This is one of the few tier ranking videos I've enjoyed as much as I thought I would when I clicked on it. Normally I get bored just a few ranks in, but I really enjoyed this. I'd watch another for sure! Maybe jewelry brands?
Both Bash and Sandro have stores in my city and they have both succumbed to Viscose-itis. They're shockingly expensive for the materials used. I feel like the construction is still really good - but I keep wondering why on earth these pieces needed to be made. Who needs a scratchy, stiff viscose tube dress that you can't even wash? And don't get me started on the poly/acrylic/polyamide fake tweed pieces. Not only will they not wear well, they won't even keep you warm. It's a damn shame as I have some older, absolutely beautiful Sandro pieces that I bought on consignment when they still produced pieces in natural fibres.
Re. Alex Mill, it's actually illegal under the Consumer Contracts Regulations in the UK not to offer returns at all if selling online under "distance selling" regulations. It's written in law, so I'm interested to see how they're getting away with this... Really enjoyed the video btw - I like the fact you're not afraid to give your opinion. Too many these days are afraid to say anything (like "absolute trash" lol!) for fear of losing sponsorships etc. Like your authenticity. 🙂
I loved this video and thought you were fair with how you considered the hype and the price point as well as quality and design. Brands like Sezane and Polene I used to love a couple years ago as well. Once a brand goes the way of wanting growth at the cost of quality, I feel it's really hard for them to turn back... I wish these bands were better and never sacrificed product quality or customer service...
I really like Doen's designs but I've noticed the prices have gone up while the quality has declined, especially as they've used more viscose and making the clothes in China. Their 100% cotton dresses are great, especially for summer; however, I've been very disappointed with the quality of their viscose pieces and have even seen some items made with polyester which is disappointing. I'm a huge fan of Christy Dawn, I own several of their dresses and I'm really happy with the quality. A few brands you didn't mention that I think are worth trying are Ivko Woman and Gaala Paris -both of them make stunning coats and dresses. I really want to try Pink City Prints and Fleuron this year.
A really useful video, Katie 😊and I enjoyed hearing your views on these brands. I agree about Sézane though I do still find myself tempted by many of their items. My personal ranking of Uniqlo is higher and I really like many of their pure wool, cotton and cashmere items. Wishing you a Merry Christmas 🎄🎁❄️
I bought the suzane bag you mentioned after months of deliberation and waiting for the glossy burgundy to be back in stock - excited when it was delivered yesterday but so very disappointed - the quality is poor , too glossy and doesn't look like leather - already sealed up to return so now on the hunt for another bag.
Your analysis about Christy dawn is spot on as someone who owns several of their dresses! Christy Dawn is a brand that is consistently flattering, that I always feel comfortable buying second hand knowing I’m not going to dislike/resell after the purchase. I essentially live in their dresses during the summer months 😂
@@juanitab7076I would agree. I’ve dealt with them on a number occasions (just last week) and the level of service was amazing, both online and in store. I guess everyone is different 😊 x
I went into Alex Mill in NYC, it felt like the vintage JCrew store, which I am sure has an element of quality but at that price point, it needs way more imagination. Even finding old Ralph Lauren would do. I also think being associated with Mickey Drexeler -Alex’s father means they have plenty of cash and know how to offer returns. I have an older Apple e bag that I want to sell and now I’m concerned it won’t be easy to sell…I need to get on that. This was fun, I found some new names…PS I am surprised at the amount of high end brands using poor materials that don’t hold up so I’m happy you mention it.
Love the video. Just recently found out it’s not possible to recycle mixed material fabrics! Better 100% of one thing! Agree with your point on buying natural fabrics. So much better. I thought the Sienna Miller for M&S summer collection was excellent .
I greatly enjoyed this video and found it fitting my thoughts about these brands. Your channel has been so helpful for my online shopping and finding my personal style. Thank you so much for making these videos and cannot wait for more in 2025.
Thanks for the video! The only thing i don’t think is nice is that in the ‘can do no wrong’ section is there are only very expensive brands, nice if there are brands involved In a more gentle pricerange. But anyway it was nice!❤
I love the unapologetic approach. I do agree with you on most accounts (some I have no experience with so can't really comment). What a creative idea to include Vinted (I'm glad you did!). Great video!
Lilysilk is sooooo overhyped. It’s really high in prices and the cashemire isn that great. Everything is very thin and see through. Their pants look awful on me :( very sad.
Yessss!!! I wasted thousands of dollars on that brand!!! I haven’t purchased from them in the past three years or so and I don’t think I’m ever going back
@@katie_louise I hadn't either - until I bought my most recent purchase - the dropped shoulder striped cashmere sweater. It's very thin and wasn't described as "lightweight." It also has an odd chemical smell and the sleeves are absurdly long. To be fair, it's absolutely the first thing that's disappointed me so I'm hoping it was just a one-off and not an indicator of a downward quality trend.
A much needed list thank you. Not enough creators in the uk rate brands on quality. Its really difficult to decide where to shop. Btw, what are your thoughts on massimo dutti?
What a fun video with some great information, will definitely be keeping this in mind when shopping. Nice to hear you live in Bath, me too! I personally would rate Uniqlo so much higher, they make up 90 percent of my wardrobe 😂.
Haha, I knew Uniqlo would be controversial! They're probably great if you have a more minimal style so I can totally understand why some people would love them
I agree with you about COS. My style is feminine so COS isn’t for me either. As for Rouje, I’ve tried their dresses and skirts but, sold them because the viscous fabric wrinkles, feels rough and is poor quality for the expensive price.
Absolutely LOVED this video!!! I will say that my only critique about Christy Dawn is that her designs are rubbish on petite frames! I’m 5’2” and my CD dress is just all wrong, but the design is almost unalterable if I took it in for alterations. The waist is so long and the way the delicate fabric is layered would make alterations outrageous. It really does break my heart.
could you do a video about mid luxury clutches and small bags that are appropriate for parties and formal events? I'm having a hard time finding one that I like!
I do think putting Maje & Sandro in “absolute trash” is a bit harsh haha but I also agree they didn’t quite belong in any of the other categories as you laid out. I agree with you on the style of COS which I’ve just never found interesting (same with Everlane, just not my style). I am quite torn on Uniqlo as I do have a lot of their pieces but they are very much fast fashion (which interestingly doesn’t get talked about a lot) and the amount of collections they put out each year is astounding. Both Madewell and its sister company Jcrew’s quality have declined quite a bit over the years. Sezane is still where I shop most because they have trained me to not wait for sales 😅 but it does feel like they’re heading in a fast fashiony direction which makes me sad.
I have found some real gems at M&S over the last year or 2- pieces that are natural fibre and very flattering on me. But I do agree, I think their quality is gradually declining, and its such a shame to see polyester creeping in more and more. You can still find some excellent pieces there, but its certainly not effortless.
I totally agree with all the brands in the trash category. &Other Stories - I like some of their shoes, I bought two pairs this year and I caught myself wearing them constantly. Madewell - I bought a pair of boots and a utility bag from them when I moved to the US in November this year and I’m wearing them constantly. I bought a pair of jeans too, but they are meh. Sezane - I buy from them less and less, even more now that I’m in the US and they are pricy here. Alex Mill - they are a bit cheaper in the US than in the UK. I bought two pieces from them based on your recommendation and they are super quality. Reformation, Rouge, Petite Mendigote - not worth the money. Overall in the past two years I noticed that loads of brands decreased their quality. Not sure if it’s because of ramping inflation or corporate greed but brands that were once great are now offering stuff in cheap materials.
Love this video! I am sadly someone who has to report negatively about Bobbies. I have a pair of chelsea boots from them and while the style is lovely, the quality is really not up there for the price... I've had to take them to the cobbler after just a few wears to get them to re-glue the inner sole back together because it had shifted when I walked and the entire wooden part of the heel was exposed on the inside which has never happened to me with a pair of boots! the inside of the boots also constantly stains my socks black and the pull tab at the back came apart on one of the first wears too. they're very pretty and comfortable too but i really should not have had so many issues from them with how little i wore them... i feel like if anything, i'll stick to only buying some pretty occasion shoes that i'm not going to wear very often or need to rely on as a core part of my wardrobe from them. it was definitely a disappointing experience...
Love your videos happy holidays. So funny you mentioned duo boots I discovered them 20 years ago and all you could really get was pointed square or almond toe boots 😁 they are some of the best quality knee high boots I have ever tried. I still miss my chocolate brown suede pointed ones with a kitten heel RIP boots 😢
@katie_louise they were fabulous and now who knows where they are hopefully with someone who loves them as much as I did. I'm ashamed of myself I think this was when disposable fashion was starting to rear it's ugly head I was young and naive and very silly but very experimental but quality is nowhere where it used to be and prices are extortionate
I bought from Realisation their very first few drops and I was in love with the cut and silk fabric! It was thin but it was thin in a really flattering way... now it feels so cheap... sad. Have to agree with all your picks and thoughts
Arket is also part of the H&M group. I’ve only ever purchased their Cloud jeans - amazing wide leg all cotton jeans. I bought my first pair of Bobbies last week - too early to say but the shoes are lovely, well finished and comfortable so will see how they go. I’m a year into using my Demellier Vancouver bag and still love it, yes the clasp got badly scratched but that’s just part of wearing something. Otherwise most of my purchases were all Sezane this year
Love the video. Your honesty about the brands makes it so much fun to watch! Could listen to you for hours :) P.s. I would be so interested in a oddmuse review. Really curious if they are worth the hype.
I feel like aesthetic preference aside (because I'm quite the opposite of you in the sense that I really dislike more feminine designs and go for minimal and masculine all the time), Cos can still be quite good. You need to know what you're looking for and really grapple with the fabric and construction, but they sometimes really knock it out of the park like no other mid-range priced brand.
Interesting regarding Polene, as it seems to be a complete hit or miss - I have worn my Deux since February, basically every day, and it looks like straight out of the box still. I'm so pleased with the quality that I'm considering getting another bag from there in the future.
I love this video! I'm from the US and have 3 Christy Dawn dresses and one knitted vest, and I would rate them as Demoted honestly :/. I would put current Christy Dawn quality on par with current Sezane. They're not as good (quality wise) as Doen - I have a handful of pieces from them as well!
Rouje's quality(the fabric, the production) dipped a lot throughout the last two or three years... The designs are repetitive in these recent seasons, I used to have my closet half filled by this brand and not anymore, which is a real shame - and you are right about the sizing, once it goes past fr 36 I believe the pattern becomes weird...
I have moved away from Sézane and have been shopping more from smaller brands and I’ve also been loving COS’ natural fiber pieces. Have you ordered from W Concept? I’m interested in some of their wool and cashmere blend coats.
W Concept just carries a lot of smaller Korean brands- the quality can be very hit or miss depending on the designer. Always cross-check the items you're interested in with other Korean shopping sites that would carry the same products (Musinsa), or even the brand's original website
I 100% agree with you with Vinted. If their customer service was a bit better they would be 'can do bo wrong'. I have ordered something that was too big for the letter box in the door but the carrier took a photo of it in front of the letterbox and left it presumably outside as I never received the item. The seller wouldn't refund and Vinted didn't either 😢 but when things are good Vinted is great!
oh that's terrible! I've had that happen too but I was the seller and my buyer never received their item despite it saying it was delivered. It's really tricky if Vinted won't do anything because then someone is always going to end up out of pocket :( I wish their customer service would improve as like you said everything else is so good and I love that it's made secondhand shopping more accessible for people that maybe don't like rummaging around in charity shops.
@@katie_louise it's so much easier finding good quality clothes second hand and also a lot more size inclusive than charity shops tend to be so I do really hope that the costumer service for buyers improves this year 😊
do you find doen washes ok? I would hand wash and what I am looking at is 100% cotton which helps, but despite this everything looks so delicate and for this reason I have been nervous
My doen denim and cotton tops have washed beautifully. Ive had so many for many years. I did buy a color block printed dress that the dye absolutely bled into the white of the dress. I was super disappointed. I hand washed properly in the laundress and it was a nightmare.
Depends on the item. Anything that is the light cotton voile is indeed very delicate. You’ll want to handwash (by itself in a basin, not on handwash setting in a machine). And then after drying you’ll need to steam out wrinkles before wearing. If you’re willing to do this level of clothing care then you can keep their delicate pieces looking great for years. Another thing to note is that their white cotton pieces are often quite see-through. You’ll want to embrace that look or have a stash of nude slips on hand.
I handwash most of my clothing (certainly anything of a Doen price point) so I think it would be fine if you're willing to take the time to handwash carefully. Especially cotton. I'd be more worried about viscose which is a nightmare for shrinking.
Great video, thank you. Do you have some opinions on Gaala Paris ? I’ve seen them on Instagram, and the designs sees to be really pretty, but not sure about quality 😊
I love Cos t-shirts. Like to the point I randomly check to see if they posted new colors on a semi regular basis. I’m also a fan of the t-shirts I got from & other stories, especially my graphic UFO tee. I also really like the Breezy button ups from Djerf Avenue because I like the texture of the fabric, but I could live without the rest of the line. Edit: I hadn’t heard about the Djerf Ave controversy thing. Ugh.
I love my Christy Dawn "dawn dress". They offer it in petite sizing which is perfect for me. BUT the price for what it is... a simple (but well made) cotton dress is just too high. And I know they are ethical etc. but even for that it is way too expensive. So I will have it in my closet for a long time but will not purchase more stuff from them. Maybe secondhand 🤷♀️ Edit: I just saw they have an own preloved section, with really good prices, Love that, but sadly only for US
I agree on Sandro and Maje… rubbish materials for high prices. I do like Me and Em, although sometimes their fabrics are not great quality for the prices they charge.
OMG so true about Me and Em. I have 3 of their pieces - a lovely cotton summer blouse and 2 terrible quality knit pieces. One had the hem fall down during my first wear and the cardigan I bought has a cheapo droopy button band. Looks like an H & M piece quite honestly. As a Canadian it isn't feasible to do returns owing to the return postage costs - so I have to be really careful about online shopping. I was seduced by the first purchase and disillusioned by my second. Never again. Way too expensive for so-so quality. I was also surprised for the prices charged to have the pieces just dumped into a cheap plastic shipping envelope to emerge crumpled and very unloved looking.
I was just over there on the Rosae website - and I was super disappointed by their fibre composition trickery. Taking a page from Sezane, it appears that different colours may be made of different fibres so you have to click on composition every single time. E.g., they have 2 lovely *looking* chocolate brown sweaters that are made of a dog's breakfast of fibres, but other colours (often sold out) seem to have been 100% wool - or a blend of wool and cashmere. I can't tell you how much I hate that sort of nonsense. I wish that we could just rely on retailers to be both honest and consistent.
Rouje to me is expensive polyester/viscose for price of silk. I had to pause your video to go to their website and see that red dress and guess what, it’s not silk for 230$! I like overall their vintage designs but not the materials. Doen to me is hit or miss. I feel that lots of their designs are very pointless or very basic at very very high prices. I fell in love with their lingerie but it’s frustrating how most are out of stock! I love a curated collection but not that curated. Let’s say, I don’t get the hype with them overall, but would buy a piece or two that I absolutely happen to love. Uniqlo, I also don’t understand the hype. 🤷🏻♀️ I like my basics to be a bit more elevated. I guess I would only get some of their thermal wear but even that is not in natural fabrics. So I’ll rather go with merino wool instead. Duoboots to me can do no wrong! I finally was able to get some high quality leather boots that actually FIT my small calf as I hate the ‘oversize’ floppy trend. I like their design actually and that they go classic instead of following trends. Classic is never dated. Lilysilk, I am on the fence for now. I bought a red silk dress from them as I was very disappointed with Quince ones but let’s say I wasn’t too impressed either. It is not lined and has a leg opening that is going way to high up my hip which is very unflattering. I would definitely have to have that closed if I want to wear it. They conveniently didn’t photograph their model from that side on their website. Sezane, all the pieces I bought from them (all in 100% or close natural fibers) whether they are dresses, shirts, pants, belts and especially knitwear were impeccable. And I absolutely love the designs. They are a brand where I have a long wish list. Songmont, I would not repurchase though I am tempted with the red tofu bag. I bought the Chocolate bag in Mocha and it arrived in Vanilla. It looks gorgeous on the website but felt very plasticky and cheap like it was from Target. And you forgot Fabrique, for which I have to thank you for the recommendation! I bought a gorgeous wool coat I am happy with and the most impeccable stitched wool pants. I wish the prices would be lower and more items in natural fibers. M&S is hit or miss to me. Though I have a red velvet kitten heel shoes that I bought with 5$ years ago! They are still going strong and my favorite occasion shoes.
My demellier Bag has good quality. I think Cos doesn’t really fit your style. I started to buy there some months ago and I am obsessed now. My most favourite brand is still Sézane. I buy so much there. Second place is cos and Massimo Dutti but I also like buying HM.
I love cos and uniqlo. The heatteach and the puffer jacket from Uniqlo are my Go-to Tiemann I don‘t have a feminin style so I agree with a comment. I think Cos doesn‘t fit your style.
Perhaps an unpopular opinion, but Sézane feels incredibly overhyped and overpriced. The quality is underwhelming, and much like Djerf Avenue leans on the "Scandi" aesthetic, Sézane capitalizes on a heavily romanticized version of the French aesthetic. However, this style is often unflattering on most people. Their marketing and styling reflect a version of French fashion that likely only exists in the imagination of non-French audiences.
Sézane is just so disappointing. They had a good thing going and they've ruined it. M & S- I ordered a summer skirt from them and the fabric was some of the cheapest fabric I've ever seen. It was very much like a plastic garbage bag of a skirt. I won't buy clothing from them again. One order and I'm done with that brand. It shouldn't be so difficult to find quality clothing but it is these days!
Thank you very much Katie for sharing this lovely video and your honest unreserved opinions. I’ve discovered a few new brands in this video. I’ve just checked Christy Dawn but not sure if I would buy from them considering their price range and material, but some clothings do look stunning. I’ve been buying from Sezane for only about 1 year and half but I can definitely feel the declining of their quality and customer services, needless to say the price of a lot of their items have gone up to a point that are not worth the quality and material anymore. I feel like the price of their archive clothings are more realistic. I’ll definitely be more cautious buying from them in the future. The only thing I like Sezane the best is their free return service, but I also feel that many people have been taking advantage of that. I do believe one significant reason that Sezane has consistently raised their price was because of the raising international shipping costs, especially for long distance shipping such as to the North America and Australia. I feel like Sezane has been expanding too rapidly in the most recent years and the brand has become more controversial, but unfortunately it seems like this is non-stopping. I also like some smaller Parisian brands such as Rosae, Curling, Balzac…but they don’t offer free returns, and the return shipping costs is daunting. I’ve been watching your video for a year and I love the content you share. Merry Christmas Katie 🎉
Let’s not praise wool too much. It often involves harming animals, even killing them, and there are other natural fabrics that can replace wool easily.
I love cos and uniqlo. The heatteach and the puffer jacket from Uniqlo are my Go-to Tiemann I don‘t have a feminin style so I agree with a comment. I think Cos doesn‘t fit your style.
This is one of the few tier ranking videos I've enjoyed as much as I thought I would when I clicked on it. Normally I get bored just a few ranks in, but I really enjoyed this. I'd watch another for sure! Maybe jewelry brands?
Second this!
Im so glad you enjoyed it! I was thinking of doing one for jewellery brands
Both Bash and Sandro have stores in my city and they have both succumbed to Viscose-itis. They're shockingly expensive for the materials used. I feel like the construction is still really good - but I keep wondering why on earth these pieces needed to be made. Who needs a scratchy, stiff viscose tube dress that you can't even wash? And don't get me started on the poly/acrylic/polyamide fake tweed pieces. Not only will they not wear well, they won't even keep you warm. It's a damn shame as I have some older, absolutely beautiful Sandro pieces that I bought on consignment when they still produced pieces in natural fibres.
Re. Alex Mill, it's actually illegal under the Consumer Contracts Regulations in the UK not to offer returns at all if selling online under "distance selling" regulations. It's written in law, so I'm interested to see how they're getting away with this...
Really enjoyed the video btw - I like the fact you're not afraid to give your opinion. Too many these days are afraid to say anything (like "absolute trash" lol!) for fear of losing sponsorships etc. Like your authenticity. 🙂
I loved this video and thought you were fair with how you considered the hype and the price point as well as quality and design. Brands like Sezane and Polene I used to love a couple years ago as well. Once a brand goes the way of wanting growth at the cost of quality, I feel it's really hard for them to turn back... I wish these bands were better and never sacrificed product quality or customer service...
I really like Doen's designs but I've noticed the prices have gone up while the quality has declined, especially as they've used more viscose and making the clothes in China. Their 100% cotton dresses are great, especially for summer; however, I've been very disappointed with the quality of their viscose pieces and have even seen some items made with polyester which is disappointing.
I'm a huge fan of Christy Dawn, I own several of their dresses and I'm really happy with the quality. A few brands you didn't mention that I think are worth trying are Ivko Woman and Gaala Paris -both of them make stunning coats and dresses. I really want to try Pink City Prints and Fleuron this year.
A really useful video, Katie 😊and I enjoyed hearing your views on these brands. I agree about Sézane though I do still find myself tempted by many of their items. My personal ranking of Uniqlo is higher and I really like many of their pure wool, cotton and cashmere items. Wishing you a Merry Christmas 🎄🎁❄️
I know I'm in the minority when it comes to Uniqlo! Merry Christmas Cristina :)
I bought the suzane bag you mentioned after months of deliberation and waiting for the glossy burgundy to be back in stock - excited when it was delivered yesterday but so very disappointed - the quality is poor , too glossy and doesn't look like leather - already sealed up to return so now on the hunt for another bag.
Your analysis about Christy dawn is spot on as someone who owns several of their dresses! Christy Dawn is a brand that is consistently flattering, that I always feel comfortable buying second hand knowing I’m not going to dislike/resell after the purchase. I essentially live in their dresses during the summer months 😂
Ahh you make me want to try them even more! Definitely going to be buying a dress for summer next year
Sezanes customer service has declined significantly in addition to their quality. It’s been really disappointing
Oh wow. My experience with their customer service has been exceptional. Did something specific happen to you?
@@juanitab7076I would agree. I’ve dealt with them on a number occasions (just last week) and the level of service was amazing, both online and in store. I guess everyone is different 😊 x
I went into Alex Mill in NYC, it felt like the vintage JCrew store, which I am sure has an element of quality but at that price point, it needs way more imagination. Even finding old Ralph Lauren would do. I also think being associated with Mickey Drexeler -Alex’s father means they have plenty of cash and know how to offer returns. I have an older Apple e bag that I want to sell and now I’m concerned it won’t be easy to sell…I need to get on that. This was fun, I found some new names…PS I am surprised at the amount of high end brands using poor materials that don’t hold up so I’m happy you mention it.
Love the video. Just recently found out it’s not possible to recycle mixed material fabrics! Better 100% of one thing! Agree with your point on buying natural fabrics. So much better. I thought the Sienna Miller for M&S summer collection was excellent .
I love it when you're brutal about the brands. Thanks.
I greatly enjoyed this video and found it fitting my thoughts about these brands. Your channel has been so helpful for my online shopping and finding my personal style. Thank you so much for making these videos and cannot wait for more in 2025.
Oh thank you so much! So happy you enjoyed it :)
Thanks for the video! The only thing i don’t think is nice is that in the ‘can do no wrong’ section is there are only very expensive brands, nice if there are brands involved In a more gentle pricerange.
But anyway it was nice!❤
I love the unapologetic approach. I do agree with you on most accounts (some I have no experience with so can't really comment). What a creative idea to include Vinted (I'm glad you did!). Great video!
Lilysilk is sooooo overhyped. It’s really high in prices and the cashemire isn that great. Everything is very thin and see through. Their pants look awful on me :( very sad.
Oh, I haven’t had anything from them that’s see through! I have to admit I wear my Lilysilk knits constantly, I think they’re great 😅
Yessss!!! I wasted thousands of dollars on that brand!!! I haven’t purchased from them in the past three years or so and I don’t think I’m ever going back
@@katie_louisenever get a 100%silk dress!!! No lining or anything. Totally transparent
@@katie_louise I hadn't either - until I bought my most recent purchase - the dropped shoulder striped cashmere sweater. It's very thin and wasn't described as "lightweight." It also has an odd chemical smell and the sleeves are absurdly long. To be fair, it's absolutely the first thing that's disappointed me so I'm hoping it was just a one-off and not an indicator of a downward quality trend.
@@sparklie962 ahh that’s a shame, I hope not 😞
Did you have a response from Suzane following your review'?
A much needed list thank you. Not enough creators in the uk rate brands on quality. Its really difficult to decide where to shop. Btw, what are your thoughts on massimo dutti?
I was looking for this comment. I love Massimo Dutti but it can definitely be a hit or miss. But a lot of my favourite pieces are from them.
What a fun video with some great information, will definitely be keeping this in mind when shopping. Nice to hear you live in Bath, me too! I personally would rate Uniqlo so much higher, they make up 90 percent of my wardrobe 😂.
Haha, I knew Uniqlo would be controversial! They're probably great if you have a more minimal style so I can totally understand why some people would love them
I agree with you about COS. My style is feminine so COS isn’t for me either. As for Rouje, I’ve tried their dresses and skirts but, sold them because the viscous fabric wrinkles, feels rough and is poor quality for the expensive price.
Matilda Djerf being a pyscho boss wasn´t on my bingo card for this year 💩
mine neither... haha
Theory, Vince, Sandro, Maje - beautiful fabrics & construction. Yes, mostly updated classics. I love them - combined w odd shoes or hats to update.
Old Polene bags are great but after the new branding not so great to be honest which is sad I was definitely very loyal to this brand
I love this video! There are brands that I had no idea about! Thank you :)
You're so welcome!
Loved this video and your honesty is so refreshing 😊
Thank you! So glad you enjoyed it, I definitely had fun making it :)
Absolutely LOVED this video!!!
I will say that my only critique about Christy Dawn is that her designs are rubbish on petite frames! I’m 5’2” and my CD dress is just all wrong, but the design is almost unalterable if I took it in for alterations. The waist is so long and the way the delicate fabric is layered would make alterations outrageous. It really does break my heart.
Oh that's gutting :(
Where would you rank Fleuron bags?
would buy!
Ok thanks for your reply:)🫶
could you do a video about mid luxury clutches and small bags that are appropriate for parties and formal events? I'm having a hard time finding one that I like!
Ooh okay I'll have a think! I love Self Portrait bags for events off the top of my head
I do think putting Maje & Sandro in “absolute trash” is a bit harsh haha but I also agree they didn’t quite belong in any of the other categories as you laid out. I agree with you on the style of COS which I’ve just never found interesting (same with Everlane, just not my style). I am quite torn on Uniqlo as I do have a lot of their pieces but they are very much fast fashion (which interestingly doesn’t get talked about a lot) and the amount of collections they put out each year is astounding. Both Madewell and its sister company Jcrew’s quality have declined quite a bit over the years. Sezane is still where I shop most because they have trained me to not wait for sales 😅 but it does feel like they’re heading in a fast fashiony direction which makes me sad.
I have found some real gems at M&S over the last year or 2- pieces that are natural fibre and very flattering on me. But I do agree, I think their quality is gradually declining, and its such a shame to see polyester creeping in more and more. You can still find some excellent pieces there, but its certainly not effortless.
I totally agree with all the brands in the trash category. &Other Stories - I like some of their shoes, I bought two pairs this year and I caught myself wearing them constantly. Madewell - I bought a pair of boots and a utility bag from them when I moved to the US in November this year and I’m wearing them constantly. I bought a pair of jeans too, but they are meh. Sezane - I buy from them less and less, even more now that I’m in the US and they are pricy here. Alex Mill - they are a bit cheaper in the US than in the UK. I bought two pieces from them based on your recommendation and they are super quality. Reformation, Rouge, Petite Mendigote - not worth the money.
Overall in the past two years I noticed that loads of brands decreased their quality. Not sure if it’s because of ramping inflation or corporate greed but brands that were once great are now offering stuff in cheap materials.
Love this video! I am sadly someone who has to report negatively about Bobbies. I have a pair of chelsea boots from them and while the style is lovely, the quality is really not up there for the price... I've had to take them to the cobbler after just a few wears to get them to re-glue the inner sole back together because it had shifted when I walked and the entire wooden part of the heel was exposed on the inside which has never happened to me with a pair of boots! the inside of the boots also constantly stains my socks black and the pull tab at the back came apart on one of the first wears too. they're very pretty and comfortable too but i really should not have had so many issues from them with how little i wore them... i feel like if anything, i'll stick to only buying some pretty occasion shoes that i'm not going to wear very often or need to rely on as a core part of my wardrobe from them. it was definitely a disappointing experience...
Love your videos happy holidays. So funny you mentioned duo boots I discovered them 20 years ago and all you could really get was pointed square or almond toe boots 😁 they are some of the best quality knee high boots I have ever tried. I still miss my chocolate brown suede pointed ones with a kitten heel RIP boots 😢
Chocolate brown suede with kitten heel sound like my dream kinda boots! 😭 they must have been so gorgeous
@katie_louise they were fabulous and now who knows where they are hopefully with someone who loves them as much as I did. I'm ashamed of myself I think this was when disposable fashion was starting to rear it's ugly head I was young and naive and very silly but very experimental but quality is nowhere where it used to be and prices are extortionate
I bought from Realisation their very first few drops and I was in love with the cut and silk fabric! It was thin but it was thin in a really flattering way... now it feels so cheap... sad. Have to agree with all your picks and thoughts
So sad when brands go downhill like that :(
Arket is also part of the H&M group. I’ve only ever purchased their Cloud jeans - amazing wide leg all cotton jeans. I bought my first pair of Bobbies last week - too early to say but the shoes are lovely, well finished and comfortable so will see how they go. I’m a year into using my Demellier Vancouver bag and still love it, yes the clasp got badly scratched but that’s just part of wearing something. Otherwise most of my purchases were all Sezane this year
What are your thoughts on J.Crew??
Never tried it! I love the old J Crew photography from the 90's, the current stuff seems a bit 'meh' giving me Madewell vibes
J crew quality & sizing have plummeted recently. Horrid.
Love the video. Your honesty about the brands makes it so much fun to watch! Could listen to you for hours :)
P.s. I would be so interested in a oddmuse review. Really curious if they are worth the hype.
Thank you so much, that's really kind! I think I will do an OddMuse review in the new year, I'm super curious too
I feel like aesthetic preference aside (because I'm quite the opposite of you in the sense that I really dislike more feminine designs and go for minimal and masculine all the time), Cos can still be quite good. You need to know what you're looking for and really grapple with the fabric and construction, but they sometimes really knock it out of the park like no other mid-range priced brand.
Interesting regarding Polene, as it seems to be a complete hit or miss - I have worn my Deux since February, basically every day, and it looks like straight out of the box still. I'm so pleased with the quality that I'm considering getting another bag from there in the future.
Yeah I think they're definitely hit or miss!
I love this video! I'm from the US and have 3 Christy Dawn dresses and one knitted vest, and I would rate them as Demoted honestly :/. I would put current Christy Dawn quality on par with current Sezane. They're not as good (quality wise) as Doen - I have a handful of pieces from them as well!
Oh nooooo :(
Christy Dawn is top quality and definitely worth the money, more than Doen in my opinion, also they have sales sometimes.
Just bought my first Christy Dawn piece in their recent sale! I definitely want more, it's stunning
Rouje's quality(the fabric, the production) dipped a lot throughout the last two or three years... The designs are repetitive in these recent seasons, I used to have my closet half filled by this brand and not anymore, which is a real shame - and you are right about the sizing, once it goes past fr 36 I believe the pattern becomes weird...
I have moved away from Sézane and have been shopping more from smaller brands and I’ve also been loving COS’ natural fiber pieces. Have you ordered from W Concept? I’m interested in some of their wool and cashmere blend coats.
W Concept just carries a lot of smaller Korean brands- the quality can be very hit or miss depending on the designer. Always cross-check the items you're interested in with other Korean shopping sites that would carry the same products (Musinsa), or even the brand's original website
I 100% agree with you with Vinted. If their customer service was a bit better they would be 'can do bo wrong'. I have ordered something that was too big for the letter box in the door but the carrier took a photo of it in front of the letterbox and left it presumably outside as I never received the item. The seller wouldn't refund and Vinted didn't either 😢 but when things are good Vinted is great!
oh that's terrible! I've had that happen too but I was the seller and my buyer never received their item despite it saying it was delivered. It's really tricky if Vinted won't do anything because then someone is always going to end up out of pocket :( I wish their customer service would improve as like you said everything else is so good and I love that it's made secondhand shopping more accessible for people that maybe don't like rummaging around in charity shops.
Oh that´s terrible! I lost a Coach Cassie bag due to the shitty transport and Vinted being absolute trash to try to reason with.
Really? In germany you can lie and you get a refund
@@hijlaa that is such a shame! We pay for buyers protection but it doesn't really protect us that much.
@@katie_louise it's so much easier finding good quality clothes second hand and also a lot more size inclusive than charity shops tend to be so I do really hope that the costumer service for buyers improves this year 😊
do you find doen washes ok? I would hand wash and what I am looking at is 100% cotton which helps, but despite this everything looks so delicate and for this reason I have been nervous
My doen denim and cotton tops have washed beautifully. Ive had so many for many years. I did buy a color block printed dress that the dye absolutely bled into the white of the dress. I was super disappointed. I hand washed properly in the laundress and it was a nightmare.
Depends on the item. Anything that is the light cotton voile is indeed very delicate. You’ll want to handwash (by itself in a basin, not on handwash setting in a machine). And then after drying you’ll need to steam out wrinkles before wearing. If you’re willing to do this level of clothing care then you can keep their delicate pieces looking great for years. Another thing to note is that their white cotton pieces are often quite see-through. You’ll want to embrace that look or have a stash of nude slips on hand.
I handwash most of my clothing (certainly anything of a Doen price point) so I think it would be fine if you're willing to take the time to handwash carefully. Especially cotton. I'd be more worried about viscose which is a nightmare for shrinking.
Thank you all so much! :)
Great video, thank you. Do you have some opinions on Gaala Paris ? I’ve seen them on Instagram, and the designs sees to be really pretty, but not sure about quality 😊
Yeah I've never tried them but would be interested to!
I love Cos t-shirts. Like to the point I randomly check to see if they posted new colors on a semi regular basis. I’m also a fan of the t-shirts I got from & other stories, especially my graphic UFO tee. I also really like the Breezy button ups from Djerf Avenue because I like the texture of the fabric, but I could live without the rest of the line.
Edit: I hadn’t heard about the Djerf Ave controversy thing. Ugh.
I love my Christy Dawn "dawn dress". They offer it in petite sizing which is perfect for me. BUT the price for what it is... a simple (but well made) cotton dress is just too high. And I know they are ethical etc. but even for that it is way too expensive. So I will have it in my closet for a long time but will not purchase more stuff from them. Maybe secondhand 🤷♀️
Edit: I just saw they have an own preloved section, with really good prices, Love that, but sadly only for US
I agree on Sandro and Maje… rubbish materials for high prices. I do like Me and Em, although sometimes their fabrics are not great quality for the prices they charge.
Yeah I would definitely buy from Me and Em again, although some of their stuff seems a bit dated to me at times.
OMG so true about Me and Em. I have 3 of their pieces - a lovely cotton summer blouse and 2 terrible quality knit pieces. One had the hem fall down during my first wear and the cardigan I bought has a cheapo droopy button band. Looks like an H & M piece quite honestly. As a Canadian it isn't feasible to do returns owing to the return postage costs - so I have to be really careful about online shopping. I was seduced by the first purchase and disillusioned by my second. Never again. Way too expensive for so-so quality. I was also surprised for the prices charged to have the pieces just dumped into a cheap plastic shipping envelope to emerge crumpled and very unloved looking.
I discovered sezane this year and I return major of the items I ordered. I would like to try rosae paris but for the price. Idk.😢
I understand, Rosae Paris do have a sale sometimes so maybe wait until then and see if anything you like gets reduced? :)
I was just over there on the Rosae website - and I was super disappointed by their fibre composition trickery. Taking a page from Sezane, it appears that different colours may be made of different fibres so you have to click on composition every single time. E.g., they have 2 lovely *looking* chocolate brown sweaters that are made of a dog's breakfast of fibres, but other colours (often sold out) seem to have been 100% wool - or a blend of wool and cashmere. I can't tell you how much I hate that sort of nonsense. I wish that we could just rely on retailers to be both honest and consistent.
Another great french brand I recommend is APC 🥰
Reformation is fantastic
Their clothes are pretty but way too much viscose for the prices they are charging
What about Hobbs?
Never tried them!
Rouje to me is expensive polyester/viscose for price of silk. I had to pause your video to go to their website and see that red dress and guess what, it’s not silk for 230$! I like overall their vintage designs but not the materials.
Doen to me is hit or miss. I feel that lots of their designs are very pointless or very basic at very very high prices. I fell in love with their lingerie but it’s frustrating how most are out of stock! I love a curated collection but not that curated. Let’s say, I don’t get the hype with them overall, but would buy a piece or two that I absolutely happen to love.
Uniqlo, I also don’t understand the hype. 🤷🏻♀️ I like my basics to be a bit more elevated. I guess I would only get some of their thermal wear but even that is not in natural fabrics. So I’ll rather go with merino wool instead.
Duoboots to me can do no wrong! I finally was able to get some high quality leather boots that actually FIT my small calf as I hate the ‘oversize’ floppy trend. I like their design actually and that they go classic instead of following trends. Classic is never dated.
Lilysilk, I am on the fence for now. I bought a red silk dress from them as I was very disappointed with Quince ones but let’s say I wasn’t too impressed either. It is not lined and has a leg opening that is going way to high up my hip which is very unflattering. I would definitely have to have that closed if I want to wear it. They conveniently didn’t photograph their model from that side on their website.
Sezane, all the pieces I bought from them (all in 100% or close natural fibers) whether they are dresses, shirts, pants, belts and especially knitwear were impeccable. And I absolutely love the designs. They are a brand where I have a long wish list.
Songmont, I would not repurchase though I am tempted with the red tofu bag. I bought the Chocolate bag in Mocha and it arrived in Vanilla. It looks gorgeous on the website but felt very plasticky and cheap like it was from Target.
And you forgot Fabrique, for which I have to thank you for the recommendation! I bought a gorgeous wool coat I am happy with and the most impeccable stitched wool pants. I wish the prices would be lower and more items in natural fibers.
M&S is hit or miss to me. Though I have a red velvet kitten heel shoes that I bought with 5$ years ago! They are still going strong and my favorite occasion shoes.
O my bag amsterdam have lovely bags. I have a bag from there and love it
My local Target is selling M&S Christmas tins with cookies and tea this winter. Until watching this I thought this was just a food brand.
Ahh M&S sell a bit of everything in the UK! Homeware too
Fun video!
glad you enjoyed it!
My demellier Bag has good quality. I think Cos doesn’t really fit your style. I started to buy there some months ago and I am obsessed now. My most favourite brand is still Sézane. I buy so much there. Second place is cos and Massimo Dutti but I also like buying HM.
&other stories, COS and Arket are all owned by H&M...
Yes, true!
How about Me+Em? A British brand and I love them!
Omg forgot to include them!! They’d definitely be in ‘would buy’
@ great video!
@@BonnieLiebthank you!! ❤
I love cos and uniqlo. The heatteach and the puffer jacket from Uniqlo are my Go-to Tiemann I don‘t have a feminin style so I agree with a comment. I think Cos doesn‘t fit your style.
Perhaps an unpopular opinion, but Sézane feels incredibly overhyped and overpriced. The quality is underwhelming, and much like Djerf Avenue leans on the "Scandi" aesthetic, Sézane capitalizes on a heavily romanticized version of the French aesthetic. However, this style is often unflattering on most people. Their marketing and styling reflect a version of French fashion that likely only exists in the imagination of non-French audiences.
Sézane is just so disappointing. They had a good thing going and they've ruined it. M & S- I ordered a summer skirt from them and the fabric was some of the cheapest fabric I've ever seen. It was very much like a plastic garbage bag of a skirt. I won't buy clothing from them again. One order and I'm done with that brand. It shouldn't be so difficult to find quality clothing but it is these days!
Totally agree with you!
One of your best videos. Sezane has lost everything for me. Mass consumption.
Thank you very much Katie for sharing this lovely video and your honest unreserved opinions. I’ve discovered a few new brands in this video. I’ve just checked Christy Dawn but not sure if I would buy from them considering their price range and material, but some clothings do look stunning. I’ve been buying from Sezane for only about 1 year and half but I can definitely feel the declining of their quality and customer services, needless to say the price of a lot of their items have gone up to a point that are not worth the quality and material anymore. I feel like the price of their archive clothings are more realistic. I’ll definitely be more cautious buying from them in the future. The only thing I like Sezane the best is their free return service, but I also feel that many people have been taking advantage of that. I do believe one significant reason that Sezane has consistently raised their price was because of the raising international shipping costs, especially for long distance shipping such as to the North America and Australia. I feel like Sezane has been expanding too rapidly in the most recent years and the brand has become more controversial, but unfortunately it seems like this is non-stopping. I also like some smaller Parisian brands such as Rosae, Curling, Balzac…but they don’t offer free returns, and the return shipping costs is daunting. I’ve been watching your video for a year and I love the content you share. Merry Christmas Katie 🎉
Totally agree with you! Thank you so much for watching, I really appreciate your support
Let’s not praise wool too much. It often involves harming animals, even killing them, and there are other natural fabrics that can replace wool easily.
I agree abt djerf ave. Garbage
I love cos and uniqlo. The heatteach and the puffer jacket from Uniqlo are my Go-to Tiemann I don‘t have a feminin style so I agree with a comment. I think Cos doesn‘t fit your style.