestly, sad. I was a long time customer of Neiman Marcus and said farewell to them a few years ago. Nordstrom, for me, is nearing the end too. Between the selections, quality and customer service, they have fallen apart.
Totally agree! Most of my shopping is now done on line and I have a very difficult time finding anything appealing enough to purchase. At least 50% of the time the item is returned. Quality is just not there. I do like small boutique stores where I don’t feel completely overwhelmed. Used to be a regular at Neiman’s…not so much anymore. Have recently been searching for a new handbag but I refuse to pay the staggering prices. So I am enjoying my (vintage) bags that I have owned for years. They still look great! It’s all kind of sad.
I feel like when I did my most serious “socializing” , retail was in its heyday. I have closets full of designer clothes and dozens of handbags. Sadly, I wholeheartedly agree with the quality of today’s offerings. So many of the designer clothes are just plain ugly as well as way too revealing for me, (even if I was in my 20’s.) I also recently texted with an SA at Hermes in Princeton who used to work at Neiman Marcus. I thought I might pay her a visit. She texted back that when I came in, she would enlighten me about the new rules for purchasing handbags. Sorry, I won’t need that lesson. I already have several of the “unattainables” and I will not be playing their new game! Unfortunately, it seems like in the future, brick and mortar stores will only be a thing of fond memory.
Specialty Boutiques is the best for me or a seamstress. I like my clothing to be unique and not mass made you see in retail stores. But I will have to say for your house and garden HOMEGOODS has started selling nice accessories. I wouldn’t buy the cheap made furniture.
I totally agree! Was astonished in London and Scotland last summer at the level of customer service in every store we went into. I am soused to having to hunt down a sales person and there there were at leader in every department. Every purchase beautifully wrapped etc. I live in a small midwestern city and shopping has never been great but Saks and Nordstrom could usually be counted on. Less and less in store merchandise every time I visit each location. Our Nordstrom mainly has “comfort shoes” now. Lots of Uggs, Birkenstocks etc. So disappointing. Shop almost exclusively on line because of diminishing service and inventory, but I hate having to package everything up, print labels and go to a shipping location to return. It’s such a slog and hardly enjoyable anymore.
My friend and I complain about this all the time. I feel like the door is open for someone to take the lead in fashion with quality fabrics and workmanship again.
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Hey everyone, hope you are well. As I always do I am attaching random (but pretty) pictures between the text just to keep it interesting and have something pretty to rest your eyes on:)
Today’s topic is one I’m really curious to hear your thoughts on. I tend to do most of my shopping online because I work a lot and don’t find myself in stores nearly as often as I used to. Honestly, when I do, I’m usually underwhelmed. Inventory feels low, stores are really understaffed and let’s face it—shopping online is just so much easier.
But sometimes seeing things in person is hard to beat. I’ll admit, I’m a self-proclaimed handbag addict. The caveat? I actually use and love my bags, some of which I’ve had for 10–12 years. When I moved, I realized I had even more than I realized so I put myself on a bit of a handbag-buying embargo.
I gave a few away and my sister in law who has an account with one of the online resellers for high quality bags is going to list some of the ones I haven’t used in a while. The rest, I am keeping and cherish deeply. The funny thing is, with a new closet to organize them in, I’ve been rotating them more than ever and appreciating them all over again.
The other day, I stopped into Saks Fifth Avenue (which, from what I understand, is struggling financially and it showed) to pick up a gift for someone. I wanted to see the gift in person so made the trip. While I was there, I wandered past the handbag department—and my jaw nearly dropped. Aside from the oversized designer logos plastered above each “boutique” (they have separate spaces for each brand), the bags themselves were shockingly ugly and uninspiring.
I do not use those words lightly. It almost felt like some kind of social experiment! Honestly, even if they were giving them away, I don’t think I would have taken a single one. Maybe there was a hidden gem I missed, but overall, the selection was shockingly cheap-looking.
Then you add in all the buzz around Chanel’s declining quality while raising prices by 30%, or the absurd Hermes “game” that people still willingly play, and it just makes me wonder—what has happened? I actually went home that day and felt like hugging every one of the bags in my closet because they represent a time when craftsmanship still mattered and it shows. They look like quality. Even though some of them were quite expensive, I never questioned whether they were worth it and i surely have worn them enough to justify the cost.
On a side note, the small travel bag I went in to buy for her was a letdown, cheap looking with a zipper that looks like it was the Dollar Store. I went in. with the intention to purchase it but I couldn’t justify it and I. know my friend would have felt the same (who in a picture thought she liked it) So, I left with a boring gift card because I needed something for that day. I will not be back there anytime soon, at least won’t go near that handbag dept!
The funny thing is that as I was on my way to my car, I passed the “men’s department”. OH MY WORD. I wish my phone had not been dead, the clothes were horrid. I kept thinking about my dad and what his reaction would have been. He is no self proclaimed fashion plate by any stretch but always looks proper and put together. I know we would have had a good laugh. I just said to myself “who is wearing these things“!
Honestly, I feel like this handbag experience is just a small example of a larger shift happening in so many industries, it transcends into fashion, furniture, clothing. I see some of the “fashion” trends out there now, and I’m just baffled. Maybe I’m not the biggest trendsetter, but I do love classic, timeless well made pieces. That said, if a fun trend comes along—a certain silhouette, or an “it” color—I might embrace it in a small way. I’ll never splurge on a trendy piece, but I don’t mind playing around with it at a more reasonable price point.
I’d love to hear your thoughts—have you noticed the same shift in quality or is it me? Do you still shop in stores, or are you mostly online? And what do you think about the state of handbags and fashion in general? I wonder if the phenomenon of “fast fashion” has been a game changer in how the high end bag lines (and clothing) are approaching both the designs, price points and marketing of their lines. All I know is I have seen a huge shift…and in the wrong direction.
On a side note, since we are on the subject. Two reasonable bag lines, that I think are very much worth the money and are very nice quality are below. I own two bags from both so can attest to this. Old Trend is offering 30% to Enchanted Home customers! I believe if you sign up for mailers from Pamela Munson, you can receive a 10% discount. Both of these lines blew away anything I saw at Saks at a mere fraction of the price…go figure. A brand name is not necessarily always synonymous with quality (unfortunately). That said, there are certainly brands that still produce beautiful quality bags with high price points, I just find that to be less so than how it used to be.
As I always do, I look forward to seeing how you weigh in on this, and most curious as to what you think. Wishing everyone a great day. Until next time…
Click here to visit Old Line
Click here to visit Pamela Munson
TRUTH!!! *sigh* franki
I shop at Saks online because I’m not physically near a store along with
Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom
Everything looks fine to me
They carry all the designer name brands and I mostly shop one of these stores when I can find my size and a sale
Also, they frequently have new brands that they advertise
I shop in person whenever I can because I want to support the local stores whether they are small business or large. I don’t want to end up with just Amazon as my only shopping source lol
And perhaps a low inventory is because Some locations have smaller stores than others
I am fortunate to have Oakbrook shopping center in Oak Brook Illinois as my shopping source
I go to oak brook too. We must be from a similar area. I very seldom find anything at Nordstrom anymore. Used to shop at the gap and banana republic but they have changed. So not much for me there. And they closed Ann Taylor’s and loft. So it is very different.
I totally share your sentiment about the handbags. They are definitely marketing to a different audience. When one pays thousands for a handbag, one might think the stitching would be even and nice. As an interior designer, I have fought this same battle ever since RH and PB became the “rage”. The big mfr’s moved to China, and this quality suffered as well. I just thought I was a dinosaur.
I agree. So sad. We just finished shopping for all new kitchen appliances…all semi died at the same time…
Relocated at 75 and 78 to be near family in a Mac mansion….Anyway, was an exhausting three weeks of study, etc.
Whether it is clothes, handbags or appliances….a sad state of affairs.
Family joke: first wedding received from Macys was a blender and it is still going….54 years later.
Enjoy your blog and shop.
I think the proliferation of online shopping has severely hurt brick and mortar retailers–including the big ones like Saks. We live very close to the best shopping mall in Dallas, TX, so I do sometimes shop in person. It IS good to see items in person, but seems like a lot of trouble after enjoying online shopping. I haven’t shopped for a handbag recently, but do sometimes walk through that section in a store like Nordstrom and haven’t yet seen anything I thought I just have to have (at any price). I think some department stores have TOO much inventory. I wish that they would better curate what they sell.
For classic pieces, J McLaughlin never disappoints. Well-made clothes, beautiful shoes and bags, extra large scarves, and cute sunglasses. For trendy pieces, look at Mango. You can shop either of these brands in person or online.
I agree with you completely about the styles they are showing in Saks. Most of the clothes and shoes are outrageous and unattractive. Very disappointing. No wonder they are struggling financially. I don’t know anyone anymore who finds Saks to be their “ go to” place.
You are 100%correct. I spent 4 decades in the fashion industry and was proud of my career and industry. When I look at the industry today, I am not proud. I have 2 closets filled with high quality gorgeous dressy clothes that aren’t really a match with today’s lifestyle style. Now, I pair a St John jacket iwith my jeans in order to have some use.
I will not get rid of the special occasion items as I could never find something half as good now. It’s saddens me. There are no more “Merchant Princes” and “The Silk Road” is full of potholes.
I’ve somehow missed the fact that you lost your father. Not sure how, I’m sorry.
I don’t think her father died-I think she was saying that they would have a good laugh if he had been in the store with her. In fact, I think she said he was coming to visit her soon.
I call it “disposable” fashion & can’t be bothered to shop at many retail places. For handbags specifically, I tend to search pre-owned in excellent condition to get the quality without the price point.
I totally agree with you and have definitely noticed a decline in quality and craftmanship of handbags and clothing, in certain department stores. In the last couple years I have made a couple purchases from some upscale Boutiques (specifically in Palm Beach, Florida) and have been very pleased! I prefer shopping in a “Brick and Mortar” store… I only shop online if it’s a site or item highly recommended. I believe there is definitely a market for “CLASSIC”, now how do we get the message to the manufacturers and the buyers??
I appreciate your honestly with shipping these days. I was really a true Neiman Marcus/Nordstrom’s shopper and now I buy NWT items from Poshmark or EBay. JCrew is about the only place I purchase in store from anymore. I grew up with shopping excursions with my family to Marshall Field’s, lunch in the Oak Room(?) or was that Dayton’s in Minneapolis.
My purse collection is limited, but my Chanel purses of years ago, were not that big of a deal like they and so many are now.
Too bad about Saks, I miss Dayton’s Marshall Field’s, I Magnin, and so many others… have Influencers changed how we shop? Home goods?
Totally agree with everything you said regarding fashion etc. I feel like decline in all areas seems to be a way of life any more. Also, Just feel like there’s a decline with humans anymore. Call me old fashion but overall, I think things were better a few generations back.
I think fewer young people today appreciate classic looks, whether in clothing or furniture, and it’s reflected in the offerings we see. The stores I’ve always relied on, such as Saks and Nordstrom, are often a disappointment. I love handbags, and it’s rare that I find one I like these days. I have to do a lot more searching than I ever did in years past to find items I want to purchase.
Tina – I agree with you 100% re lack of quality. Coco Chanel would die a second death if she watched a Runway show this past couple of years.
Class and Quality are almost a bye-gone trait in just about everything in life – thank you for your lovely Home Goods store and Blog💚🌷🩷🌸
You are right on. Same goes for shoes. Some very trashy. High priced and sad Hard to recommend a brand due to changes. Have loved your suggestions. As for men,s clothes my husband. And I just laugh. Gues were old but still have taste!
Agree that clothing prices have gotten so expensive that it is hard to justify the cost even if it well made. Unfortunately, we now live in a world of cheap, disposable fashion manufactured by companies who do not care about the environment. I’m in my 60s but even in my 20s I preferred having fewer things but that were of nicer quality. At that time, I thought BR, J Crew, Talbots, and Ann Taylor were nice quality but would buy some things from Neimans (I’m a Texas girl). The current fashion styles are not the most flattering on me or my lifestyle and it is an effort to find things that work. As an aside, I used to really enjoy it when you would do a “Which one would you choose ?” for clothing. Remember those?
I have maybe 3 purses and 2 larger bags/totes. I’ve had them all for years–they look just like they did when I bought them, in beautiful shape, and I bought all of them at estate sales. For anywhere from $50-$200-ish. I almost never shop retail, except for gifts, and when I do, I share your feelings Tina. I would so much rather have a quality, well-made used item than a shiny new one that is lesser quality.
I switched to a light, discreet, black crossbody bag that is designed vs pickpockets on an international trip and I have not gone back to other handbags. I never wore logos to begin with, and now, even luxury bags without logos have no appeal for me. For me to buy a luxury bag now,, it would have to have some unique feature that I find useful, and the line, color, and material would have to be extraordinary. Either way, a bag must fit into how i live my life, which is active and busy. I doubt I will ever go back from the crossbody type bag that I use now. I can afford luxury bags, but I will put my money to better use : charity above all, and then worth while gifts to those I love, experiences, travel, art, and because I have what I already love, perhaps a piece of jewelry now and then.
Spot on! Ditto here.
Tina,
you are right. Fashion AND quality has hit an all-time low. Looking ‘classic’ used to be a sign of good taste and being well brought up. Now, I think, the youths see it as dowdy and way too frugal. I used to have a thing for handbags too, as my poor ‘ballet feet’ from my younger days don’t allow much fashion in footwear and with 4 pregnancies spread out over a number of YEARS, under my belt, well this did not allow for a lot of fashion in clothing (remember ‘maternity clothes’ when we were a bit
more discreet that neatly kind of disguised the ‘bump’?? ) Well, a good, high-end purse always fit! You could waddle into any very nice place and with that handbag on your arm you were ok! So, anyway, yes, its my opinion that the quality of the good, designer handbag has gone to the birds. I still covet my Chanel ‘wallet on a chain’ clutch and since Covid, I believe I’ve only used it twice, but it is my FOREVER bag that can be used for nearly ANY and all occasions and I will never sell it nor give it away . My daughters and grands can argue about it someday IF something like that is still in style, of course. From what I see too, maybe not……
Things have REALLY changed, and my daughter and her friends sock away money here and there to buy the largest bag in the TOP brand name for them , which is known with much affection by TWO letters (one is an ‘L’) so they can use it as a DIAPER BAG! With THIS in mind. perhaps they don’t notice the quality or perhaps do not care. Also, THAT brand is not always made in the city of origin. SO, AGREE, AGREE, AGREE with you!
You are also right about shopping. Just stay home and do it unless it’s a cute little boutique with something different (Nantucket!)
So much better to shop in my crummy old robe (very comfortable and GREAT quality!) with a cup of tea than deal with the mall or a big department store. caveat: Gift cards. You have to go in to get a cute little gift card in a card stock fold over. ‘E gift cards are just not the same. Print one on computer paper and fold up and put in a card? Nope. Send one to someone’s email? Nope. SOME stores though, you can call and request it to be sent to you to put in a cute, tiny gift bag while you stay in the cozy jammies! 😉
Tina, you asked, “who is wearing these things?” I imagine it is the same people with tattoos, multiple body piercings, fluffy eyelashes, and lips that appear swollen. After the Oscars, people were asking, “who watches these movies?” I think we have an entire generation that have gone off the rails! LOL
We don’t have many stores around lately. Our Nordstrom have horrible inventory appealing to lower income? Saks in Chicago was great the last time I was in. Neiman Marcus was not that great.
I love touching everything. It’s not as fun as it used to be to go in store shopping.
Totally about quality and shopping in general. I just watched the Netflix documentary Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy which was very eye-opening and will make you really want to swear off shopping.
Totally agree about quality and shopping in general. I just watched the Netflix documentary Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy which was very eye-opening and will make you really want to swear off shopping.
Now I know another reason why I enjoy your blog. It’s like we belong to a little club–all like-minded. We all remember when taste was in fashion and we looked forward to spending our free time enjoying lunch and shopping. It’s so sad we don’t have that luxury any longer but it’s fun to get together and reminisce. Thank you, Tina, for bringing us your blog and the happy times we share.
Although I hate to admit it…. I think we are showing our age reckon? Maybe the Gen z or x or what ever letter they are have different tastes. I agree some wild stuff out there…. times have changed for sure and so goes our opinions too as we age.
I’m anxious to hear what you heard from readers about creams and lotions with results ….. one of the topics a few weeks ago
I totally agree with you. I’ve shopped at Nordstroms for 40 years, where clerks dressed professionally and in great taste. Clothes were pressed before they were hung and the shoe department was to die for. Then COVID hit and my Nordstroms moved to a smaller location. The clerks dress shabbily, clothes are not pressed before they go on display and the quality is down, plus Nordstroms is now catering to a much younger shopper, who, most of the time, cannot afford to shop there. Their shoe department is 90% high-end shoes and designs I would never wear. I don’t shop there anymore. I do most of my shopping on line as well.
Yes Tina I believe quality and customer service have been on the decline. I was recently in a well known department store which I haven’t been in for sometime. I was horrified by how messy and unorganized the merchandise was on the shelves and racks. I absolutely couldn’t believe what I was seeing. There was a musty odor throughout the store as well. I left pretty quickly and made no purchases. The store was Macy. But Macy is not the only store with similar issues.
I do enjoy shopping and hate to see this happening. I like to actually see and feel an item. Looking at a picture online doesn’t always give an actual representation of the item. But I guess that’s the way of the world these days.
I do enjoy shopping at privately owned shops and find great customer service and merchandise.
Always look forward to seeing your posts.
Tina I am so with you. I haven’t been in a department store in months. Last time I went I found the clothes to be cheaply made of cheap fabric and so ugly. What are people thinking. I used to be proud of the clothes I bought and wore. Now I can’t find anything I want to spend money on. Online shopping is a disaster too. Cheap fabric and can’t find a proper fit. I just keep recycling my old stuff. So disappointing. I guess the days of “I feel pretty” have come and gone and no on seems to care anymore. Thanks for always showing us something lovely. https://fortheloveofold.com
Agree with you wholeheartedly with everything you have said.
In my opinion the stores seem to be obsessed with showing what is of the moment, which connects to people who are the same. Just because something has a certain label, doesn’t mean it is a classic investment piece.
I do like seeing that some younger shoppers are savvy and are embracing vintage. Sites like The Real Real go to incredible lengths to provide quality items that entice and indeed satisfy. At the end of the day, classic quality never goes out of style.
I am a huge on line shopper! I do enjoy going into small shops . While traveling or into our village shops.
I absolutely love Pamela Munsons bags. I have a few (one you have as well) I have even given them as gifts.
I feel that the designer bags are so expensive now. So glad I have a nice collection from the past. One of my Chanel bags I have had for 35 years. When we were recently in Paris it kind of blew me away that you needed an appointment at Hermes for a bag purchase. If they had what you wanted. I went for a scarf so no appointment needed. It was an extravagant purchase ( I wanted a bigger cashmere one) but as I had not been to Paris since I was in high school I wanted something special.
Oh my goodness- you read my mind. It is disappointing and honestly, sad. I was a long time customer of Neiman Marcus and said farewell to them a few years ago. Nordstrom, for me, is nearing the end too. Between the selections, quality and customer service, they have fallen apart.
Totally agree! Most of my shopping is now done on line and I have a very difficult time finding anything appealing enough to purchase. At least 50% of the time the item is returned. Quality is just not there. I do like small boutique stores where I don’t feel completely overwhelmed. Used to be a regular at Neiman’s…not so much anymore. Have recently been searching for a new handbag but I refuse to pay the staggering prices. So I am enjoying my (vintage) bags that I have owned for years. They still look great! It’s all kind of sad.
I feel like when I did my most serious “socializing” , retail was in its heyday. I have closets full of designer clothes and dozens of handbags. Sadly, I wholeheartedly agree with the quality of today’s offerings. So many of the designer clothes are just plain ugly as well as way too revealing for me, (even if I was in my 20’s.) I also recently texted with an SA at Hermes in Princeton who used to work at Neiman Marcus. I thought I might pay her a visit. She texted back that when I came in, she would enlighten me about the new rules for purchasing handbags. Sorry, I won’t need that lesson. I already have several of the “unattainables” and I will not be playing their new game! Unfortunately, it seems like in the future, brick and mortar stores will only be a thing of fond memory.
Specialty Boutiques is the best for me or a seamstress. I like my clothing to be unique and not mass made you see in retail stores. But I will have to say for your house and garden HOMEGOODS has started selling nice accessories. I wouldn’t buy the cheap made furniture.
I totally agree! Was astonished in London and Scotland last summer at the level of customer service in every store we went into. I am soused to having to hunt down a sales person and there there were at leader in every department. Every purchase beautifully wrapped etc. I live in a small midwestern city and shopping has never been great but Saks and Nordstrom could usually be counted on. Less and less in store merchandise every time I visit each location. Our Nordstrom mainly has “comfort shoes” now. Lots of Uggs, Birkenstocks etc. So disappointing. Shop almost exclusively on line because of diminishing service and inventory, but I hate having to package everything up, print labels and go to a shipping location to return. It’s such a slog and hardly enjoyable anymore.
My friend and I complain about this all the time. I feel like the door is open for someone to take the lead in fashion with quality fabrics and workmanship again.