I totally agree with you! Prices are rising, but the clothing has decreased in quality. Consumers listen up…stop buying these items and spend your money on quality. If these retailers are not making money from selling junk, then maybe they will change their ways. Buy less and buy better like Marie Anne is always teaching us.
I agree! We should quit thinking about looking for great deals when we buy clothes. If they fall apart within a few wears, they are not great deals anymore! Don’t get me started about bragging about the percentage off (plus coupons-I’m talking to you, Macy’s and Kohl’s-nothing against them though) you bought a new outfit, shoes, bag, whatever. From now on, I will buy quality, and I don’t care what the price is as long as I know that the piece will last for many years.
I have noticed this alarming trend develop more and more as the years go by. Makes me want to learn to sew clothes myself. Beautiful fabrics can be found more easily and purchased economically than ready-made quality fashion items.
Go for it BeckyB....I certainly am....the hardest thing I found when I used to make clothes was buttonholes....but these days even the simplest sewing machines do that job ....start simple.....T shirts etc GOD bless Gilly wife of Mark
I hate to sound negative, but I used to sew and I’ve found the same thing happening to fabric, the quality is lower. After one or two washes, a garment looks like a rag. I hope you have better luck
I love your femme dans la rue snippets. Merci, Marie-Anne. Maybe manufacturers are trying to make up lost quarantine revenue by trying to sell cheap stuff at high prices. 🤷🏻♀️
My husband and I walked into Galleries Lafayette Paris in the Summer of 1979 and it was like walking into another world. They had the most beautiful and the best of everything. The glass dome ceiling was gorgeous. It was breathtaking
I agree completely. Walking around Melbourne everyone has descended into wearing puffer jackets with lycra leggings, because of this descent into mediocrity 'fashion' has become something that reflects cheap fads rather than a reflection of an awareness of quality and style. For those of us who have had an education in developing our personal style over years, I too was recently shocked by the quality in stores that I normally would find some pieces in, but now are selling clothes made in the cheapest quality fabrics. I think the population has been dumbed down to what quality is. I now get extreme pleasure in sourcing my own fabrics of beautiful quality and making my own "couture" clothes - I recently made myself a Donna Karan Vintage pattern 1989 suit and it is really beautiful - structured, cinched in at the waist and uber feminine - something you would never be able to buy. I can't stop myself now and I can thank the really low quality of clothing out there to buy and the high outrageous prices along with it for this blossoming of my own wardrobe that is getting more and more beautiful as I add to it. I am also knitting the most gorgeous creations - can't stop now - good luck Ladies - it's getting harder out there to find clothes that you want to have. X
isn't it though. Even the fabircs used by our once high end brands in Australia are not of the quality that they once were even the made in Australia brands..... no difference in pricing though
I totally agree. Cheap and NASTY. Same here, make my own clothes..made a good few during the pandemic...at least you know it's original and good quality..
I totally agree that quality has declined. Fast fashion is known to be poorer quality due to the manufacturers needs to keep labour and materials low cost but even fashion from the higher cost brands are now overpriced considering their quality. The comment below about buying second hand I agree with. I look out for older second hand clothes or even vintage to try to find better quality. I guess it’s the power of the consumer that will work eventually, just as you did by walking out of the store without a purchase!
For the last couple of years I have noticed a decline in quality clothing in the stores. The same styles are everywhere too. Since I now work from home, I donated much of my work clothing. I want to start a new casual capsule wardrobe. Please do a video on the top 5 websites that are good quality and available in the US, as well. I am planning my yearly trip to Paris. 😁
I have started sewing my own clothes and have had moments when I thought when spending too much money buying fabric for garments that don’t always turn out as I hoped that ready made clothes would be a cheaper and easier option only to be disappointed with the fit and quality of the fabric, reminding me why I started trying to sew my own clothes in the first place…
I have shopped in the Galleries Lafayette in Paris a couple of times - this was several years ago now . Certainly everything was very well presented at that time . In the last year or so I've noticed a downturn in quality locally also - wrinkled items on hangers as you mention , sloppy sewing on the finishes , buttons . Sometimes damaged clothing left on racks as if anyone would buy them . I've even gotten home with pants that had a seam open last year . Poor poor quality control . You really have to look over a garment well before purchasing . I love seeing the old castles about Europe - the Loire Valley area is truly magical .
I also shop pre-loved items, too. I found also few cute vintage pieces but with this trend it will be harder and harder to find these items. I want the master tailors to return in masses. ❤️
I must say that this is an ongoing trend I experienced in Eastern Europe, namely in Hungary for the past 2 decades as if all the lower quality stock was imported to us. I am very disappointed with many brands lately and lost confident in buying on higher price point as many items did not survive the test and were not a good investment. Eg a leather belt from Tom Tailor that broke in a year or the silk Hugo Boss blouse which creases so badly that it lost all it’s charms. I used to love these brands but think 5x before I purchase again. I love your reviews, learnt so much, thank you and please keep up with spreading your style messages ❤️ Lots of ❤️, Nelli
As a child growing up in Hungary all our clothes were made by a seamstress, tailor and shoes by a cobbler . A few years back my Father who loved fashion had a pair of beautiful shoes made for him in Budapest ❤
I live in the US. The quality of our clothing has been declining for years. Since retiring, I have been buying most of my casual clothing from L.L.Bean and Lands End on-line catalogues. The clothing is very well constructed and the materials are excellent(Peruvian and American cotton, etc). The style is classic American, very similar to Ralph Lauren. My Italian mother was a dressmaker, so I am very selective about what I buy. Thank you for your informative videos!
Agreed. I commented that the bigger brand names are really declining and it's the lesser known, traditional brands like LL Bean that are still decent quality. However, I purchased a jacket that had a plastic zipper rather than metal and that drives me crazy.
I agree about the low quality of new clothing in general whether it is at stores or online. I live in America. Maybe things are different with higher end clothing and designer labels. I do not buy those items since I am on a limited budget, so I cannot say. To me, the really good stuff I can afford seems to be in thrift stores and consignment shops. The other day, I got a beautiful white Nautica shirt and a lovely pair of linen pants at the Goodwill that were like new after failing to find items like them at retail stores. It seems, as well, that classic style is harder to find. Maybe you are right about the inflation issue. Sad...
Your assessment of the lesser quality items was worth hearing the wind! I just received my first black boatneck top from LilySilk this morning per your recommendation 💕 Such lovely fabric and beautiful packaging! Your eye for quality and style offers superb value! Merci! 🙏🏻
Irene, let me see if I can find it for you. I have recently joined this community and and watching both weekly as well as older video videos! Vast knowledge! I feel like a sponge 🧽 trying to soak it all up 😊
@@regags1920 Reply: Title on UA-cam is “THE BEST CLASSIC KNITTED SILK TEES AND HOW FRENCH WOMEN WEAR THEM” recorded on June 1, 2020. Marie is wearing the top I received today! Hope this helps!
I like the term "Qualflation". It's very common in the USA. I find a clothing brand that I like which is high quality. I buy happily from them for a few years and then quality drops alarmingly so I have to start all over again to find quality. This also happens to restaurants and other businesses. Americans are too focused on "deals" and will buy junk that falls apart after a few washes vs something that will last & look good. The pandemic also plays an extra part in this - now is not a great time to buy clothes unless you find one of the few brands that haven't diluted their quality.
I agree, Americans are all too fixated on "deals". They want high quality but do not want to pay for it. I think the pandemic has increased the availability of "junk" clothes here in the US. Perhaps that is why I am purchasing less.
"Qualflation" and "Shrinkflation"..haha, brilliant!! Very happy to see your smile and energy at the end of the video! You recouped the day with a lovely lunch /dining experience! 🥂❤
I've had this same frustrating experience in Australia for about the past 10 years. Very disappointing, especially for someone who knows what a quality garment is. Some brands that I liked years ago now look cheap and poorly constructed with ugly, scratchy cheap fabrics. It might be time to get the sewing machine out and make my own.
This is all too common now; I've noticed a few brands that used to be known for high quality have watered down their quality recently. I went shopping a few days ago and saw a fake leather bag for £80! I've paid less for beautiful, real (second hand) leather bags and I'd much rather do that.
@@jessieelliott3157 Yes, but some 'vegan' leather uses very expensive materials and are costly to produce. But I think I prefer to pay the price rather than animals doing it with their lives in a cruel industry. Also, if people do buy real leather, they should make sure that the animal comes from a fair and sustainable industry, and where and how it is sourced.
I went shopping two weeks ago, and noticed that they had less than 50% of the styles that you can buy from the same store online. I love online shopping, but this season I’ve returned most of the items because they did not fit, or because the quality was poor 😟
I’ve been saying this for over 5 years it is very difficult to find clothing. Attempting to replace worn out items is almost impossible. Most stores carry low inventory for in person shopping. This was before COVID. Trends have taken over and basics are nonexistent. If it is a basic some how it’s been turned trendy. Clothes for women have fallen into two categories: childlike or ready for the retirement home. Frustrating!
I’m finding it harder and harder to find shapes and necklines that suit my body type, and every year I hope it’ll improve. It’s been years since I saw a good scoop neck. My whole wardrobe is turning into an ‘it’ll do’ situation.
For over two decades I lived in Washington DC. Many brands I used to love at that time: Talbots, Ann Taylor , Ann Taylor Loft also started to decrease their quality even before covid started. I currently live in Mexico City but I spend Christmas 2019 in DC and bought several winter sweaters. The colors and the cut where beautiful but the material was unfortunately synthetic. After using them just a few times they started to look like rubbish. I don't know where to find good quality merino wool sweaters anymore. Sometimes I change the buttons of a dress or jacket to make them look nicer. Here in Mexico there are many " merccerias" stores where you can find a large variety of beautiful buttons made of metal, wood, or leather. I am returning to Washington in 6 weeks and your video gave me the idea to go looking for quality buttons before going back to D.C. I also discovered a little store where they can make buttons for you with your own piece of fabric. I grow up in Santiago de Chile and I remember in the past there where stores where they would pleat fabric for you so you could get a beautiful skirt with the fabric of your choice made. I love mother of pearl buttons, especially with earth tone linen fabrics. I notice that a lot of people don't pay attention to iron clothes anymore. I like my boys to always wear ironed t-shirts, even around the house. Fabric looks so much better that way.
I noticed the same thing last week when I was in Macy's department store here in the Houston Texas area. Macy's is a large American department store that usually carries good brands such as Jones of New york, Tommy hilfiger, Calvin Klein, etc. The clothes were wrinkled they were not picked up off the floor and put back in the proper places and everything seemed to be in disarray. Very disappointing.
Here in the USA there is a worker shortage in restaurants because of covid Restaurants were shut down for so long the employees had to find new jobs and they aren’t returning to their old pre pandemic jobs
We have been out to eat late afternoon /evening (first day our restaurants are open in Saxony Germany) quality service excellent. However, our daughter and family live in England and say many restaurants are closed not due to Covid 19 but Brexit because the people have gone back to the EU. I have found clothes from some of my favourite brands have gone down in quality -silk from China in particular I received a blouse (I already have the blue which I love and fits perfectly) in a cream was on the shoulder right side 4 cm smaller than the left and a night dress so badly stitched I sent them both back. I hope things improve
I love these vlogs where you show us around and chat. Some days ago Euronews was reporting the inauguration of the new D Day memorial in Normandy, I wondered if you would visit there since you live in the area. It's a shame if brands are lowering their quality standards, it would be much better if they lowered the number of pieces in their collections instead and maintained the high quality.
Usually I buy my clothes in the Marc O'Polo shop. It's good quality. Even this spring their collection was of excellent quality again. Only less new items, even partly the wintercollection, not priced down. That's a much better way for a quality brand to survive the covid lockdowns. I am very happy with my new clothes.
Thank you Marie -Anne .... Quality is a lost art unless you are a multi millionare.... we deserve quality ... I hope your message is the beginning of a serious change !!! Quality should be available to us all .... you are the BEST .... keep calling as you see it !!!!
Welcome to American brands, that’s the kind of thing we’re expected to put up with. One dress I bought literally looked like they cleaned the factory floor with it! On another topic, I love it when you show us the beautiful French countryside and historical architecture.
That cathedral was amazing. I rarely go inside a shop these days, I look up what beand I'm after, order it, and if it's not the quality I expect, i send it back. The shops drive me nuts lol. I recently purchasrd a Vivian Westwood handbag from the online site and I adore
@@MarieAnneLecoeur Absolutely. The trouble is most Western countries no longer have their own clothing manufacturers everything now days comes from Asian countries who are paid very little. I can go into David Jones here in Australia and the ( AUD ) $2000 Camilla is made overseas probably in the same sweat shop my $3 tee shirt is made in. Last time I was in Paris ( early 80''s ) things i purchased were made there. It was the same here, we had a brilliant clothing industry and I still have clothing from the 70's and some of my mother's from even earlier. Clothing now is made to last two or 3 seasons......if you're lucky !
You make a substantive observation Marie-Anne, clothing prices are up and quality is down, you really have to check the finishings before you buy anything now. But I enjoyed your tour of Caen. My Uncle was part of the Canadian Forces who fought in the Battle for Caen and I visited Caen during my first research trip as a graduate student. I appreciate that you showed a picture of the organ at St. Peter's Church - you may recall that I am an organist and I also play at a St. Peter's. I love Normandy as, historically, my family came from Le Havre and sailed from there to New France and were part of the troops at Fortress Louisbourg. Excuse the historical discussion but I really enjoyed the memories of Caen. Merci!!
Salut Marie-Anne, yes I agree with you. Something changed with quality since a few years. More and more designers put polyester in their clothes. Shirts, completely made of synthetics, and very expensive. Is this an easy way to make money? I don't know. 🤔
@@MarieAnneLecoeur Bonjour, you are right. Labels and designer use for example Polyester because it is cheap. That's why I sometimes buy at eco labels. They developped so much and the quality is very good. I do not buy evetything eco, I am honest, but more than in the past. Have a nice day and thank you for answering ❣
Hi Marie-Anne. Yes It was great to see a little of Caen. How disappointing your shopping trip was. I haven’t been shopping much for clothes to be honest. What I have noticed is lack of supply. We are experiencing difficulties with stock shortages here, understandably, due to Covid.
Agree! I tried to find just a good pair of black pants and couldn’t find a pair that didn’t have elastic in the back. I guess that’s one way the manufacturers can ensure they fit a lot of folks … but not for me!
What a dreadful experience😢 I’ve noticed this as well-plastic zippers and buttons coated to appear as metal. Lack of quality. Disgraceful. I haven’t bought many clothes ‘new’ since 2018(?) or thereabouts. My favorite store closed and u can’t find quality and value. So I buy used..yes, used. ThredUp has lovely things and nothing has ever ‘looked’ worn at all-most of my clothes look more worn😂. It’s troubling that the world is on a ‘green’ kick and prices are skyrocketing to ‘save the environment’ yet cheap, fast fashion is using tons of plastic.
Beautiful town, lovely restaurant. Tommy Hilfiger (and others) must up the game! Probably the older clothes from thrift shops are better than the new stuff...or sewing one's own if one can.
Tommy Hilfiger here in the US, isn't high quality normally. And yes I've noticed lower quality items for a few years now, as well as fabric store fabrics being low quality for over ten years. It's a very real problem. I sew, and know the difference. US customers want sales and cheap prices, it's very sad.
I noticed so many stores do not steam the garments before they put them out!! Long ago when I worked in Retail, this was definitely the rule! Quality, too, is lacking these days!! Thank you for taking us along with you today! ❤️
Madame Lecoeur, once I saw the inside of the Cathedral I could have cared less about shopping. You could do travel vlogs!! Back to shopping...right now I'm shopping my closet. I have put one pair of navy bermuda shorts and 2-3 quality summers tops in my style journal. Madam Lecoeur, you have taught me to hold out for quality not quantity. Merci!
I thought it was my imagination but its actually true, clothes have gone down in quality in the shops. I would understand if I was in Primark, but Tommy Hilfiger? And on top of that its 450 euros. Like many of the previous comments I find that I get better quality items secondhand and I pay a fraction of the price. Gone are the days I used to enter a shop and actually buy things from there. Thankyou for this informative vlog x
Bonjour, this was interesting, thank you for sharing your thoughts! I haven't been to Galleries Lafayette for many years because I was never a great fan but I do remember the quality was good. Sadly, it's a general trend. Marks and Spencer used to offer great quality value (I still have many of their all time classic clothes in excellent condition even after decades and a lot of wear) but a few years ago M&S's quality started to disappear so much it was shocking. Knitwear that bobble after the first wear, linen trousers that wear out in a couple of months... I compare the new items with what my husband and I have in our wardrobes... you just can't find the same yarn/material quality any more in those stores. The M&S woollen knitwear in the 90s was almost as good as St James, we've proof of this in our wardrobes after comparing them :) they are all still in amazing condition. Youare so right, Marie-Anne, most stores do not care about quality any more, only about profit. It's all for FAST FASHION.
That’s how I feel when I go shopping. The clothes are either too young or poorly made. I like Ann Taylor and I like Talbots. That’s about the only two that are really nice. They are clothing is well-made and last a long time
Love your videos and especially your honesty. Your new vocabulary for shrinking sizes and quality were right on! I’ve shared with you in the past about salvaging designer buttons-the older the better quality. Hope your delicious lunch made up for the poor shopping.
I had similar experience. I needed a new pair of jeans to replace the old one that I have had for over 4 years so I go back to the same store that I bought it. I found the same style jeans but the quality was different. It was thinner. I ended up trying so many jeans in the changing room and was not satisfied because they were all kinda thin not the usual good weight to the denim. Same thing happened with bags. I have been searching for a good real leather bag since last year to replace my worn out one. It was very disappointing to see brands, even the expensive brands using fake leather but still the prices are high. And the finishing on the clothes I agree with you. I ordered a summer dress, got it home and it was not lined. The fabric was so thin too you could see my underwear. I returned it the very next day.
Marie Anne you are absolutely right! I have noticed it as well. I am even more attatched to my old high quality pieces now. I am learning to sew and have already accomplished to make good quality bags with high quality fabrics and buttons. I also find harder to dress my boy. He is 8 and so many kidsbrands have left Italy since the pandemic started! Exemples: z-generation and camaieu
I agree wholeheartedly Marie-Anne about the decline in quality. I have kept many items from decades ago simply because the quality is unbelievably good compared to nowadays. Thank goodness vintage is in fashion! One modern UK brand I would recommend is Poetry. I recently bought a knitted cotton cardigan jacket in a biker style (but minus the zips.) Whoever designed this deserves a medal. It is superb. It looks chic and is so warm and cosy. It was £119 and I thought long and hard before I bought it, but I absolutely love the quality and the style. Good quality clothes give you so much more than cost per wear justifications. They can make you feel wonderful and that is priceless.
I have found this to be true for years now. The same with shoes. You can't trust a more expensive brand to be higher quality. It's very frustrating because it would be nice to purchase a few more expensive items, knowing that it would be an investment.
Exactly. I always bought silk shirts and I do have quite a few as warm in winter and cool in summer and they were always french seamed. No longer french seamed and at the same price...The fashion world is changing and probably not the only section of manufacturing.
I agree completely. I'm so disappointed at the stitching, finishing, buttons. Right now I'm looking in thrift stores (les brocantes) for vintage pieces that I can modify with my sewing machine. And yes! No one is bothering to iron anything - wrinkles abound. Very sad state of affairs. But your videos encourage me to uphold my standards. I will double down on my discerning ways. Thank you Marie-Anne for your candor.
Yes, the view you showed us of the chateau(?) and church is magnificent. I agree, shopping can be disappointing and quality is lacking in several stores at present! We shall continue to shop and look for those WOW items and pass by the rest. I do that now when I shop! I ask myself "Is this a WOW?" That helps me decide to buy or pass by items.
Marie-Anne thank you so much. I thought, I am the only one who denies buying in the city. And that started long before Covid came in place. I shop at least one third second hand and founded dream clothes in top quality. I saved so much, that I could afford my long wanted coat from Max Mara online (worldwide). The new collection is out now, and I ordered a very expensive coat, that my sister has for 15 years. And, as an exception, the quality is amazing, like before. Due to coming inflation, things will be much more expensive in the future. For shoes I found a superb quality brand in the UK, Fairfax & Favor. Problem is now the Brexit, I don’t want to pay customs. I live in Germany, and most of the people don’t even recognize good style and quality. That explains the overwhelming amount of cheap clothes in the shops here.
It's sad when quality goes down. I would rather pay more and get the quality I expect from a brand. I haven't shopped in quite a while, but it must be the same here. I can't believe they didn't even steam the clothes before hanging them. Shameful xo~linda
Marie-Anne, I totally agree with you about the poor quality in clothing now. I'm sorry that I took for granted the good stores with fine quality clothes we used to frequent, and am nearly sick that I have given away most of my fine things. I always took it for granted that I could replace those things, but now I cannot for any amount of money, certainly in my city. I will not order online because you don't know what you're getting. I never hear you talk about upscale thrift shops, but honestly, I can occasionally get nice, well made clothing there. I hate to think this is one of my last options. But you may decide in the future to do a show on thrift shops. Meanwhile, there are still a couple of stores in my area that sell pretty good things, but many of the styles are either boring or outlandish. Thank you, thank you for stepping up and sharing your unfortunate shopping experience. Your honesty is refreshing, and it makes us feel validated in our frustrations!
You saved yourself from spending for inferior products. I always check the fabric and cleaning instructions on the inside of garments before I buy them.
I agree. My last shopping expedition to the city centre was very unsuccessful due to poor quality and presentation - I’ve never seen so many creased garments!! Luckily I live near some small towns with excellent independent boutiques - success😁
Bonjour Marie Anne you are totally correct when you say low quality it’s everywhere name brands sell their name to the highest bidder they in-turn start cutting corners with cheaper fabrics buttons lesser skilled manufacturers and in store no one wants to work here in Hawaii people have not been working for a year and collecting unemployment checks with a bonus of 300 dollars no one wants to work because they get more money staying home there is a shortage of people willing to work and on top of that younger people go to work for a day and never come back so bottom line it’s like that everywhere
As a teenager (50years ago) m Mother taught me how to make clothes and I used to make my own trousers and blouses so I always wore things nobody else had ...sewing them by hand !!! Fabric became more expensive and ready made clothes much cheaper ...the quality was much better then so I stopped doing it. Now ,as you say Marie-Anne ,the clothes are very pricey and the quality not as good so I have dusted off my sewing machine ........I feel some navy and white striped T shirt fabric is going on my list along with some white strong cotton for a skirt...I wonder where I got that idea from ?lol ! GOD bless Marie-Anne and French chic ladies Gilly wife of Mark
@@MarieAnneLecoeur When I get to it...I shall attempt to figure out how to send the pics. I visited Caen many years ago as a tribute to my Father...sadly he passed the year before...he was part of the first wave of soldiers in during the war to take Pegasus bridge then moved inland .......there is a very sweet and lovely little cafe there .I hope the two dear ladies who were running the cafe in 2002 are still there. GOD bless and thank you for your reply. Gilly wife of Mark
I have also found that there is a lack-lustre, down-at-the-heel, reduced quality in some shops here in rural Victoria, Australia, too Marie-Anne. I do not accept that staff in stores should use COVID as an excuse for not trying to present clothing better. Yes, un-ironed clothes I have seen on racks in a popular department store here. Although staffing may be an issue in some places, for e.g. in Melbourne due to lockdown, this should not prevent people from keeping quality and appeal of their items to a standard. The huge increase in online shopping by necessity has likely had an impact, however, many of us would rather visit shops to see and experience what our stores have to offer first-hand. I agree, it is disappointing.
I agree on the lack of quality in many of the designers. I grew up with two Italian aunts that were seamstresses in the old fashioned way. I love French style the most, but kudos to Tod’s, Missoni and Bottega Veneta. Those are my favs from the Italians. Beautiful church!
Totally agree with you, Marie-Anne. One of my biggest complaints is the poor quality of zips on mid/high priced handbags. It totally ruins the look and you just know the zip will wear out long before the bag. I know zips can be replaced but that's not the point - make it properly first time and take pride in the work or don't bother! Ok, putting away my soapbox now. :)) Love your channel, Marie-Anne, and merci beaucoup for all the tips you share. Au revoir.
Hi Marie-Anne. Here in Texas my shopping experience has be disappointing also. It’s hard to find good quality items in the malls. I go to second hand shops. Finding well made items for less. I’m glad you had a wonderful lunch. You liked happy about your lunch. Love you
Hello! I totally agree with you! I am also very disappointed by the very poor quality of clothes and other things in stores, both in my country and abroad.The big fashion brands should be ashamed because they produce poor quality things that they sell at exorbitant prices. There is simply no respect for anything...so sad...
I sew and sell online (not clothing) and I too have noticed since Covid that the quality of fabrics has significantly deceased. My understanding is that the fabric mills were having difficulty in keeping up with demand. Love your videos.
Bonjour Marie-Anne, I really agree. Very frustrating. Everything has to be fast these days. I remember my morher saying, buy clothes which will last for ever. You have to search for a good deux piece, a skirt that is lined inside, a blazer that is also lined inside and the material of good natural products such as wool, silk, lining etc. I have no problem paying a little more for good quality, does not have to be a brand, as you say a lot of brands even rip you off these days. It's all about profit, bigger, better, faster, more. 🤑
I noticed the shops here in the UK are shabby at the moment I think covid has stopped the shops stocking up properly and they are holding old stock. I have stopped shopping online too I always send them back its a waste of my time
The wind? Actually it reminds me of one of my favorite videos you have that I've watched more than once ... walking on the beach talking about the French lifestyle and mindset.
As a British History professor I was so excited to see William the Conqueror's castle. I'll have to visit it. Thank you for showing it! Hilfiger has always been poor quality in my opinion. It is a brand name that people buy just to have that label. But outside the shopping malls, there are many smaller shops and local industries that are now making sustainable garments in European factories that control the conditions and salaries of their workers (this is E.U laws) and use recyclable or natural materials. I have seen beautiful items produced locally that are lovely quality here in Spain. So, now I seek these out online. I haven't been to a mall for nearly 2 years now, and they won't be getting my custom anytime soon. xxxx
Marie Anne, there is a brand in Copehegen called Rosemunde where I did online purchases in their site a few times already. They have lovely silk+cotton tops. The fabric is nice, simple design but with laces around neck or around the cuffs and they have a pretty good length like 68cm. They also carry cashmere cardigans and wool cardigans. They have worldwide delivery. I live in the U.S., the shipping is pretty fast, usually it takes like a week to get delivered.
The "covid excuse". Whether true or an excuse to cut corners, I hope we all get back to normal soon. It was still enjoyable watching your vlog and escaping to Europe for a few minutes, lol! I am glad you are not wearing a mask!
I agree with everything you say Marie-Anne! Fortunately, I have found an amazing family shop that stocks a range of well made, beautiful clothes- that they select very carefully-if you visit the shop the staff are knowledgeable and helpful without being "pushy" and their on-line is good too. It's not cheap but everything I have bought from there has lasted me years. It's a bit like "old fashioned" service for up to date clothes, It's called Angela Beer's in Bramhall in England.
I too noticed much less selection at Nordstrom in Dallas and what there was tended toward lower cost/quality items. But there were quite a few shoppers so let us hope as the economy reestablishes itself the quality and selection will return. I DID find a pair of wonderful, comfortable red shoes so I feel those alone will help me feel chic.
I shop Nordstrom online because I have found that when I go into the store the items are not there. They have to be ordered. They offer free ship and free return so I shop on line. I am still looking for a full length slip and wish I knew where one could be purchased.
I'm guessing you're about my age. Did you have a time in France when the little children were up in arms over the shrinking chocolate bars? I remember we were all very vocal about it in the candy store.
Hello Marie, I sooooo agree with you . It’s appalling to see items at high price and low quality in manufacturing. I sure hope the wine and cheese in France never comes down to that ! Marie I think your lovely and you can make a potato sack look classy . Love from sunny Florida…. ☀️☀️☀️❤️❤️❤️
I have noticed the same. I grew up with two aunts that were seamstresses in the old fashioned way. They were Italian, although i might give more kudos to the French for style. With that said, thank goodness for Tod’s, Missoni and Bottega Veneta.
Like many commenters, I agree and have noticed particularly since covid the quality has fallen alarmingly. Not just in finishes, but the fabrics, so much polyester and man made synthetic fibres. Don’t get me started on presentation, I wonder if retailers remember how to spell iron! I’m happy I’ve learnt how to sew with covid, now I’m slowly making my own clothes, not only can I chose the fabrics, colours and styles I actually like, but can tailor to my shape!
Agreed Marie-Anne, especially about handbags. So called designers (MK comes to mind) churn out plastic handbags with astronomical price tags. I'd rather have 2nd hand leather from a charity shop. Lovely to see the château & église at Caen, I miss France soooo much. Bon weekend.
Spot on, Marie-Anne, quality has to be the deciding factor- very much like food. In USA, GMOs allowed in food unlike in FR. Shoes & bags hard hit as you describe. Recently bought a name brand & the sole peeled off after 2 wearings! Regluing it myself w type of waterproof Gorilla brand glue as no shoe repair close by. Shopping now very rarely productive.
I agree as I have found the quality here in sth Australia has gone down too.. jumpers that look gorgeous at a distance with high price tags are just acrylic and don't last.. I bought an expensive pair of trousers 2 weeks ago and 3 wears on have stretched 2 sizes. Very disappointed as now I have to throw out..nothing is how it was .. so am making do with my old faithful..x o
YES!!! It's not just me, then. Or the USA then. I'm constantly commenting on this to my husband. I think the "brand" names are cutting corner. I think that the lesser known brands, maybe the smaller, more boutique companies are better value right now. I feel the same way about service and quality of food at restaurants, service at stores, just about everything in our "post-covid" (are we really post-covid??) world. If the brand name/designer labels are about the same quality or slightly only better than the "fast fashion" labels, then what's the point in paying more?!? I'm not sure some of these brands are going to make it after cutting corners so much. Thanks for showing us the lovely scenery!
I visited France in 2017 and spent time in Montauban, where I visited the Galleries Lafayette there. Hard to believe the difference between then and now.....
@@MarieAnneLecoeur Yes, no doubt Marie-Anne. It is as if there is a whole galaxy that spans that time gap in so many ways, no? The world is changing in ways we do not even comprehend yet..... On a different note, loved your photos of Caen, and the info about William the Conquerer. My favorite when I visited was Najac, and the Fortress that Richard the Lion Heart built. No doubt he did not even speak English, though a British King. Also loved Cahors...
Beautiful view and beautiful cathedral! I just had a disappointment with a brand which I consider quite good in the U.S., I bought a ponte knit pant and I found out it came with a bad and broken side zipper. I have to return it, sadly. Over the past few years, I have had the same feeling that many brands can no longer hold up to their quality in the past. It is like it is better to buy one or two more extra the same items you like, otherwise, when you wear them out, you can hardly find the similar one to replace them of the same brand. I am over 40, I cannot wear something like a cropped top with ripped jeans. I need clothes that have some decent body length, fabrics that make me feel comfy, and high-rise pants that make me feel good.
Marie-Anne, thank you for that little walking tour, I felt like a tourist while watching you. I could not agree more about the deterioration of the clothing industry. € 400 ($600 in Canada) this would be an expensive coat and for that kind of money, the buttons should be metal. So much of our clothing is made in China and other emerging countries so that the retailers can make more profits because of cheap labour. It seems like you would have to 2 infront of that €400, and buy that coat from Balmain to get proper hardware and a well finished item.I wish I could afford to do that.🙏
Hi Marie Anne thanks again for this fantastic video so so true . Yes here in Mauritius I have this huge problem the cheap shops are everywhere and the so called good quantity shop are expensive for the general shoppers and quality are going down too . Proper leather hand bags are just out of price here compared to the salary in general . I haven’t bought one for a long time waiting to see a real one first so many copies of faux leather . I hear myself saying all your comments and sometimes I am been called too fussy 😅. Your video keeps me connected with Europe which I desperately miss . Thanks take care 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
I used to be a seamstress and yes I see mistakes I would have gotten in big trouble for making! Stripes and patterns that don’t match up along the seams. Simple things involving cuts that throw off the whole center of a pair of jeans/pants. The quality of jean materials is just awful. I get strange puckering after a few wears. And if I had a dollar for every zipper that’s gone bad the last few years, even on a CK coat?! I’ve had the zipper replaced and it too went bad. I completely agree with you on all points!
Speaking of zippers, I had a pretty black floral LOFT dress that I wore many times until I tried it on after a year of not wearing it, and the zipper was stuck. It became tight on top(I think my rib cage expanded), so I tried taking it off. The zipper was stuck, no matter what I did. We finally cut the dress out of frustration; otherwise, I could hardly breathe. I was sad because I liked the dress a lot. I missed it so much that I found the exact same one (went up one size) on Poshmark. As soon as I tried it on, guess what? The zipper was stuck again. I managed to take it off. I tried to put the pull back on, and the pull snapped in two! What a pity because the dress is beautiful-I just could wear it for so many times. That explains the quality of even the prettiest clothes. 😢
Thank you for sharing your shopping experience with us, unfortunately quality in garments has declined over the years, and it's sad to see. I now shop second hand, and I also purchase my clothing from small designers as well. great topic!
The more rural one goes, the less success one has. I am continually impressed by your style videos, and just purchased a pair of pearl stud earrings. Keep up the good work! 🥰
I totally agree with you! Prices are rising, but the clothing has decreased in quality. Consumers listen up…stop buying these items and spend your money on quality. If these retailers are not making money from selling junk, then maybe they will change their ways. Buy less and buy better like Marie Anne is always teaching us.
I agree! We should quit thinking about looking for great deals when we buy clothes. If they fall apart within a few wears, they are not great deals anymore! Don’t get me started about bragging about the percentage off (plus coupons-I’m talking to you, Macy’s and Kohl’s-nothing against them though) you bought a new outfit, shoes, bag, whatever. From now on, I will buy quality, and I don’t care what the price is as long as I know that the piece will last for many years.
I have noticed this alarming trend develop more and more as the years go by. Makes me want to learn to sew clothes myself. Beautiful fabrics can be found more easily and purchased economically than ready-made quality fashion items.
Go for it BeckyB....I certainly am....the hardest thing I found when I used to make clothes was buttonholes....but these days even the simplest sewing machines do that job ....start simple.....T shirts etc
GOD bless
Gilly wife of Mark
I hate to sound negative, but I used to sew and I’ve found the same thing happening to fabric, the quality is lower. After one or two washes, a garment looks like a rag. I hope you have better luck
I love your femme dans la rue snippets. Merci, Marie-Anne. Maybe manufacturers are trying to make up lost quarantine revenue by trying to sell cheap stuff at high prices. 🤷🏻♀️
@@jackiec9285 , yes, me too. And my MIL is an excellent seamstress and she's commented that sometimes it doesn't even seem to be worth it anymore.
Ive started to knit my own sweaters, believe it or not. I made a beautiful cable knit one with metalic buttons.
My husband and I walked into Galleries Lafayette Paris in the Summer of 1979 and it was like walking into another world. They had the most beautiful and the best of everything. The glass dome ceiling was gorgeous. It was breathtaking
I agree completely. Walking around Melbourne everyone has descended into wearing puffer jackets with lycra leggings, because of this descent into mediocrity 'fashion' has become something that reflects cheap fads rather than a reflection of an awareness of quality and style. For those of us who have had an education in developing our personal style over years, I too was recently shocked by the quality in stores that I normally would find some pieces in, but now are selling clothes made in the cheapest quality fabrics. I think the population has been dumbed down to what quality is. I now get extreme pleasure in sourcing my own fabrics of beautiful quality and making my own "couture" clothes - I recently made myself a Donna Karan Vintage pattern 1989 suit and it is really beautiful - structured, cinched in at the waist and uber feminine - something you would never be able to buy. I can't stop myself now and I can thank the really low quality of clothing out there to buy and the high outrageous prices along with it for this blossoming of my own wardrobe that is getting more and more beautiful as I add to it. I am also knitting the most gorgeous creations - can't stop now - good luck Ladies - it's getting harder out there to find clothes that you want to have. X
isn't it though. Even the fabircs used by our once high end brands in Australia are not of the quality that they once were even the made in Australia brands..... no difference in pricing though
You must be very talented! Good for you! I wish I could see your pieces… are you on Instagram?
I totally agree. Cheap and NASTY. Same here, make my own clothes..made a good few during the pandemic...at least you know it's original and good quality..
I totally agree that quality has declined. Fast fashion is known to be poorer quality due to the manufacturers needs to keep labour and materials low cost but even fashion from the higher cost brands are now overpriced considering their quality. The comment below about buying second hand I agree with. I look out for older second hand clothes or even vintage to try to find better quality. I guess it’s the power of the consumer that will work eventually, just as you did by walking out of the store without a purchase!
I once found vintage silk blouses for not much money.
It is possible.
For the last couple of years I have noticed a decline in quality clothing in the stores. The same styles are everywhere too. Since I now work from home, I donated much of my work clothing. I want to start a new casual capsule wardrobe. Please do a video on the top 5 websites that are good quality and available in the US, as well. I am planning my yearly trip to Paris. 😁
I have started sewing my own clothes and have had moments when I thought when spending too much money buying fabric for garments that don’t always turn out as I hoped that ready made clothes would be a cheaper and easier option only to be disappointed with the fit and quality of the fabric, reminding me why I started trying to sew my own clothes in the first place…
I have shopped in the Galleries Lafayette in Paris a couple of times - this was several years ago now . Certainly everything was very well presented at that time . In the last year or so I've noticed a downturn in quality locally also - wrinkled items on hangers as you mention , sloppy sewing on the finishes , buttons . Sometimes damaged clothing left on racks as if anyone would buy them . I've even gotten home with pants that had a seam open last year . Poor poor quality control . You really have to look over a garment well before purchasing . I love seeing the old castles about Europe - the Loire Valley area is truly magical .
Yes, 20 years ago G L..was good...but not anymore.
This is why I mainly shop second hand. Most clothes are so poorly made these days. Thanks for the tour!
I also shop pre-loved items, too. I found also few cute vintage pieces but with this trend it will be harder and harder to find these items. I want the master tailors to return in masses. ❤️
@@nhunor76 I have always shopped pre-loved. Unfortunately, the majority of clothing available in thrift stores today are from Fast Fashion brands.
I must say that this is an ongoing trend I experienced in Eastern Europe, namely in Hungary for the past 2 decades as if all the lower quality stock was imported to us. I am very disappointed with many brands lately and lost confident in buying on higher price point as many items did not survive the test and were not a good investment. Eg a leather belt from Tom Tailor that broke in a year or the silk Hugo Boss blouse which creases so badly that it lost all it’s charms. I used to love these brands but think 5x before I purchase again. I love your reviews, learnt so much, thank you and please keep up with spreading your style messages ❤️ Lots of ❤️, Nelli
As a child growing up in Hungary all our clothes were made by a seamstress, tailor and shoes by a cobbler . A few years back my Father who loved fashion had a pair of beautiful shoes made for him in Budapest ❤
I live in the US. The quality of our clothing has been declining for years. Since retiring, I have been buying most of my casual clothing from L.L.Bean and Lands End on-line catalogues. The clothing is very well constructed and the materials are excellent(Peruvian and American cotton, etc). The style is classic American, very similar to Ralph Lauren. My Italian mother was a dressmaker, so I am very selective about what I buy. Thank you for your informative videos!
Agreed. I commented that the bigger brand names are really declining and it's the lesser known, traditional brands like LL Bean that are still decent quality. However, I purchased a jacket that had a plastic zipper rather than metal and that drives me crazy.
@@KarenDGobsmacked I also think LL Bean is a pretty decent quality brand. I own a couple of down vests from LL Bean.
I agree about the low quality of new clothing in general whether it is at stores or online. I live in America. Maybe things are different with higher end clothing and designer labels. I do not buy those items since I am on a limited budget, so I cannot say. To me, the really good stuff I can afford seems to be in thrift stores and consignment shops. The other day, I got a beautiful white Nautica shirt and a lovely pair of linen pants at the Goodwill that were like new after failing to find items like them at retail stores. It seems, as well, that classic style is harder to find. Maybe you are right about the inflation issue. Sad...
Your assessment of the lesser quality items was worth hearing the wind! I just received my first black boatneck top from LilySilk this morning per your recommendation 💕 Such lovely fabric and beautiful packaging! Your eye for quality and style offers superb value! Merci! 🙏🏻
Can you reference the video for this top? I haven’t seen it and would love to, thank you!
Irene, let me see if I can find it for you. I have recently joined this community and and watching both weekly as well as older video videos! Vast knowledge! I feel like a sponge 🧽 trying to soak it all up 😊
@@regags1920 Reply: Title on UA-cam is “THE BEST CLASSIC KNITTED SILK TEES AND HOW FRENCH WOMEN WEAR THEM” recorded on June 1, 2020. Marie is wearing the top I received today! Hope this helps!
I like the term "Qualflation". It's very common in the USA. I find a clothing brand that I like which is high quality. I buy happily from them for a few years and then quality drops alarmingly so I have to start all over again to find quality. This also happens to restaurants and other businesses. Americans are too focused on "deals" and will buy junk that falls apart after a few washes vs something that will last & look good. The pandemic also plays an extra part in this - now is not a great time to buy clothes unless you find one of the few brands that haven't diluted their quality.
I agree, Americans are all too fixated on "deals". They want high quality but do not want to pay for it. I think the pandemic has increased the availability of "junk" clothes here in the US. Perhaps that is why I am purchasing less.
"Qualflation" and "Shrinkflation"..haha, brilliant!!
Very happy to see your smile and energy at the end of the video! You recouped the day with a lovely lunch /dining experience! 🥂❤
I've had this same frustrating experience in Australia for about the past 10 years. Very disappointing, especially for someone who knows what a quality garment is. Some brands that I liked years ago now look cheap and poorly constructed with ugly, scratchy cheap fabrics. It might be time to get the sewing machine out and make my own.
This is all too common now; I've noticed a few brands that used to be known for high quality have watered down their quality recently. I went shopping a few days ago and saw a fake leather bag for £80! I've paid less for beautiful, real (second hand) leather bags and I'd much rather do that.
Slap the words vegan leather on the tag and then upping the price seems to be what is happening in some instances.
@@jessieelliott3157 Yes, but some 'vegan' leather uses very expensive materials and are costly to produce. But I think I prefer to pay the price rather than animals doing it with their lives in a cruel industry. Also, if people do buy real leather, they should make sure that the animal comes from a fair and sustainable industry, and where and how it is sourced.
I went shopping two weeks ago, and noticed that they had less than 50% of the styles that you can buy from the same store online. I love online shopping, but this season I’ve returned most of the items because they did not fit, or because the quality was poor 😟
I’ve been saying this for over 5 years it is very difficult to find clothing. Attempting to replace worn out items is almost impossible. Most stores carry low inventory for in person shopping. This was before COVID. Trends have taken over and basics are nonexistent. If it is a basic some how it’s been turned trendy. Clothes for women have fallen into two categories: childlike or ready for the retirement home. Frustrating!
I’m finding it harder and harder to find shapes and necklines that suit my body type, and every year I hope it’ll improve. It’s been years since I saw a good scoop neck. My whole wardrobe is turning into an ‘it’ll do’ situation.
I am saying this for the last 30 years!
For over two decades I lived in Washington DC. Many brands I used to love at that time: Talbots, Ann Taylor , Ann Taylor Loft also started to decrease their quality even before covid started. I currently live in Mexico City but I spend Christmas 2019 in DC and bought several winter sweaters. The colors and the cut where beautiful but the material was unfortunately synthetic. After using them just a few times they started to look like rubbish. I don't know where to find good quality merino wool sweaters anymore.
Sometimes I change the buttons of a dress or jacket to make them look nicer. Here in Mexico there are many " merccerias" stores where you can find a large variety of beautiful buttons made of metal, wood, or leather. I am returning to Washington in 6 weeks and your video gave me the idea to go looking for quality buttons before going back to D.C. I also discovered a little store where they can make buttons for you with your own piece of fabric. I grow up in Santiago de Chile and I remember in the past there where stores where they would pleat fabric for you so you could get a beautiful skirt with the fabric of your choice made. I love mother of pearl buttons, especially with earth tone linen fabrics. I notice that a lot of people don't pay attention to iron clothes anymore. I like my boys to always wear ironed t-shirts, even around the house. Fabric looks so much better that way.
I noticed the same thing last week when I was in Macy's department store here in the Houston Texas area. Macy's is a large American department store that usually carries good brands such as Jones of New york, Tommy hilfiger, Calvin Klein, etc. The clothes were wrinkled they were not picked up off the floor and put back in the proper places and everything seemed to be in disarray. Very disappointing.
I saw that at Macy's too I think that the problem is that they are trying to get by with too little staff. Help wanted signs everywhere.
The Macy's here in Corpus Christi, TX is awful. It looks worse than a bargain basement, more like a dump. Heartbreaking.
Here in the USA there is a worker shortage in restaurants because of covid
Restaurants were shut down for so long the employees had to find new jobs and they aren’t returning to their old pre pandemic jobs
We have been out to eat late afternoon /evening (first day our restaurants are open in Saxony Germany) quality service excellent. However, our daughter and family live in England and say many restaurants are closed not due to Covid 19 but Brexit because the people have gone back to the EU. I have found clothes from some of my favourite brands have gone down in quality -silk from China in particular I received a blouse (I already have the blue which I love and fits perfectly) in a cream was on the shoulder right side 4 cm smaller than the left and a night dress so badly stitched I sent them both back. I hope things improve
I love these vlogs where you show us around and chat. Some days ago Euronews was reporting the inauguration of the new D Day memorial in Normandy, I wondered if you would visit there since you live in the area.
It's a shame if brands are lowering their quality standards, it would be much better if they lowered the number of pieces in their collections instead and maintained the high quality.
I thought about Marie-Anne on D Day as well. I wondered if they still find unexploded bombs in her area.
I thought it was happening only in America, welcome to the club of disappointed shoppers, French ladies!
The Chineese stuff invadat the whole world!
Usually I buy my clothes in the Marc O'Polo shop. It's good quality. Even this spring their collection was of excellent quality again. Only less new items, even partly the wintercollection, not priced down. That's a much better way for a quality brand to survive the covid lockdowns. I am very happy with my new clothes.
Thank you Marie -Anne .... Quality is a lost art unless you are a multi millionare.... we deserve quality ... I hope your message is the beginning of a serious change !!!
Quality should be available to us all .... you are the BEST .... keep calling as you see it !!!!
Welcome to American brands, that’s the kind of thing we’re expected to put up with. One dress I bought literally looked like they cleaned the factory floor with it! On another topic, I love it when you show us the beautiful French countryside and historical architecture.
That cathedral was amazing.
I rarely go inside a shop these days, I look up what beand I'm after, order it, and if it's not the quality I expect, i send it back. The shops drive me nuts lol. I recently purchasrd a Vivian Westwood handbag from the online site and I adore
@@MarieAnneLecoeur Absolutely. The trouble is most Western countries no longer have their own clothing manufacturers everything now days comes from Asian countries who are paid very little. I can go into David Jones here in Australia and the ( AUD ) $2000 Camilla is made overseas probably in the same sweat shop my $3 tee shirt is made in. Last time I was in Paris ( early 80''s ) things i purchased were made there. It was the same here, we had a brilliant clothing industry and I still have clothing from the 70's and some of my mother's from even earlier. Clothing now is made to last two or 3 seasons......if you're lucky !
You make a substantive observation Marie-Anne, clothing prices are up and quality is down, you really have to check the finishings before you buy anything now. But I enjoyed your tour of Caen. My Uncle was part of the Canadian Forces who fought in the Battle for Caen and I visited Caen during my first research trip as a graduate student. I appreciate that you showed a picture of the organ at St. Peter's Church - you may recall that I am an organist and I also play at a St. Peter's. I love Normandy as, historically, my family came from Le Havre and sailed from there to New France and were part of the troops at Fortress Louisbourg. Excuse the historical discussion but I really enjoyed the memories of Caen. Merci!!
i haven't shopped new merchandise in years, I LOVE the quality of vintage at thrift stores
Salut Marie-Anne, yes I agree with you. Something changed with quality since a few years. More and more designers put polyester in their clothes. Shirts, completely made of synthetics, and very expensive.
Is this an easy way to make money?
I don't know. 🤔
@@MarieAnneLecoeur Bonjour, you are right. Labels and designer use for example Polyester because it is cheap.
That's why I sometimes buy at eco labels. They developped so much and the quality is very good. I do not buy evetything eco, I am honest, but more than in the past. Have a nice day and thank you for answering ❣
Hi Marie-Anne. Yes It was great to see a little of Caen. How disappointing your shopping trip was. I haven’t been shopping much for clothes to be honest. What I have noticed is lack of supply. We are experiencing difficulties with stock shortages here, understandably, due to Covid.
Agree! I tried to find just a good pair of black pants and couldn’t find a pair that didn’t have elastic in the back. I guess that’s one way the manufacturers can ensure they fit a lot of folks … but not for me!
What a dreadful experience😢 I’ve noticed this as well-plastic zippers and buttons coated to appear as metal. Lack of quality. Disgraceful. I haven’t bought many clothes ‘new’ since 2018(?) or thereabouts. My favorite store closed and u can’t find quality and value. So I buy used..yes, used. ThredUp has lovely things and nothing has ever ‘looked’ worn at all-most of my clothes look more worn😂. It’s troubling that the world is on a ‘green’ kick and prices are skyrocketing to ‘save the environment’ yet cheap, fast fashion is using tons of plastic.
Beautiful town, lovely restaurant. Tommy Hilfiger (and others) must up the game! Probably the older clothes from thrift shops are better than the new stuff...or sewing one's own if one can.
I agree. I used to love Tommy Hilfiger clothes. They don't offer the same quality anymore.
Tommy Hilfiger here in the US, isn't high quality normally. And yes I've noticed lower quality items for a few years now, as well as fabric store fabrics being low quality for over ten years. It's a very real problem. I sew, and know the difference. US customers want sales and cheap prices, it's very sad.
So pleased that the ripped jeans trend is not popular there!
I noticed so many stores do not steam the garments before they put them out!! Long ago when I worked in Retail, this was definitely the rule! Quality, too, is lacking these days!! Thank you for taking us along with you today! ❤️
Madame Lecoeur, once I saw the inside of the Cathedral I could have cared less about shopping. You could do travel vlogs!! Back to shopping...right now I'm shopping my closet. I have put one pair of navy bermuda shorts and 2-3 quality summers tops in my style journal. Madam Lecoeur, you have taught me to hold out for quality not quantity. Merci!
I thought it was my imagination but its actually true, clothes have gone down in quality in the shops. I would understand if I was in Primark, but Tommy Hilfiger? And on top of that its 450 euros. Like many of the previous comments I find that I get better quality items secondhand and I pay a fraction of the price. Gone are the days I used to enter a shop and actually buy things from there. Thankyou for this informative vlog x
Bonjour, this was interesting, thank you for sharing your thoughts! I haven't been to Galleries Lafayette for many years because I was never a great fan but I do remember the quality was good. Sadly, it's a general trend. Marks and Spencer used to offer great quality value (I still have many of their all time classic clothes in excellent condition even after decades and a lot of wear) but a few years ago M&S's quality started to disappear so much it was shocking. Knitwear that bobble after the first wear, linen trousers that wear out in a couple of months... I compare the new items with what my husband and I have in our wardrobes... you just can't find the same yarn/material quality any more in those stores. The M&S woollen knitwear in the 90s was almost as good as St James, we've proof of this in our wardrobes after comparing them :) they are all still in amazing condition. Youare so right, Marie-Anne, most stores do not care about quality any more, only about profit. It's all for FAST FASHION.
That’s how I feel when I go shopping. The clothes are either too young or poorly made. I like Ann Taylor and I like Talbots. That’s about the only two that are really nice. They are clothing is well-made and last a long time
Love your videos and especially your honesty. Your new vocabulary for shrinking sizes and quality were right on! I’ve shared with you in the past about salvaging designer buttons-the older the better quality. Hope your delicious lunch made up for the poor shopping.
I had similar experience. I needed a new pair of jeans to replace the old one that I have had for over 4 years so I go back to the same store that I bought it. I found the same style jeans but the quality was different. It was thinner. I ended up trying so many jeans in the changing room and was not satisfied because they were all kinda thin not the usual good weight to the denim. Same thing happened with bags. I have been searching for a good real leather bag since last year to replace my worn out one. It was very disappointing to see brands, even the expensive brands using fake leather but still the prices are high. And the finishing on the clothes I agree with you. I ordered a summer dress, got it home and it was not lined. The fabric was so thin too you could see my underwear. I returned it the very next day.
Marie Anne you are absolutely right! I have noticed it as well. I am even more attatched to my old high quality pieces now. I am learning to sew and have already accomplished to make good quality bags with high quality fabrics and buttons. I also find harder to dress my boy. He is 8 and so many kidsbrands have left Italy since the pandemic started! Exemples: z-generation and camaieu
I agree wholeheartedly Marie-Anne about the decline in quality. I have kept many items from decades ago simply because the quality is unbelievably good compared to nowadays. Thank goodness vintage is in fashion! One modern UK brand I would recommend is Poetry. I recently bought a knitted cotton cardigan jacket in a biker style (but minus the zips.) Whoever designed this deserves a medal. It is superb. It looks chic and is so warm and cosy. It was £119 and I thought long and hard before I bought it, but I absolutely love the quality and the style. Good quality clothes give you so much more than cost per wear justifications. They can make you feel wonderful and that is priceless.
I have found this to be true for years now. The same with shoes. You can't trust a more expensive brand to be higher quality. It's very frustrating because it would be nice to purchase a few more expensive items, knowing that it would be an investment.
Exactly. I always bought silk shirts and I do have quite a few as warm in winter and cool in summer and they were always french seamed. No longer french seamed and at the same price...The fashion world is changing and probably not the only section of manufacturing.
I agree completely. I'm so disappointed at the stitching, finishing, buttons. Right now I'm looking in thrift stores (les brocantes) for vintage pieces that I can modify with my sewing machine. And yes! No one is bothering to iron anything - wrinkles abound. Very sad state of affairs. But your videos encourage me to uphold my standards. I will double down on my discerning ways. Thank you Marie-Anne for your candor.
Yes, the view you showed us of the chateau(?) and church is magnificent. I agree, shopping can be disappointing and quality is lacking in several stores at present! We shall continue to shop and look for those WOW items and pass by the rest. I do that now when I shop! I ask myself "Is this a WOW?" That helps me decide to buy or pass by items.
Marie-Anne thank you so much. I thought, I am the only one who denies buying in the city. And that started long before Covid came in place. I shop at least one third second hand and founded dream clothes in top quality. I saved so much, that I could afford my long wanted coat from Max Mara online (worldwide). The new collection is out now, and I ordered a very expensive coat, that my sister has for 15 years. And, as an exception, the quality is amazing, like before. Due to coming inflation, things will be much more expensive in the future. For shoes I found a superb quality brand in the UK, Fairfax & Favor. Problem is now the Brexit, I don’t want to pay customs. I live in Germany, and most of the people don’t even recognize good style and quality. That explains the overwhelming amount of cheap clothes in the shops here.
It's sad when quality goes down. I would rather pay more and get the quality I expect from a brand. I haven't shopped in quite a while, but it must be the same here. I can't believe they didn't even steam the clothes before hanging them. Shameful
xo~linda
Marie-Anne, I totally agree with you about the poor quality in clothing now. I'm sorry that I took for granted the good stores with fine quality clothes we used to frequent, and am nearly sick that I have given away most of my fine things. I always took it for granted that I could replace those things, but now I cannot for any amount of money, certainly in my city. I will not order online because you don't know what you're getting. I never hear you talk about upscale thrift shops, but honestly, I can occasionally get nice, well made clothing there. I hate to think this is one of my last options. But you may decide in the future to do a show on thrift shops. Meanwhile, there are still a couple of stores in my area that sell pretty good things, but many of the styles are either boring or outlandish. Thank you, thank you for stepping up and sharing your unfortunate shopping experience. Your honesty is refreshing, and it makes us feel validated in our frustrations!
You saved yourself from spending for inferior products. I always check the fabric and cleaning instructions on the inside of garments before I buy them.
I agree. My last shopping expedition to the city centre was very unsuccessful due to poor quality and presentation - I’ve never seen so many creased garments!! Luckily I live near some small towns with excellent independent boutiques - success😁
They do, and it makes all the difference. Larger shops need to value their customers more. Thank you for raising this issue😊
Thank you for sharing the scenery🌸. It is disappointing when you have “high hopes”. I’ve been visiting thrift stores in hopes of finding quality.
Bonjour Marie Anne you are totally correct when you say low quality it’s everywhere name brands sell their name to the highest bidder they in-turn start cutting corners with cheaper fabrics buttons lesser skilled manufacturers and in store no one wants to work here in Hawaii people have not been working for a year and collecting unemployment checks with a bonus of 300 dollars no one wants to work because they get more money staying home there is a shortage of people willing to work and on top of that younger people go to work for a day and never come back so bottom line it’s like that everywhere
Clearly those collecting unemployment with the $300 bonus are making more $$ than what they were earning. I don't blame them.
As a teenager (50years ago) m Mother taught me how to make clothes and I used to make my own trousers and blouses so I always wore things nobody else had ...sewing them by hand !!!
Fabric became more expensive and ready made clothes much cheaper ...the quality was much better then so I stopped doing it.
Now ,as you say Marie-Anne ,the clothes are very pricey and the quality not as good so I have dusted off my sewing machine ........I feel some navy and white striped T shirt fabric is going on my list along with some white strong cotton for a skirt...I wonder where I got that idea from ?lol !
GOD bless Marie-Anne and French chic ladies
Gilly wife of Mark
@@MarieAnneLecoeur When I get to it...I shall attempt to figure out how to send the pics.
I visited Caen many years ago as a tribute to my Father...sadly he passed the year before...he was part of the first wave of soldiers in during the war to take Pegasus bridge then moved inland .......there is a very sweet and lovely little cafe there .I hope the two dear ladies who were running the cafe in 2002 are still there.
GOD bless and thank you for your reply.
Gilly wife of Mark
Hi I was wondering if it’s the pandemic that has lowered quality as well as choice.
I have also found that there is a lack-lustre, down-at-the-heel, reduced quality in some shops here in rural Victoria, Australia, too Marie-Anne. I do not accept that staff in stores should use COVID as an excuse for not trying to present clothing better. Yes, un-ironed clothes I have seen on racks in a popular department store here. Although staffing may be an issue in some places, for e.g. in Melbourne due to lockdown, this should not prevent people from keeping quality and appeal of their items to a standard. The huge increase in online shopping by necessity has likely had an impact, however, many of us would rather visit shops to see and experience what our stores have to offer first-hand. I agree, it is disappointing.
I agree on the lack of quality in many of the designers. I grew up with two Italian aunts that were seamstresses in the old fashioned way. I love French style the most, but kudos to Tod’s, Missoni and Bottega Veneta. Those are my favs from the Italians. Beautiful church!
Totally agree with you, Marie-Anne. One of my biggest complaints is the poor quality of zips on mid/high priced handbags. It totally ruins the look and you just know the zip will wear out long before the bag. I know zips can be replaced but that's not the point - make it properly first time and take pride in the work or don't bother! Ok, putting away my soapbox now. :)) Love your channel, Marie-Anne, and merci beaucoup for all the tips you share. Au revoir.
Hi Marie-Anne. Here in Texas my shopping experience has be disappointing also. It’s hard to find good quality items in the malls. I go to second hand shops. Finding well made items for less. I’m glad you had a wonderful lunch. You liked happy about your lunch. Love you
Hello! I totally agree with you! I am also very disappointed by the very poor quality of clothes and other things in stores, both in my country and abroad.The big fashion brands should be ashamed because they produce poor quality things that they sell at exorbitant prices. There is simply no respect for anything...so sad...
I sew and sell online (not clothing) and I too have noticed since Covid that the quality of fabrics has significantly deceased. My understanding is that the fabric mills were having difficulty in keeping up with demand. Love your videos.
Bonjour Marie-Anne, I really agree. Very frustrating. Everything has to be fast these days. I remember my morher saying, buy clothes which will last for ever. You have to search for a good deux piece, a skirt that is lined inside, a blazer that is also lined inside and the material of good natural products such as wool, silk, lining etc. I have no problem paying a little more for good quality, does not have to be a brand, as you say a lot of brands even rip you off these days. It's all about profit, bigger, better, faster, more. 🤑
I noticed the shops here in the UK are shabby at the moment I think covid has stopped the shops stocking up properly and they are holding old stock. I have stopped shopping online too I always send them back its a waste of my time
The wind? Actually it reminds me of one of my favorite videos you have that I've watched more than once ... walking on the beach talking about the French lifestyle and mindset.
I was thinking about that video the other day. It must have made an impression.
As a British History professor I was so excited to see William the Conqueror's castle. I'll have to visit it. Thank you for showing it! Hilfiger has always been poor quality in my opinion. It is a brand name that people buy just to have that label. But outside the shopping malls, there are many smaller shops and local industries that are now making sustainable garments in European factories that control the conditions and salaries of their workers (this is E.U laws) and use recyclable or natural materials. I have seen beautiful items produced locally that are lovely quality here in Spain. So, now I seek these out online. I haven't been to a mall for nearly 2 years now, and they won't be getting my custom anytime soon. xxxx
Marie Anne, there is a brand in Copehegen called Rosemunde where I did online purchases in their site a few times already. They have lovely silk+cotton tops. The fabric is nice, simple design but with laces around neck or around the cuffs and they have a pretty good length like 68cm. They also carry cashmere cardigans and wool cardigans. They have worldwide delivery. I live in the U.S., the shipping is pretty fast, usually it takes like a week to get delivered.
The "covid excuse". Whether true or an excuse to cut corners, I hope we all get back to normal soon. It was still enjoyable watching your vlog and escaping to Europe for a few minutes, lol! I am glad you are not wearing a mask!
@@MarieAnneLecoeur we are not wearing masks anymore where I live in the U.S. and I hope that will soon be true everywhere!
I agree with everything you say Marie-Anne! Fortunately, I have found an amazing family shop that stocks a range of well made, beautiful clothes- that they select very carefully-if you visit the shop the staff are knowledgeable and helpful without being "pushy" and their on-line is good too. It's not cheap but everything I have bought from there has lasted me years. It's a bit like "old fashioned" service for up to date clothes, It's called Angela Beer's in Bramhall in England.
Bonjo Marie-Ann, thanks for sharing. Nice looking place. Marie-Ann they don't make good quality things anymore.
I too noticed much less selection at Nordstrom in Dallas and what there was tended toward lower cost/quality items. But there were quite a few shoppers so let us hope as the economy reestablishes itself the quality and selection will return. I DID find a pair of wonderful, comfortable red shoes so I feel those alone will help me feel chic.
I shop Nordstrom online because I have found that when I go into the store the items are not there. They have to be ordered. They offer free ship and free return so I shop on line. I am still looking for a full length slip and wish I knew where one could be purchased.
I'm guessing you're about my age. Did you have a time in France when the little children were up in arms over the shrinking chocolate bars? I remember we were all very vocal about it in the candy store.
Hello Marie, I sooooo agree with you . It’s appalling to see items at high price and low quality in manufacturing. I sure hope the wine and cheese in France never comes down to that ! Marie I think your lovely and you can make a potato sack look classy . Love from sunny Florida…. ☀️☀️☀️❤️❤️❤️
I have noticed the same. I grew up with two aunts that were seamstresses in the old fashioned way. They were Italian, although i might give more kudos to the French for style. With that said, thank goodness for Tod’s, Missoni and Bottega Veneta.
So true Difficult to find good clothes now
Like many commenters, I agree and have noticed particularly since covid the quality has fallen alarmingly. Not just in finishes, but the fabrics, so much polyester and man made synthetic fibres. Don’t get me started on presentation, I wonder if retailers remember how to spell iron! I’m happy I’ve learnt how to sew with covid, now I’m slowly making my own clothes, not only can I chose the fabrics, colours and styles I actually like, but can tailor to my shape!
IT's a global phenomenon because of chinese industry competition, quality has declined everywhere.
what a shame to hear that the clothing quality has declined so! and you look beautiful and chic as always, Marie - Anne
Yes I've noticed the same in Melbourne Australia
Agreed Marie-Anne, especially about handbags. So called designers (MK comes to mind) churn out plastic handbags with astronomical price tags. I'd rather have 2nd hand leather from a charity shop. Lovely to see the château & église at Caen, I miss France soooo much. Bon weekend.
Spot on, Marie-Anne, quality has to be the deciding factor- very much like food. In USA, GMOs allowed in food unlike in FR.
Shoes & bags hard hit as you describe.
Recently bought a name brand & the sole peeled off after 2 wearings! Regluing it myself w type of waterproof Gorilla brand glue as no shoe repair close by. Shopping now very rarely productive.
I agree as I have found the quality here in sth Australia has gone down too.. jumpers that look gorgeous at a distance with high price tags are just acrylic and don't last.. I bought an expensive pair of trousers 2 weeks ago and 3 wears on have stretched 2 sizes. Very disappointed as now I have to throw out..nothing is how it was .. so am making do with my old faithful..x
o
Yes you are so right here in Italy it's the same , must be the covid-19 . It's shop the closet for me this year . Ciao 😘
YES!!! It's not just me, then. Or the USA then. I'm constantly commenting on this to my husband. I think the "brand" names are cutting corner. I think that the lesser known brands, maybe the smaller, more boutique companies are better value right now. I feel the same way about service and quality of food at restaurants, service at stores, just about everything in our "post-covid" (are we really post-covid??) world. If the brand name/designer labels are about the same quality or slightly only better than the "fast fashion" labels, then what's the point in paying more?!? I'm not sure some of these brands are going to make it after cutting corners so much. Thanks for showing us the lovely scenery!
I visited France in 2017 and spent time in Montauban, where I visited the Galleries Lafayette there. Hard to believe the difference between then and now.....
@@MarieAnneLecoeur Yes, no doubt Marie-Anne. It is as if there is a whole galaxy that spans that time gap in so many ways, no? The world is changing in ways we do not even comprehend yet..... On a different note, loved your photos of Caen, and the info about William the Conquerer. My favorite when I visited was Najac, and the Fortress that Richard the Lion Heart built. No doubt he did not even speak English, though a British King. Also loved Cahors...
Thanks for sharing Caen with us. 💐
Beautiful view and beautiful cathedral! I just had a disappointment with a brand which I consider quite good in the U.S., I bought a ponte knit pant and I found out it came with a bad and broken side zipper. I have to return it, sadly. Over the past few years, I have had the same feeling that many brands can no longer hold up to their quality in the past. It is like it is better to buy one or two more extra the same items you like, otherwise, when you wear them out, you can hardly find the similar one to replace them of the same brand. I am over 40, I cannot wear something like a cropped top with ripped jeans. I need clothes that have some decent body length, fabrics that make me feel comfy, and high-rise pants that make me feel good.
Marie-Anne, thank you for that little walking tour, I felt like a tourist while watching you. I could not agree more about the deterioration of the clothing industry. € 400 ($600 in Canada) this would be an expensive coat and for that kind of money, the buttons should be metal.
So much of our clothing is made in China and other emerging countries so that the retailers can make more profits because of cheap labour. It seems like you would have to 2 infront of that €400, and buy that coat from Balmain to get proper hardware and a well finished item.I wish I could afford to do that.🙏
Hi Marie Anne thanks again for this fantastic video so so true . Yes here in Mauritius I have this huge problem the cheap shops are everywhere and the so called good quantity shop are expensive for the general shoppers and quality are going down too . Proper leather hand bags are just out of price here compared to the salary in general . I haven’t bought one for a long time waiting to see a real one first so many copies of faux leather . I hear myself saying all your comments and sometimes I am been called too fussy 😅. Your video keeps me connected with Europe which I desperately miss . Thanks take care 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
Can't think of a better reason to explore vintage.
I used to be a seamstress and yes I see mistakes I would have gotten in big trouble for making! Stripes and patterns that don’t match up along the seams. Simple things involving cuts that throw off the whole center of a pair of jeans/pants. The quality of jean materials is just awful. I get strange puckering after a few wears. And if I had a dollar for every zipper that’s gone bad the last few years, even on a CK coat?! I’ve had the zipper replaced and it too went bad. I completely agree with you on all points!
Speaking of zippers, I had a pretty black floral LOFT dress that I wore many times until I tried it on after a year of not wearing it, and the zipper was stuck. It became tight on top(I think my rib cage expanded), so I tried taking it off. The zipper was stuck, no matter what I did. We finally cut the dress out of frustration; otherwise, I could hardly breathe. I was sad because I liked the dress a lot. I missed it so much that I found the exact same one (went up one size) on Poshmark. As soon as I tried it on, guess what? The zipper was stuck again. I managed to take it off. I tried to put the pull back on, and the pull snapped in two! What a pity because the dress is beautiful-I just could wear it for so many times. That explains the quality of even the prettiest clothes. 😢
Thank you for sharing your shopping experience with us, unfortunately quality in garments has declined over the years, and it's sad to see. I now shop second hand, and I also purchase my clothing from small designers as well. great topic!
I am enjoying a lot the places you are visiting.......
The more rural one goes, the less success one has. I am continually impressed by your style videos, and just purchased a pair of pearl stud earrings. Keep up the good work! 🥰
Hi Marie love your video keep them coming.🇬🇧☕️
Hi Marie- the quality of clothing in the USA has been declining rapidly for years even in once trusted brands. It is really sad.
Yes, absolutely. Things are made so cheaply. I used to not mind paying the extra money for quality, but now the cheap stuff is no longer cheap!