Hey all! I wanted to pin a comment addressing some of the criticism I’ve seen regarding my comments on influencer gifting. I totally understand how it comes across as hypocritical that I complain about influencer gifting in one breath and then get upset that they’ve never reached out to me. Am I slightly salty about this? Absolutely haha. Is it hypocritical? Maybe! I think the point I was trying to make, which I could have articulated better, was that if they are going to use influencers to market their product, why not include the people who have been reviewing their clothing (myself, Mila and the many others) for years, free of charge, rather than micro-influencers who have never spent their own money on clothing from the brand? Hopefully it’s obvious that I really do love and wear the brand, whether they choose to work with me or not, and in my opinion, they are missing a trick by not acknowledging our reviews as a way to incorporate a more authentic, genuine form of influencer marketing. I appreciate all your comments and thoughts on this video, it’s been so interesting to read all of your perspectives and experiences ❤
the whole idea of influencer marketing is to get more people who might be interested in your product to know about your brand. if you already use your platform to "promote" them there's no need for them to spend additional money on giving their clothes to you. it's more logical to go to a creator who has large following but hasn't posted anything about the brand yet. that's just business
Yes, obviously. But it’s not just about awareness. People trust my reviews as I’ve been doing them for 3 years, unsponsored. I have an audience that knows I know sézane, and will buy off of my recommendation. A large influencer may introduce lots of new people to the brand, doesn’t mean that will convert to sales.
My thoughts are that the lack of gifting is not about you, but your followers. You make excellent, very popular review videos about the brand and they know your followers come to the channel to see your Sezane videos and are already established fans of the brand. They’re reaching out to the influencers who don’t wear Sezane and even some whose style doesn’t even look Sezane-like to try to get those followers turned on to the brand. While it makes sense from an advertising viewpoint, it does make me sad that legitimate fans of the brand such as yourself don’t get gifted the allowance if they’re going to spend that money to influencers anyway.
You're absolutely right about Sezane moving at a fast-fashion kind of pace! The number of collections and drops has NOTHING to do with sustaiability. I'm afraid it's one of those brands who forgot about their ideals when they started making really good money...
Just because they drop more stuff doesn’t mean you need to buy it. You need a black dress, you buy one black dress that’s good quality and will last a while.
Yep, the quality has dropped significantly over the years. I just bought their latest Adele, in silk, in the Palomba print. Lovely dress, fits well and on first inspection seemed very well made. However, the damn buttons are too small for the buttonholes - and being covered in silk doesn't help. So when I wore it to work yesterday the bust and bottom 3 buttons kept popping open through the most mundane use. I'm an office worker, not an aerobics instructor. I should be able to sit typing or walk to the water fountain and not have the buttons pop. I've decided to just repair the way too big buttonholes myself but boy am I annoyed. This should have been caught in the design process and I shouldn't have to waste my time on this.
I love Sezane and won't be breaking up with them anytime soon. That said, as a size 14 Aus woman, I cannot buy anything of theirs without seeing larger women try the item online. I have also learned to be very vigilant when it comes to fabric composition and will not purchase their items unless its majority natural fibers. In terms of influencer gifting - I just can't help but think that if they can afford to be gifting sooooo much product, how much is what I'm paying for quality product? And how much is just funding their gifting? It definitely cheapens the brand in my eyes.
Poor quality work and materials seems to be a problem with many clothing brands that used to do better....when you buy a well made piece from even 10 or 15yrs ago the difference is noticeable.
Absolutely! I have had some Mango, Zara and H&M pieces from over a decade ago that are still impeccable, nowadays the quality is so horrible I wouldn't set foot in their stores if they paid me. Sezane is heading in the same direction + it's a lot more expensive to begin with and I highly doubt they will lower their prices to fast fashion level.
I’m sick of influencers. While I understand they want to make money for their time and effort to make their videos it’s gone overboard. It makes me question the credibility.
😅 I get it. I do think there’s a way to do sponsorships ethically, but a lot of influencers get drawn in by the money. I recently saw an influencer I’ve followed for years do a Temu sponsorship and was shocked - had to unfollow at that point.
The thing with vinted is that from my own experience, a large portion of those offered pieces are scams. Untrustworthy people have realised that sezane goes for large money, and they're taking advantage of that
Yes this is a really good point! Its such a shame that Vinted refuse to do anything about this. I don’t understand why, when you know what you’re looking for, these scams are super easy to spot. However every time I’ve tried to report one to Vinted, they say they can’t do anything because the post doesn’t violate their t&c’s - it’s madness.
@@mm1234bb the ones I've seen the username will be something like 'becsa39495953' and they will have no reviews and only one item available. This is different to regular people selling fake Sézane, which may be harder to spot, but try comparing the care label to a real Sézane care label and they are usually different.
I actually found your channel because I was searching for Sezane bag reviews and I've since watched ALL your Sezane videos (and a lot of other ones too). I found your videos so helpful because you were showing Sezane products on a 'regular' body which was much more helpful to me than the thin, tall models they use on their website. So I completely agree that it's really bizarre that you haven't been approached for PR items. TOTALLY agree that lack of diversity of body types on their product photos and IG hashtags are not only poor from a PR point of view, but actually make it really hard for the vast majority of women to buy from them. Being nowhere near a Sezane store, I rely purely on purchasing online and I often don't purchase because I can't work out whether the item will look good on me- the photos don't show the product clearly, they're just a series of stylised model shots which aren't actually all that useful. Contrast this to, say, Everlane who use a diverse range of models AND clearly show studio shots (is that what they're called?) of the items so you can clearly see it's shape and details, AND provide measurements of the garment itself- Sezane need to up their game. I still love Sezane because of their aesthetic but purchasing from them is a rare event for me (unfortunately!).
I bought a tank top from Everlane that looked totally different on me than it did on the model online. I’m a former model and haven’t gained weight since my last jobs, so I went to the website to look again at the top. Looking at the collarbone and neck area, I realized that it was being modelled by a guy. Men and women are built differently. This isn’t “inclusivity” it’s stupid and it needs to stop.
I’m embarrassed to say that I have been selling almost all my Sézane pieces on Vinted. I am at a cross roads in my life in terms of my wardrobe and what I miss to create my outfits. I’ve also been influenced to purchase items because they looked good on a creator but do not fit in my own style. I have also noticed that Sézane’s quality has decreased recently. I bought a classic Milo bag in burgundy and when it arrived it was not in pristine condition. The protective film had been taken off the hardware and it had no pouch. For the money I paid, I found this unacceptable.
I'm so glad to read this only because I thought I was the only one! The classic smooth burgundy Milo was my first Sezane purchase and I bought it because I was happily influenced by Katie here and I LOVE the bag, but mine also arrived in the same condition, with half of the plastic removed and it had kind of like what seemed like handprints or something on it.I'm not even sure, and just thrown in the box. I was so frustrated because I've been dealing with this kind of service from quite a few different companies lately and I just decided to keep it and not say anything. I was especially concerned that if I returned it they would run out of stock and then not restock until fall or never again, which has happened to me with other companies A LOT lately,. Also I'm in the US. So I kept it but I'm not happy about that experience. Pissed in fact to be honest but I wanted that color and finally got it. Did you return or exchange yours?
It was the same when I bought my CLaude bag and i resold it on Vinted just the other day as the bag seemed scratched for the price. When i asked the sales girl she said it’s natural to occur to leather bags…I have sold it and also bought another bag from polene that seems to be much better quality.
I bought Sezane because of you and Mila!! I thought you were being paid by the brand. I am very disappointed that the brand doesn't support such good content as yours. Please, share with us other brands with good quality and style. Also, it is time for Sezane to fix the itchiness problem of most of its knitwear.
Yes, it's annoying when some influencers get a lot of PR deals and gifts while others do not. Influencer marketing is not bad in and of itself, but it's definitely unfair when more thoughtful content creators and actual customers of the brand get overlooked.
No, not done with Sezane! I still love the majority of my existing pieces and no doubt will buy more when I see something I want, but I do shop from a wider range of brands now, and tend to buy fewer clothes overall x
Totally agree with this video!! I became obsessed with Sezane maybe 2 years ago and bought a bunch of stuff, but I am petite and a lot of their clothes are hard to pull off. I’ve started focusing on just buying layering basics from them, they’re usually good for good quality layering pieces.
Dear Katie, I am really glad that you made this honest critical video! Myself recognized that they use more and more synthetic fibers, for example the summer top Francisco has 20 % polyamide and other brands still have 100 % cotton for a lower price point. As a mid size woman I really appreciated your Sézane content which helped me with the purchase choice but I totally agree that at some point we need to slow down in purchasing new items and first enjoying the ones that we have - myself I have 90 items of Sézane so I definitely need to slow down now 😅 Great idea of introducing small brands, please some with a sustainable way and high quality, so 100 % cotton, merino wool, cotton / wool blend, real leather etc. Have a great weekend Katie!
I had this on in the background while obsessively refreshing the Archives which I'm sure is a sign of some kind of madness. So many Hard Sames on this one! Love your content.
First of all the absolute surprise of seeing my little face in the video made my day 😆 second of all the video is really great, i enjoyed how clear and considerate you were with your thoughts. I'm not sure if this is the case for you, but I can also see how small creators get the most views and engagement from Sézane videos so "breaking up" could be quite tricky. I have also been SO BOTHERED by the single type of body they choose to show (both in models and in their instagram) and it just perpetuates this sense that midsize women apperently do not exist... Anyways, wish you a happy weekend!
Same thing happened to Reformation few years ago. I have 2 Sezane pieces from maybe 3-4 years ago and really liked some of their recent knits. I’m still happy with what I received can’t find pretty knitwear at similar price point in EU. I can’t knit or sew or crochet, but one day I’ll learn all these techniques and some more mending too and I’m just gonna make everything 🥺
Not to be a jerk, but I think nearly everything about Sezane has been outdated for a while. Not just their marketing and fast fashion approach, but their styles. It’s like 80s mall clothing styles for the last 5 years or so. Very heavy looking large prints. I bought a lot of Sezane when they first opened and have bought almost nothing in the past five years. It’s a shame because they started as a special company and really went downhill. I also agree the influencer marketing is a turnoff. It makes me NOT want to buy from companies that do that.
Omg yes! I just don’t buy their whole “French girl” marketing hype. It’s more like Free People hippies boutique than anything to do with French. Trying too hard. Their cut is awful; most pieces fit like a sack with no curves. I don’t know how these influencers can rave about it ignoring those basic facts. It seems to fit a lot of people’s fantasized version of “French style”.
Their style completely changed from before and after the pandemic. Before the pandemic, their clothes had a vintage aesthetic, were almost always natural fabrics, and were feminine, sophisticated, and slightly sexy. Now I find their items at a strange crossroad between being sickly sweet with too many ruffles or oversized and shapeless. And like others, I'm so done with all their viscose and polyester, especially given the ENORMOUS price increases. They've lost all integrity.
yes, half of their stuff is actually very frumpy and ugly and looks like it's from 90s catalogue. They do have some beautiful stuff too but yeah... lot of it looks like cheap fast fashion
And yes, the "you wear it best" carousel is so annoying I've stopped clicking it open. The women all look like the Sezane models and yes, in addition to all being young, thin and model-gorgeous - you never see anyone at the shorter end. Apparently the average height of women in North America is 5'4" but I feel like I've never or rarely seen anyone in that carousel who is my height. I mean it's not like I can't figure out that a maxi style that's long on the model will not work for me - but it does make me feel like I'm just not a demographic that Sezane is interested in.
The average height for a US woman is 5’4”, my height. Sezane’s items are ridiculously long and big (in the shoulders, etc.) for us. Their open-neck items also show everything down to my waist! Sadly, the average US woman is now a size 16, nothing for them there!
Thank you for being so honest !! Totally agree with this issue. I have reached out to said “influencers” that show huge hauls that “they paid with their own money” and asked them about VAT charges to the US for orders (which I paid for exorbitantly for just two dresses about 2 years ago--and have never attempted to shop since) and could never get a straight answer from anyone…so sad. Otherwise a beautiful brand that ultimately is just cashing in any which way it can as is the norm these days.
I only just started purchasing from the brand last autumn and bought quite a few pieces, but then without warning the prices were increased by a minimum of $15 and as much as $25. Sézane was already pricey, but after the increase, I slowed down and then stopped buying anything because I could not justify spending $215 + 13% tax on a simple T-shirt dress. Recently I have noticed how frequently they have been releasing new items and have also noticed the increased use of synthetic fibres. One thing that puts me off about the brand is how they push the idea of scarcity. For example, when there’s a new release you should be on their website first thing in the morning to ensure you get the items you liked in the lookbook because they’ll sell out. The same applies to the archive sales. Yet, if you look out long enough, they almost always end up restocking items. And if they can roll out so many collections, why can’t they keep all of their jeans stocked throughout the year? It really bothers me that they consistently post videos of their models wearing tops from newer collections with jeans you can no longer find online.
Yes I also noticed a price hike across the board in recent months. Given the prices are already higher in AUD than in Euros when you do the conversion, I find this increase to be quite unfair.
Completely agree with a lot of the assertions here! These days I shop Sezane items from Vinted first and only buy full price from Sezane if I can’t find them there and only if they are in natural fibres. Might shop their Archives tomorrow though 😋
Many thoughts: 1) I’ve spent a lot of money on Sezane over the years influenced to buy. I have kept almost nothing, in part due to the use of synthetic fibers on the linings. 2) the only sezane item I current have is a white Conrad t shirt that they embroidered without my consent “happy” yuck and I’ve worn about 10 times before it got a hole in the armpit. 3) the turn into fast fashion is obvious and I’m glad you’re speaking about it. 4) as a mid to plus size woman I consistently feel bad about my body when I’ve shopped online or their clothing in store.
Thanks for posting this as this really resonates with what I have been noticing about the polyester materials, frequent drops, and quality issues. They also don’t carry petite sizes so I avoid their pants and jeans anyway. Thanks for speaking out.
Amazing video Katie! I started shopping Sezane 3 years ago and have noticed a change in the number of drops and quality of fabrics in that short time and have felt it start leaning towards a fast fashion business model but I didn't want to admit it. I enjoy the brand but I'm not obsessed with it and specifically look for their sustainable fabrics when shopping (most of the time). I agree with everything you have said and thank you for packing it up in such a concise and thorough presentation. BTW, love your hair!!!
Completely agree with all of your points! I’m genuinely shocked they have never approached you. Your reviews are so thorough and honest (I adore them).
Katie, thx for being honest & candid--partly why I watch you. I have classic & beautiful pieces from 4-5yrs ago. All keepers. I do NOT buy anything made in China (more of their pieces now/likewise all of Goellia!) and quality with mostly natural fibers are a must. I actually like to see their pieces on various influencers so I can better idea of fit, etc. But I do find the quantity of released collections is a huge concern re quality. Love your vids!
I’ve been buying from Sezane since 2016, only a few pieces a year (3-4) till this year when I went mental probably because there was so much of my style in the collections. I don’t like their new approach of releases coming out every other week nor am I happy about their huge amount of free stuff for influencers. I haven’t experienced any quality issues myself, everything has been high standard, no bad stitching etc. at this point, I feel they are my brand for my style but that can easily change. But I really don’t need anything else so I don’t intend to buy much more this year as I think I have an amazing wardrobe now that I can’t wait to wear. I think we as consumers need to make them slow down again. Am I shopping the archives tomorrow? Maybe I will have a look but am not in need of anything
I haven't finished watching, but you just got me a bit emotional on the part where you talk about never having been gifted any items from Sezane. I've been following you for so long, and I can assure you that your candour and openness to be critical about whatever you're showing us is what makes us trust you and keep coming back to your videos. Thank you for this honest and very well-articulated video. As someone who is also done with Sezane, I really appreciate this. It seriously bothers me that they keep marketing themselves as a conscious brand, when they're so clearly failing on so many fronts.
I personally haven't noticed a decline in quality per se but I don't like the amount of polyester and viscose they're using lately. I recently bought the Dorotha dress in the italian lemon print but I decided to return it because the material wasn't amazing and 160€ for viscose is too much. A couple of years ago I bought the same dress (I don't recall if it was called Dorotha back then as well) and it was cheaper AND made of silk.
Exactly this. The poppy+dots version of the Dorotha is beautiful as well, but the viscose seemed uneven and strangely papery? Don't know, but I sent it back as faulty. And own 2 silk versions that are just sooo much more beautiful to the touch. Also most of it isn't lined anymore. Which is a no-go for me.
I actually completely agree with you. I discovered Sézane a year and a half ago and I still saw the decrease in quality. I was also chocked by the huge price increase they did this winter. Now I'm at the point where I'm buying all my wishlist before they increase their prices again but my wallet has been safe with the spring and summer collections...
Just went to Vinted and see 500+ results, but when you scroll throgh, it's mostly the free bags and scarves. Also, people resell all the time, so the amount of items that are on the 2nd hand market isn't an indictment of a brand's quality. I don't get the complaints about influencers receiving free clothing. It's no different than celebrities wearing sponsored stuff. I also noticed that you spent more time talking about influencer gifting than the other points, which is curious. Anyway, it's a French brand. Unfortunately, Sezane is ahead of the curve for even going above a FR38. Their main client base is in France, so the cuts, material, price point and marketing will be French. I agree on the polyester.
I'm not done with Sézane, but I've been more discerning since last year. I try to only buy natural materials and try to limit the amount I purchase, as I was returning or reselling quite a few due to size issues. I agree with several of your points especially on the use of synthetics and influencer marketing. Part of the issue, I think, has been when they started selling parts of the company to PPE firms. While Morgane still owns the majority, I feel there's a clear push toe and increase revenu limit costs (less quality control and more use of cheap fabrics).
I am a Sezane junkie: I am learning French with UA-cam and all the French influencers just talk about Sezane. Also: I am Portuguese (yay! from Lisbon) and big part of their pieces are Portuguese craft 😎. And I really want to support designs that go further than the Zara and H&M mainstream. This being said: you and Mila in New York are my Sezane oracles and is OUTRAGEOUS you not receiving a full Sezane wardrobe to review. Couldn’t care less for the skinny-boring-cookiecut influencers that Sezane gifts: lazy choice from Sezane marketing team. But, hey!, for sure they will see this video and start to work better. And send you and Mila a lot of pieces to review.
Unfortunately, you're absolutely right about them moving at a fast-fashion pace! I remember it was so rare and SUPER precious to "succeed" and buy an item :D I agree about declining quality as well :((( The only thing: gifts are really randomly placed in the packages because I have no followers on any social media platform and I got their gifts several times. It's too sad
Hi Katie, I’m still a fan but I absolutely agree with most of the criticism in this video. I can’t say I’ taking a step back from them, but I haven’t really been so interested lately and I’ve been feeling overwhelmed.
It’s definitely overwhelming, ironically one of the reasons I fell in love with Sezane originally was because I didn’t feel overwhelmed with constant newness from them. I loved that I new all the names of their styles and there wasn’t loads of excess. How times have changed…
Yes! Totally agree. The quality has changed, as has the 'feeling' of the brand. I am hoping to find brands with the range in sizes, ethically made and feminine! What a shame - have loved Sezane for a few years.
This is crazy I just barely decided to give Sezane a try with the Scott trench and the Beautiful burgundy Milo, but I had been seeing a number of influencers talk about them the past 5 years, like Dearly Bethany, and Erin Busbee being some of the firsts for me. That said, I never gave them a look and when I did finally look at their clothes, I really wasn't impressed. Probably because I have a huge wardrobe already and should not be looking lol, but I've been seeing all of these Reddit pages and things that you're talking about and when I was, you were the first person that came to my mind and I thought, I wonder what her feelings are about this topic? And here you are ;) I just commented on someone else's post here about the classic Milo in smooth burgundy that you had bought which turned me on to it. When it arrived it also was missing half of the plastic and it had like handprints or smudges in it or on it and it seemed like somebody was in such a hurry they just threw it in the box and sent it. It did have the dust bag but I was completely disappointed and pissed off. I only kept it because I was afraid it would run out of stock and they wouldn't restock it until the fall or possibly never and so I just kept it but I'm not happy about it at all. I absolutely loved the Scott trench but I did return it because even size zero was too big for me. I've been on the hunt still for a trench and I'm currently considering one from Mango that I just received yesterday... but as far as Sezane is concerned, I'll likely not be purchasing anything else from them again unless it's a handbag I really want. That said, if the quality is subpar, I will return it and I will rant about it so that they have no question about my disappointment. Last thing I want to say is I agree with the frustration of how much free gifting goes on with all influencers.. Lately it seems that every time I'm looking to purchase something in a handbag that I've been debating about spending money on, I go to watch reviews on it and find that person saying I was pleasantly surprised to be gifted this bag and the one that I've been seeing it with the most lately has been Atelier Auguste. I know you did a video for them recently and I don't remember if they gifted you one but it wouldn't annoy me if it was you with 13k following and so much work put into your videos to help us in deciding on items. They're giving them to people who have those giant handbag collections behind them with like 50 Birkins and Chanel's. When it happens to someone that I feel does not have an exorbitant collection like that it, it actually kind of makes me happy. So they are having the opposite effect on people and I agree with everyone's comments here on Lily silk. I don't really want to buy from them anymore. :(
Dear Katie, thank you for this honest review. I just came across Sézane and have purchased a few pieces to built a capsule wardrobe. I live in Germany and people here are selling their pieces on vinted too, but not a lot. I noticed that these are often pieces from special collaborations. I think people are ordering without really considering if this will contribute to their style. I personally only order clothes from natural fabric from them and pieces I know are timeless and in my colour season. By doing that there were a couple of pieces I liked, but did not buy based on my standards. I also got really confused about the amount of launches they do and I think that's were people get intrigued to buy more than they acually want or need. So far, everything I have ordered has a great quality and I am very happy with my pieces (only clothes). I think as a customer we can have a big influence, if we fir example don't buy synthetic fibers or overall slow down, so hopefully thei will react to it.
Hello Katie, I think you do the best sezane reviews. And I'm glad you still will do some sezane reviews. I notice the change of quantity and qualitiy, too. I find their amount of new drops stressful and it is not what it used to be. I loved your videos about style (using clothes you already purchased) and the videos that introduced us to smaller brands like Pink City Prints. I'd love to see a video about your holiday capsule.❤
Hi! I had a couple items on my wishlist (sandals & bag) and your video makes me look elsewhere! I also would have never put Anna Edit and Sezanne in the same sentence so I don’t understand what they are after- other than the following size. I’ve seen so many of your Sezane reviews and always considered you were in some sort of partnership with them! Actually disappointed they never reached out to you. Thanks for the video and let’s all take our hard worked money elsewhere 👏🏻👏🏻
I have to admit I’ve not bought anything from sezane since last year, and if I check in now and then I just don’t see anything for me. I am loving nobody’s child, i’m actually currently wearing the same dress as you but in Navy and it’s the comfiest thing. ☺️✌️
Oh my gosh so I stumbled upon Nobody’s Child a few months ago and thought the website looked great and the clothes were so cute (although not too happy with the vague green washing) and I am around 5’1 so was excited to get some pieces. Well quite disappointed with their quality now and the returns process. Sizing is completely off. Like 2-3 sizes off. Shrinkage, buttons flying off, no lining. Less and less petite pieces. I do hope they improve (at the moment I have a summer midi dress and a mini skirt from them). Have you been happy with them so far? Never see anyone else talking about this brand
@@Juliette5044 Aw really, that's rubbish. I'll have to see how mine hold up after a few washes 😨I've just got the navy dress in cotton and a white shorter one and I'm really pleased with them for the price & it's nice to see a brand doing these styles in cotton for a ok price point, but I can't say I've experienced a variety of things from them. I'mm 5'6 and the long dress is midaxi length on me, so definitely not petite length. Katie did a video on a few brands recently there's definitely some more erthical ones in the mix. I do think it could be hit and miss at Nobody's Child as even on the website a few things looked a bit poorer quality. I since saw that they sell on Asos and Next which I'm not sure is great re greenwashing.
Completely agree. I unfollowed them on IG about a year ago because I felt like their content was excessive and I was so sick of seeing so many influencers wearing the same pieces.
Thank you, Katie, for such a great and insightful video. I cannot believe they have never reached out to you! That is very disheartening. I still love Sézane but have really identified which types of clothing of worth it, and which to avoid. Definitely not a sustainable brand given all the drops they have. I also can't keep up anymore! This actually makes it easier for me to be turned off from buying.
I’ve been considering buying some summer pieces from this brand as I’ve been seeing so many ads and they looked cute … but after seeing your video I think I won’t 🤷🏻♀️
I started buying from Sezane at the end of 2021. Honestly, I am pretty picky and choosy with their pieces and materials but I do have Sezane to thank for finally having my dream wardrobe. Sezane has gotten me to a place where I don’t need to look for new pieces. Sure there is a dress or top that I’m still on the lookout for, but no rush. I have all I need from Sezane now and my shopping has honestly slowed to a halt because of them. I also simply just stopped shopping from other brands since Sezane has helped me achieve closet peace.
I agree with this video I always check the fabric and I refuse to buy polyester at this price and I think there is too much collection it's alsmot like zara but I still love the brand and hope they will change in the futur I'll buy again only with good fabrics and keep them onmy if the quality seems good ❤
I discovered sezane during lockdown and loved looking at their look books! Realistically it is probably out of my price range, justified them as investments because they were supposedly good quality and classic pieces but they haven’t lasted as well and I think this is down to fabrics, I’ve since sold items on vinted. What really turned me away is how tired they looked after a couple hand washes, how often the drops are and how intense the online community felt for me personally. I found myself feeling like I *needed* to get certain pieces due to hype and how fast you have to be on their website it felt. There’s too many drops to keep up with now 😅 I’ll admire from afar
I've never bought there so I don't have any strong opinions, but one of the things that kind of discourages me from buying there is the marketing. By that I mean mentioning that it's #frenchgirl all the time. "All the parisian women wear that" and stuff like that. I know it's a type of aesthetic, but I just find if very try-hard. Using French phrases in an otherwise English text makes me cringe. I'm not trying to cosplay a French person, I just want nice clothes lol. I'm pretty sure the actual French girls with a good style don't have to scream they're parisian all the time. It's tacky imo.
I have been a customer of Sezane for at least 5 years and have spent an absolute fortune - I have had free delivery for quite some time. I still like the brand but am definitely buying more cautiously and look at the composition before purchase. I won't buy any synthetic fibres. I have recently purchased from Balzec Paris which I have been quite impressed with. Balzec retail at a slighter higher price point than Sezane but materials are of a better quality.
Agree, I don’t love that their quality has gone down so much. I used to only buy silk there but I barely see silk items now? Most of the dresses and skirts are viscose. I also kind of hate that they are paying so many influencers to get clothes. Like all over tiktok you have girls who get a monthly Sezane spending credit. Then most of those items are not available. Why bother? Why not invest in some good size inclusive marketing? And good point on them not being slow fashion anymore. I wish they focused more on basics and standard items. And also most of collabs are really flashy or poor quality. It’s disappointing. That being said, their sweaters and some of their workwear (two pieces) are some of the best you can get for the money… at least in Europe. I’ve been living in the US for the last 3 years and Sezane feels more expensive there somehow. Since moving back to Europe I’ve made a few orders and I have returned about 70% of the stuff I ordered. I found myself keeping the simple easy basics only. And I don’t know if anyone has noticed but the items girls online rewear from Sezane are usually sweaters, silk shirts, maybe jeans or shoes? It’s never items from the flashy multiple drops.
I’m surprised they have not approached you by the way, exactly because I’ve seen really small creators on tiktok, and those so called reviews are useless. I agree with you that you are doing the work for free and you are incredibly honest…which is why I love your channel.
Omg, the spotlighting of discontinued items drives me nuts. The first, red Etia dress was shown with the model wearing Paula babies in that deep purply red that was *already* sold out, never to return. I checked with Sezane and they were like, "nope maybe you can get a return." But they'd already been sold out for ages- no chance of a return. I mean why. on. earth. would you style up a shoot with pieces your customers cannot buy? Like you said, why bother? And instead of indulging a handful of select influencers I'd *way* prefer if they'd reward their loyal customers once in a while - and I don't mean sticking another flimsy beach bag into my order either. What happened to the annual $20 discount?
I agree 💯 with your comments: 1) they are now doing waay too many weekly drops its impossible to follow or keep up which strongly suggests a switch to a fast fashion mindset 2) The summer drops are at a price point which is crazy for some basic styles. 3) The clothes are mostly for tall people- always ridiculously long (most dresses and trousers won’t fit petites). 4) the sweaters are beautiful but there is now a lack of natural fibers and quite a lot are itchy and difficult to wear on bare skin.
I've only been buying from Sézane since January when I found your channel. While I found many pieces I was interested in at that time, the summer collection is hugely disappointing to me... although very pretty to look at on the website. Where would anyone wear 3/4 of the items they're selling? It seems like they don't have a strong concept/foundation as a brand and they seem to have questionable ethics. All of this really shows up by having spring/summer collections that aren't reminiscent of what they produce in fall/winter. The lack of mid-size/plus size models is also truly disappointing. It seems like once they started making more and more money, the brand as a whole really deteriorated. That's usually a sign that a brand is on a decline or about to be.
Thank you for this Katie, you are absolutely right. I have decreased my spending at Sezane, only go for some basic pieces and form time to time an interesting shirt..looking for more sustainable brands.
I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on these items 😊 If Emile doesn’t work for you the Louis cardigan also comes in the Burgundy colour and is merino and very soft with no itchyness at all.
I have been purchasing Sezane for 5 years or so. I agree that I’m more of a fall/winter buyer and their spring/summer collections just don’t interest me. I will say that the knits I have from the past year or two are beautiful. I was recently looking to add a piece and when I went into the description I was shocked to see it made in China! I haven’t given up on the brand but I will be very careful researching the item before it goes into my cart. Also, I just received the gray Gabin bag and I’m very pleased with it. Lastly, the gifting to “influencers” is a real turnoff to me and I wish companies would stop doing it. Thanks for your video!!
Bravo Katie👏🏼!! Well said. I stand by you in all your assertions, and, like you, I plan to be more conscientious in supporting brands that strive to be ethical and sustainable by using more natural fibers 😉. Love all your videos and deeply appreciate your honesty 🙏🏼❤💞🥰. It’s absolutely refreshing 🤗.
Thank you for saying this ❤. I totally agree with you, what is happening to Sezane? I do love the staple collection and i have only been buying these items this year. I, like you, am also doing a lot of 2nd hand purchasing curating previous collection items which i missed out on at the time which fits more to my aesthetic.
i have to agree with most of what you said in the video. I am a huge fan of Sezane even though they don't necessarily cater for my body type and budget. I own quite few of their items but don't think that quality represents the prices. I haven't bought anything from them in a while and use them more as an inspiration.
Lovely video! A newbie to Sezane over here, just had my first anniversary haha. Last year I've got ridd of a lot of polyester dresses I had from Asos, H&M etc. It was such a shift in consciousness towards what I put on my skin in regards of fabric. I qucikly became abecame HUGE Sezane fan! From last year on I've purchased mostly linen, wool and cotton from them. Most of their polyester and viscose I swipe away. I also do feel within the first year of being a fan, I feel the drops have became more even in the past months. For me personally I'll keep looking out for mostly cotton, linen, wool and maybe silk. I do enjoy their cuts and prints a lot ❤ And am also more of a fall/winter-fan! Please share more Brands like Christy Dawn and Pink City!!
I still really like Sézane, I haven’t had much that has been poor quality apart from a skirt I bout about 6 months ago. It was viscose and I noticed when it was hung up that the front and back length looked a bit uneven and you could see the plain material of on the back. One thing I love is the perfume the size of the bottle was a very generous size easily twice as big. The glass bottle was class. The one I’ve just ordered is tiny compared to the other and the top to the perfume bottle on the new one chipped all around the edge. It’s only a little thing but the older bottle is totally pristine. Wish I could have returned it to have it refilled. Still really like their uniqueness. My new Lucille editions green linen skirt is beautiful. Only ever sold two items. They were lovely but didn’t really suit me. My fault not theirs
Thank you for this video, Katie! I think you highlighted some important and common complaints that I’ve been seeing nowadays, and at the pace they’re going, I doubt they’re going to change things because all companies are profit driven. I’m hoping they hear these growing sentiments and pare back but I’m not holding my breath!
Agree - years ago they had fabulous staple items that were well made and still hang in my wardrobe. Lately, the number of ‘drops’ have been excessive and not of the same quality. Sustainability is one of their key attributes which will make many loyal followers seek alternatives if they continue in the current trajectory…
The amount of influencer gifting that’s happening has made me step back. They did an influencer only popup in Toronto and gifted items. I was so sad to not have the opportunity to shop at a popup and found my Instagram flooded with a brand I had coveted. I selectively shop the natural fibre items only now.
@@katie_louise Isn't it bizarre? They sent a 'Hello Toronto' bag in orders with a code, opened up a pop-up store, and then it was invite only where specified influencers got to pick out a comped sweater. As someone who has traveled internationally to stores (no Cdn stores so far) to shop and paid the crazy prices in Canada (a Betty is $250 CDN) I felt very upset. Clearly their marketing worked because I see Sezane much more in Toronto now... made me very sad as an every day consumer.
I totally agree with you, especially for the hashtag sezane et hope you will continue to discover others brands and talk more of ethical or intentional shopping. Like you, i don't think i will totally break with sezane but i prefer buy basics with natural fibers. Thank you for your videos, i live in Paris ans you re one of my favorite channel for your style and your good vibe !
Hi! I’m discovering your work and content on YT, thank you for the honesty and precise information. I’ve been a faithful client of Sezanés for the last 5 years and I have been disappointed with all of my last purchases. The sizing is very random. The quality of the material and the sewing has lowered tremendously. I find that most items don’t look like the photographs on the website. The colors are often a bit off, less vivid than the photo. The fitting is often disappointing too and I find myself more often than not asking for a tailor to work on the clothes. Which has a cost… Anyways, I don’t get as excited as I would have before, and turn myself to other brands and second hand. Oh I stopped second hand Sezane too. What a scam.
Thanks for sharing your honest perspective on this topic. Having a very Sezane heavy wardrobe, I’ve pulled back over the last 18+ months. Mostly I have the ‘basics’ to build a foundation of button up shirts, some jumpers, some denim, some jackets and coats and shoes. I stick to the natural fiber and leather items. Actively avoid polyester and expensive viscose items. The shoes have been the most disappointing. Nice looking, good construction but not much padding in the footbed and just uncomfortable for longer wear and walking about in the city. I did purchase some items I regret as I don’t wear them and now have been selling them. Have noticed Sezane has become fast fashion over the last several years and their designs are, well boring and a bit out of touch. Their pricing is a bit much for many items. I will still shop but very, very judiciously and few and far between purchases. There aren’t many gaps in my wardrobe and there are other high quality brands that offer more affordable and wearable options
Thank you! You are so right! This is a perfect overview of literally my opinion since a year (I've been a big Sézane fan since 5 years). Just a little note: I'm pregnant at the moment and I'm not able to wear anything the pregnant influencers wear. Sézane is in desperate need of some bigger sized pregnant women too 🙂
Unfortunately agree with you on pretty much everything... Still love Sézane but stay away from unpadded sandals, most jeans and trousers, anything synthetic... Since getting my Ateliers Auguste crossbody and witnessing that quality I also decided I won't be getting any more of their bags, either. I have a mini Milo and a Claude which aren't much cheaper than my AA but are sooo much heavier and have a bunch of useless compartments. I'm keeping them (for now) because they are very beautiful and fill gaps in my colour range but will definitely be checking other Indie brands over Sézane bags in the future. About Vinted, some people just buy very popular pieces to sell them on there for a premium (which I find disgusting btw). I noticed this with the recent Ron top for example, or the Samuel from the winter collection, or their raincoats... And just wait a few days to see aaaaall the bags and belts that have been gone since minute one of the archives on Vinted, too! Thanks for the video! Cheers!
Love this video! I can feel your pain!!! I dislike Sezane’s constant new collections. It’s just too overwhelming because I’d like something and buy it, then one week later a slightly different item is launched. Also dislike the induced scarcity and fear of missing out. That said, I do like sezane still but I’m more careful what I buy. Quality can be good but is now quite random. I also find them now expensive after the price increase in Asia and Australia. So I am pickier with what I keep.
I agree with you, I haven't looked at the lineup of their clothes lately, but the amount of new stuff they throw in twice a week is frightening. Also, for me these clothes (some of them) are too stiff, I don't think it's quality for years, maybe some of their stuff is.
Great breakdown of what has happened with Sezane. You can really tell when private capital came in and immediately started chasing profits and hockey stick growth with these seemingly endless drops and collections while at the same time lowering quality standards. The number of promo emails I get from them on a weekly basis were so overwhelming that I finally had to hit that "unsubscribe" button.
I actually follow influencers to see, which brands gave them the most gifts and then I boycott these brands :D so, influencers are highly informative to me.
yes, all of this! I haven't purchased any Sezane directly form the website this year for the exact reasons you list. When I buy secondhand, I tend to go for the older collections too; I find the quality higher and the aesthetic more timeless. I used to adore Sezane for their unique, yet understated, pieces. It was my to go spot for classic items with an unexpected, often feminine, twist. But I feel like along with the slow fashion principles and quality, they've been abandoning that style as well; moving toward a different vibe all together: much louder, in your face. Not for me. Most of all though, I'm bothered by their FOMO tactics... the more drops I see, the more buzz of items out of stock and consumer despair on FB, of getting up at ungodly hours and being so crushed to miss out, the less desire I have to browse their site.
I started shopping at Sezane this past year, so I’m kinda sad that maybe I’m catching it at a point where it’s starting to decline. I haven’t been disappointed by anything I’ve bought from Sezane yet, but I appreciate your reviews so I can make the informed choice!
You can always find some of their older collection pieces secondhand! The quality is probably still better, even used, than some of the new collection pieces…
Amazing video Katie! So much to unpack here. First of all, I just want to say how great you break it down. Something I would like to highlight in addition to what you’ve already touched on is the location of manufacturing. It’s changed a lot! From locations in Europe to China. The capital of fast fashion. This concerns me a lot. Doesn’t seem very French or sustainable. The second thing I want to point out is that there is so little transparency when it comes to how UA-cam influencing works (as a former influencer). Many viewers assume that if you’re talking about a brand you must have been gifted or sponsored. An influencer will usually call out specifically when a brand has gifted but by law have to say if a brand is sponsoring them. Although the gifting model is annoying for all the reasons you mentioned, I t’s still a form of exchange in payment. So the influencer isn’t really getting anything for free. They are selling the attention of their following for the price of a cardigan. 😂 It appears on the surface that it’s free clothing. Influencers of all sizes have affiliate partnerships now that the kickback is still a win. And even though it was a “free” product the influencer gets clout, perhaps a bit of affiliate income & the brand gets name recognition to a whole new audience. A declining economy, rising cost of goods & production will always hit midsize brands like Sézane the hardest. They are gambling a lot with their future. Look at jcrew & banana republic. Almost all of the stores in the US closed at one point. Sézane has a to strike that perfect balance of being able to grow and support their brand infrastructure & people while profiting & maintaining quality. It’s not an easy task. They’re going through an awkward growth phase right now. Interesting to see what will happen.
I buy what I like and that is almost always the classic, natural fibre items which I’ve had before or had similar before. I still like the quality of their core pieces and they really add to my wardrobe with my existing clothes. The sezane shop is great because I have found they showcase their best items.
The quality depends on the pieces. I found some really and others not so good. I wish they control a bit more carefully their returns. I received some items which have been obviously worn (sweat smell, enlarged, stained with make-up ...)
This was a hard video to see. However, I have to agree with all of your points. I have purchased, for me, a fair amount from Sezane since I discovered them only about a year ago. But most have been their core products. I now own 5 Bettys'. I have been elated since they brought a pop-up store to Washington DC this spring. Finally, I can go and try things I have not ordered online because, as you stated, you can't tell from the website what the items really look like. As for my continuing to buy from Sezane, I will, 16:21 however, it will probably be mostly the tried and true core pieces like I mentioned before. I hope they see the error of their ways, and return to their roots.
Totally agree with you that the frequency of their drops is getting overwhelming. I had to unfollow their Instagram page to not get bombarded by the nonstop content. This quantity over quality mindset definitely caused their quality to go downhill. Another thing that you mentioned which I found interesting is how Sézane is selective about whom they give free stuff to. As a regular customer (aka. not an influencer), I've purchased 5 times from the brand and never received any free gift from them. But a friend of mine received a free gift the first time she purchased a dress from them. I think this is consistent with what they're doing with the influencers about free clothing- they will not give you free stuff if you're already promoting their brand (you making content about them in this case) or if you're already purchasing from them (me as a customer).
Must agree that I have definitely slowed down. Love the classic sweaters but way too many shirts full of frills and large prints my grandma would not have worn. Price increases in Canada also too much. $95 + 13 % tax for a t-shirt! I have also noticed the use of synthetic fabrics and I won't pay Sezane prices for polyester.
I wish you would say exactly what and when they released in one month for example. This is all just not specific. Also about the synthetic material, there is important if it recycled or not. I am vegan and do try for sustainability and I am very happy for coat from recycled polyester from Sezane, for example. It is important to see it all in context and more points of view. Natural materials are “nice” but based on animal cruelty. And not everything could be made of organic cotton. About vinted. I think and saw that lots of people just buy lots on sales and then sell it via for example on vinted for even more that Sezane. It doesn’t mean they all sell just because they are unhappy with it.
I’m not sure what you mean by the first point? Why do I need to list exactly what came out and when - do you honestly expect me to know that? I don’t work for them 😂
I agree completely, I have bought 3 Tabata skirts. I love the fit but 2 of the skirts were unlined. The back seam on the unlined skirts with normal wear and sitting started to pull and fray. The skirts are not too tight, they just need a lining. I feel for 200+ the skirts should be lined. I was able to return the one skirt for a credit which was nice but agree the quality has declined.
I agree with you. The quality has decreased considerably, and some of my shirts' buttons are falling apart. I can't even restitch; the top shiny part came off. It's sad because they used to be so good. I have some money in my Sezane account, but I couldn't find anything worth my money. Everything is so trendy and fast fashion, nothing classic. Sad:(
I would love to find pieces secondhand from Sezane! I don’t used Vinted so I was excited when you mentioned it but the US site only had 135 items available total. I’m new to Sezane and am excited about the brand but I wasn’t around to see the shift in the brand.
I think (correct me if I’m wrong) Vinted is fairly new to the US? It’s been around for quite a few years in the UK so is much more widely used. You might have more luck on poshmark?
I love this video! More people need to see it. I was SO disappointed to find that some "slow fashion" influencers were being gifted Sezane. These same influencers talk about "greenwashing" often but then they themselves are drinking the kool-aid. It does make we want them less. Things also sell out so quickly. Causing high demand. Instead of people making thoughtful choices they just end up buying and returning (again, related to fast fashion). All at the same time as they keep increasing their prices. I will still continue to buy some of their pants (because I'm tall and their pants actual fit lengthwise without hemming, which I can't find elsewhere) but I'll buy them sparingly. I've already found "replacements" for other items.
Totally agree specially the influencers part.... It puts me off every time a brand seems to relly their marketing strategy on "influencer marketing"...
I discovered Sezane about 2 years ago and have since purchased 3 items from them. I have been looking forward to the day i could afford to gradually fill my closet with staples made of quality materials, such as Sezane. I am finally at that place in my life. I have noticed the increase in Sezane locations and assumed this decrease in value was coming. It's such a shame to see a business with ethics i once agreed with go downhill. Im grateful for your channel, and I look forward to other store recommendations. Thank you!
Agree with all of this. Purchased a blouse this year, so pretty but not a natural fabric and it fell apart instantly. Quite a struggle to get a refund and has put me off even though I generally buy a few pieces each year. Also put off by the models, almost impossible to even gauge how things might look on an over 60 mid size person and don’t like to see the lack of natural fibres, particularly in their summer collections
Super interesting video! Strategy from the company is crucial for the Outer Image of the Brand. I personally love the clean aesthetic French style of your videos so I'd definitely make sure you're on their influencers' list....so I definitely agree with your view.
I have been a subscriber to your channel for a few years now, and always enjoy your honest reviews! I cant wait to see what other brands you discover as more sustainable and ethical options. Christy Dawn has been on my radar a while, but with the higher price point and lack of tryons to see online, I have not actually tried them yet. Doen is another one, I also love Reiss for their quality but not sure if they are ethically made.
I just discovered Sézane last October and was instantly obsessed. I studied the past couple seasons to prep for the winter archives. I was looking at the new collections to build a wish list for future archives but gave up caring because the new collections just came at a relentless speed. It didn’t seem like the slower more special vibe I had initially encountered and has put me off a bit.
I only buy sweaters and slacks from Sezane. My beef is they run out of stock fast and always in the larger sizes first. It seems that more of their customers are buying those sizes so they should order more of that size. I’m 5’6 but their pants are always too long and I have to get them tailored. Do they assume women only wear heels? For the 6 years I’ve been mail ordering from them my boxes always arrive in the US partially open, it’s like they don’t know how to properly tape a box closed, I’ve emailed them every time about this but nothing changes. Sezane is not going to gift you if you have negative videos. I follow ZoryMory’s UA-cam and all she does is Sezane videos.
I agree with you, definitely. But... like other brands, we must always analyze the fabrics and the piece itself. I already buy less clothes from Sézane but if there's something worth it, I'll probably buy it again. Kisses
I love your channel because your videos are very honest! I agree with many of your points especially about showing only very slim models and influencers. I’m curious which other companies will you try out. I’m definitely going to be here for it😊
Hey all! I wanted to pin a comment addressing some of the criticism I’ve seen regarding my comments on influencer gifting.
I totally understand how it comes across as hypocritical that I complain about influencer gifting in one breath and then get upset that they’ve never reached out to me. Am I slightly salty about this? Absolutely haha. Is it hypocritical? Maybe!
I think the point I was trying to make, which I could have articulated better, was that if they are going to use influencers to market their product, why not include the people who have been reviewing their clothing (myself, Mila and the many others) for years, free of charge, rather than micro-influencers who have never spent their own money on clothing from the brand?
Hopefully it’s obvious that I really do love and wear the brand, whether they choose to work with me or not, and in my opinion, they are missing a trick by not acknowledging our reviews as a way to incorporate a more authentic, genuine form of influencer marketing.
I appreciate all your comments and thoughts on this video, it’s been so interesting to read all of your perspectives and experiences ❤
I agree with you, they should gift to you. I'm more of a scandi fashion fan and they always gift to these people! I am surprised
the whole idea of influencer marketing is to get more people who might be interested in your product to know about your brand. if you already use your platform to "promote" them there's no need for them to spend additional money on giving their clothes to you. it's more logical to go to a creator who has large following but hasn't posted anything about the brand yet. that's just business
Yes, obviously. But it’s not just about awareness. People trust my reviews as I’ve been doing them for 3 years, unsponsored. I have an audience that knows I know sézane, and will buy off of my recommendation. A large influencer may introduce lots of new people to the brand, doesn’t mean that will convert to sales.
My thoughts are that the lack of gifting is not about you, but your followers. You make excellent, very popular review videos about the brand and they know your followers come to the channel to see your Sezane videos and are already established fans of the brand. They’re reaching out to the influencers who don’t wear Sezane and even some whose style doesn’t even look Sezane-like to try to get those followers turned on to the brand.
While it makes sense from an advertising viewpoint, it does make me sad that legitimate fans of the brand such as yourself don’t get gifted the allowance if they’re going to spend that money to influencers anyway.
You're absolutely right about Sezane moving at a fast-fashion kind of pace! The number of collections and drops has NOTHING to do with sustaiability. I'm afraid it's one of those brands who forgot about their ideals when they started making really good money...
Just because they drop more stuff doesn’t mean you need to buy it. You need a black dress, you buy one black dress that’s good quality and will last a while.
It does mean the company isn't sticking to their values though.
Yep, the quality has dropped significantly over the years. I just bought their latest Adele, in silk, in the Palomba print. Lovely dress, fits well and on first inspection seemed very well made. However, the damn buttons are too small for the buttonholes - and being covered in silk doesn't help. So when I wore it to work yesterday the bust and bottom 3 buttons kept popping open through the most mundane use. I'm an office worker, not an aerobics instructor. I should be able to sit typing or walk to the water fountain and not have the buttons pop. I've decided to just repair the way too big buttonholes myself but boy am I annoyed. This should have been caught in the design process and I shouldn't have to waste my time on this.
Same dress same issue 😮
I completely agree it’s morphing into a fast fashion, overpriced operation. The prices are soaring and the quality is really declining. Very sad.
Since when though ?
I love Sezane and won't be breaking up with them anytime soon.
That said, as a size 14 Aus woman, I cannot buy anything of theirs without seeing larger women try the item online.
I have also learned to be very vigilant when it comes to fabric composition and will not purchase their items unless its majority natural fibers.
In terms of influencer gifting - I just can't help but think that if they can afford to be gifting sooooo much product, how much is what I'm paying for quality product? And how much is just funding their gifting? It definitely cheapens the brand in my eyes.
Poor quality work and materials seems to be a problem with many clothing brands that used to do better....when you buy a well made piece from even 10 or 15yrs ago the difference is noticeable.
Agreed! Another argument for shopping secondhand
Absolutely! I have had some Mango, Zara and H&M pieces from over a decade ago that are still impeccable, nowadays the quality is so horrible I wouldn't set foot in their stores if they paid me. Sezane is heading in the same direction + it's a lot more expensive to begin with and I highly doubt they will lower their prices to fast fashion level.
I too have some old Mango and Zara stuff which is great quality. Such a shame they all go the same way. Greed....@@mmmilagro
I’m sick of influencers. While I understand they want to make money for their time and effort to make their videos it’s gone overboard. It makes me question the credibility.
😅 I get it. I do think there’s a way to do sponsorships ethically, but a lot of influencers get drawn in by the money. I recently saw an influencer I’ve followed for years do a Temu sponsorship and was shocked - had to unfollow at that point.
The thing with vinted is that from my own experience, a large portion of those offered pieces are scams. Untrustworthy people have realised that sezane goes for large money, and they're taking advantage of that
Yes this is a really good point! Its such a shame that Vinted refuse to do anything about this. I don’t understand why, when you know what you’re looking for, these scams are super easy to spot. However every time I’ve tried to report one to Vinted, they say they can’t do anything because the post doesn’t violate their t&c’s - it’s madness.
@@katie_louisein Germany you can have the pieces sent to be authenticated by Vinted but it costs 10€ extra.
How do you spot the scams?
@@mm1234bb the ones I've seen the username will be something like 'becsa39495953' and they will have no reviews and only one item available. This is different to regular people selling fake Sézane, which may be harder to spot, but try comparing the care label to a real Sézane care label and they are usually different.
@@katie_louise loads of fake Polene on vinted too! At least on the Noth/East European vinted....
I actually found your channel because I was searching for Sezane bag reviews and I've since watched ALL your Sezane videos (and a lot of other ones too). I found your videos so helpful because you were showing Sezane products on a 'regular' body which was much more helpful to me than the thin, tall models they use on their website. So I completely agree that it's really bizarre that you haven't been approached for PR items.
TOTALLY agree that lack of diversity of body types on their product photos and IG hashtags are not only poor from a PR point of view, but actually make it really hard for the vast majority of women to buy from them. Being nowhere near a Sezane store, I rely purely on purchasing online and I often don't purchase because I can't work out whether the item will look good on me- the photos don't show the product clearly, they're just a series of stylised model shots which aren't actually all that useful. Contrast this to, say, Everlane who use a diverse range of models AND clearly show studio shots (is that what they're called?) of the items so you can clearly see it's shape and details, AND provide measurements of the garment itself- Sezane need to up their game. I still love Sezane because of their aesthetic but purchasing from them is a rare event for me (unfortunately!).
I have one bag Romeo and it is terrible quality leather
I bought a tank top from Everlane that looked totally different on me than it did on the model online. I’m a former model and haven’t gained weight since my last jobs, so I went to the website to look again at the top. Looking at the collarbone and neck area, I realized that it was being modelled by a guy. Men and women are built differently. This isn’t “inclusivity” it’s stupid and it needs to stop.
I’m embarrassed to say that I have been selling almost all my Sézane pieces on Vinted. I am at a cross roads in my life in terms of my wardrobe and what I miss to create my outfits. I’ve also been influenced to purchase items because they looked good on a creator but do not fit in my own style. I have also noticed that Sézane’s quality has decreased recently. I bought a classic Milo bag in burgundy and when it arrived it was not in pristine condition. The protective film had been taken off the hardware and it had no pouch. For the money I paid, I found this unacceptable.
I'm so glad to read this only because I thought I was the only one! The classic smooth burgundy Milo was my first Sezane purchase and I bought it because I was happily influenced by Katie here and I LOVE the bag, but mine also arrived in the same condition, with half of the plastic removed and it had kind of like what seemed like handprints or something on it.I'm not even sure, and just thrown in the box. I was so frustrated because I've been dealing with this kind of service from quite a few different companies lately and I just decided to keep it and not say anything. I was especially concerned that if I returned it they would run out of stock and then not restock until fall or never again, which has happened to me with other companies A LOT lately,. Also I'm in the US. So I kept it but I'm not happy about that experience. Pissed in fact to be honest but I wanted that color and finally got it. Did you return or exchange yours?
It was the same when I bought my CLaude bag and i resold it on Vinted just the other day as the bag seemed scratched for the price. When i asked the sales girl she said it’s natural to occur to leather bags…I have sold it and also bought another bag from polene that seems to be much better quality.
@@swetaravi7553 Wow. They must be getting in over their head. There's no other way to explain it.
I bought Sezane because of you and Mila!! I thought you were being paid by the brand. I am very disappointed that the brand doesn't support such good content as yours. Please, share with us other brands with good quality and style.
Also, it is time for Sezane to fix the itchiness problem of most of its knitwear.
Yes to the itchy issue. So disappointed in the sweaters. Cheap yarn
Yes, it's annoying when some influencers get a lot of PR deals and gifts while others do not. Influencer marketing is not bad in and of itself, but it's definitely unfair when more thoughtful content creators and actual customers of the brand get overlooked.
No, not done with Sezane! I still love the majority of my existing pieces and no doubt will buy more when I see something I want, but I do shop from a wider range of brands now, and tend to buy fewer clothes overall x
Fewer clothes in general is probably the most important change we could all make!
What other brands do you love?
Totally agree with this video!! I became obsessed with Sezane maybe 2 years ago and bought a bunch of stuff, but I am petite and a lot of their clothes are hard to pull off. I’ve started focusing on just buying layering basics from them, they’re usually good for good quality layering pieces.
Dear Katie, I am really glad that you made this honest critical video! Myself recognized that they use more and more synthetic fibers, for example the summer top Francisco has 20 % polyamide and other brands still have 100 % cotton for a lower price point. As a mid size woman I really appreciated your Sézane content which helped me with the purchase choice but I totally agree that at some point we need to slow down in purchasing new items and first enjoying the ones that we have - myself I have 90 items of Sézane so I definitely need to slow down now 😅 Great idea of introducing small brands, please some with a sustainable way and high quality, so 100 % cotton, merino wool, cotton / wool blend, real leather etc. Have a great weekend Katie!
I had this on in the background while obsessively refreshing the Archives which I'm sure is a sign of some kind of madness. So many Hard Sames on this one! Love your content.
Hahaha that made me laugh 😂 did you manage to get anything!?
First of all the absolute surprise of seeing my little face in the video made my day 😆 second of all the video is really great, i enjoyed how clear and considerate you were with your thoughts. I'm not sure if this is the case for you, but I can also see how small creators get the most views and engagement from Sézane videos so "breaking up" could be quite tricky. I have also been SO BOTHERED by the single type of body they choose to show (both in models and in their instagram) and it just perpetuates this sense that midsize women apperently do not exist... Anyways, wish you a happy weekend!
Oh yes, Sézane just seems to have this cult following that allows small creators to get seen on the platform like no other brand. I love your videos!
Same thing happened to Reformation few years ago.
I have 2 Sezane pieces from maybe 3-4 years ago and really liked some of their recent knits. I’m still happy with what I received can’t find pretty knitwear at similar price point in EU.
I can’t knit or sew or crochet, but one day I’ll learn all these techniques and some more mending too and I’m just gonna make everything 🥺
Not to be a jerk, but I think nearly everything about Sezane has been outdated for a while. Not just their marketing and fast fashion approach, but their styles. It’s like 80s mall clothing styles for the last 5 years or so. Very heavy looking large prints. I bought a lot of Sezane when they first opened and have bought almost nothing in the past five years. It’s a shame because they started as a special company and really went downhill. I also agree the influencer marketing is a turnoff. It makes me NOT want to buy from companies that do that.
Omg yes! I just don’t buy their whole “French girl” marketing hype. It’s more like Free People hippies boutique than anything to do with French. Trying too hard. Their cut is awful; most pieces fit like a sack with no curves. I don’t know how these influencers can rave about it ignoring those basic facts. It seems to fit a lot of people’s fantasized version of “French style”.
Their sweaters look exactly like sweaters I’ve seen at goodwill just with a couple extra 00’s on the price
Their target group is Gen X. Also, they have different styles. If you don’t like the big print 80s styles, then those pieces are not for you.
Their style completely changed from before and after the pandemic. Before the pandemic, their clothes had a vintage aesthetic, were almost always natural fabrics, and were feminine, sophisticated, and slightly sexy. Now I find their items at a strange crossroad between being sickly sweet with too many ruffles or oversized and shapeless. And like others, I'm so done with all their viscose and polyester, especially given the ENORMOUS price increases. They've lost all integrity.
yes, half of their stuff is actually very frumpy and ugly and looks like it's from 90s catalogue. They do have some beautiful stuff too but yeah... lot of it looks like cheap fast fashion
And yes, the "you wear it best" carousel is so annoying I've stopped clicking it open. The women all look like the Sezane models and yes, in addition to all being young, thin and model-gorgeous - you never see anyone at the shorter end. Apparently the average height of women in North America is 5'4" but I feel like I've never or rarely seen anyone in that carousel who is my height. I mean it's not like I can't figure out that a maxi style that's long on the model will not work for me - but it does make me feel like I'm just not a demographic that Sezane is interested in.
Most of the models on the Sezane site right now are not good looking at all. They don’t even fit the clothing. It’s weird.
The average height for a US woman is 5’4”, my height. Sezane’s items are ridiculously long and big (in the shoulders, etc.) for us. Their open-neck items also show everything down to my waist! Sadly, the average US woman is now a size 16, nothing for them there!
They sell petite so that’s that. Do they sell tall? Not much.
@@LinA-it9vd being 5'9, a lot of dresses are too short for me.
@@psygeek961 It’s very difficult and no one sells tall that is quality. I’m 5’10” but have really long legs and I also wear heels with my pants.
Thank you for being so honest !! Totally agree with this issue. I have reached out to said “influencers” that show huge hauls that “they paid with their own money” and asked them about VAT charges to the US for orders (which I paid for exorbitantly for just two dresses about 2 years ago--and have never attempted to shop since) and could never get a straight answer from anyone…so sad. Otherwise a beautiful brand that ultimately is just cashing in any which way it can as is the norm these days.
Oof that is so shady! 😦
I only just started purchasing from the brand last autumn and bought quite a few pieces, but then without warning the prices were increased by a minimum of $15 and as much as $25. Sézane was already pricey, but after the increase, I slowed down and then stopped buying anything because I could not justify spending $215 + 13% tax on a simple T-shirt dress.
Recently I have noticed how frequently they have been releasing new items and have also noticed the increased use of synthetic fibres.
One thing that puts me off about the brand is how they push the idea of scarcity. For example, when there’s a new release you should be on their website first thing in the morning to ensure you get the items you liked in the lookbook because they’ll sell out. The same applies to the archive sales. Yet, if you look out long enough, they almost always end up restocking items. And if they can roll out so many collections, why can’t they keep all of their jeans stocked throughout the year? It really bothers me that they consistently post videos of their models wearing tops from newer collections with jeans you can no longer find online.
Yes I also noticed a price hike across the board in recent months.
Given the prices are already higher in AUD than in Euros when you do the conversion, I find this increase to be quite unfair.
Their scarcity marketing tactics are probably my least favourite thing about the brand
They actually sent an e-mail to all the clients a few weeks before the increases!
Completely agree with a lot of the assertions here! These days I shop Sezane items from Vinted first and only buy full price from Sezane if I can’t find them there and only if they are in natural fibres. Might shop their Archives tomorrow though 😋
Same here! I shopped many Sézane pieces in great conditions from Vinted 👌🏻
Many thoughts:
1) I’ve spent a lot of money on Sezane over the years influenced to buy. I have kept almost nothing, in part due to the use of synthetic fibers on the linings.
2) the only sezane item I current have is a white Conrad t shirt that they embroidered without my consent “happy” yuck and I’ve worn about 10 times before it got a hole in the armpit.
3) the turn into fast fashion is obvious and I’m glad you’re speaking about it.
4) as a mid to plus size woman I consistently feel bad about my body when I’ve shopped online or their clothing in store.
Wait why did they embroider it without asking you?!
@@katie_louise I really don't know! I think they thought it would be a nice surprise? So weird
Thanks for posting this as this really resonates with what I have been noticing about the polyester materials, frequent drops, and quality issues. They also don’t carry petite sizes so I avoid their pants and jeans anyway. Thanks for speaking out.
Thanks for sharing!
Amazing video Katie! I started shopping Sezane 3 years ago and have noticed a change in the number of drops and quality of fabrics in that short time and have felt it start leaning towards a fast fashion business model but I didn't want to admit it. I enjoy the brand but I'm not obsessed with it and specifically look for their sustainable fabrics when shopping (most of the time). I agree with everything you have said and thank you for packing it up in such a concise and thorough presentation. BTW, love your hair!!!
Thank you Maria! It’s such a shame but I’m glad I’m not the only one who feels this way! 🤍
Completely agree with all of your points! I’m genuinely shocked they have never approached you. Your reviews are so thorough and honest (I adore them).
Awh thank you ❤
Katie, thx for being honest & candid--partly why I watch you. I have classic & beautiful pieces from 4-5yrs ago. All keepers. I do NOT buy anything made in China (more of their pieces now/likewise all of Goellia!) and quality with mostly natural fibers are a must. I actually like to see their pieces on various influencers so I can better idea of fit, etc. But I do find the quantity of released collections is a huge concern re quality. Love your vids!
I’ve been buying from Sezane since 2016, only a few pieces a year (3-4) till this year when I went mental probably because there was so much of my style in the collections. I don’t like their new approach of releases coming out every other week nor am I happy about their huge amount of free stuff for influencers. I haven’t experienced any quality issues myself, everything has been high standard, no bad stitching etc. at this point, I feel they are my brand for my style but that can easily change. But I really don’t need anything else so I don’t intend to buy much more this year as I think I have an amazing wardrobe now that I can’t wait to wear. I think we as consumers need to make them slow down again. Am I shopping the archives tomorrow? Maybe I will have a look but am not in need of anything
I haven't finished watching, but you just got me a bit emotional on the part where you talk about never having been gifted any items from Sezane. I've been following you for so long, and I can assure you that your candour and openness to be critical about whatever you're showing us is what makes us trust you and keep coming back to your videos. Thank you for this honest and very well-articulated video. As someone who is also done with Sezane, I really appreciate this. It seriously bothers me that they keep marketing themselves as a conscious brand, when they're so clearly failing on so many fronts.
Awh thank you so much, I have appreciated your support so much! ❤
I personally haven't noticed a decline in quality per se but I don't like the amount of polyester and viscose they're using lately. I recently bought the Dorotha dress in the italian lemon print but I decided to return it because the material wasn't amazing and 160€ for viscose is too much. A couple of years ago I bought the same dress (I don't recall if it was called Dorotha back then as well) and it was cheaper AND made of silk.
Exactly this. The poppy+dots version of the Dorotha is beautiful as well, but the viscose seemed uneven and strangely papery? Don't know, but I sent it back as faulty. And own 2 silk versions that are just sooo much more beautiful to the touch. Also most of it isn't lined anymore. Which is a no-go for me.
I actually completely agree with you. I discovered Sézane a year and a half ago and I still saw the decrease in quality. I was also chocked by the huge price increase they did this winter. Now I'm at the point where I'm buying all my wishlist before they increase their prices again but my wallet has been safe with the spring and summer collections...
Just went to Vinted and see 500+ results, but when you scroll throgh, it's mostly the free bags and scarves. Also, people resell all the time, so the amount of items that are on the 2nd hand market isn't an indictment of a brand's quality.
I don't get the complaints about influencers receiving free clothing. It's no different than celebrities wearing sponsored stuff. I also noticed that you spent more time talking about influencer gifting than the other points, which is curious.
Anyway, it's a French brand. Unfortunately, Sezane is ahead of the curve for even going above a FR38. Their main client base is in France, so the cuts, material, price point and marketing will be French.
I agree on the polyester.
I'm not done with Sézane, but I've been more discerning since last year. I try to only buy natural materials and try to limit the amount I purchase, as I was returning or reselling quite a few due to size issues. I agree with several of your points especially on the use of synthetics and influencer marketing. Part of the issue, I think, has been when they started selling parts of the company to PPE firms. While Morgane still owns the majority, I feel there's a clear push toe and increase revenu limit costs (less quality control and more use of cheap fabrics).
I am a Sezane junkie: I am learning French with UA-cam and all the French influencers just talk about Sezane. Also: I am Portuguese (yay! from Lisbon) and big part of their pieces are Portuguese craft 😎. And I really want to support designs that go further than the Zara and H&M mainstream. This being said: you and Mila in New York are my Sezane oracles and is OUTRAGEOUS you not receiving a full Sezane wardrobe to review. Couldn’t care less for the skinny-boring-cookiecut influencers that Sezane gifts: lazy choice from Sezane marketing team. But, hey!, for sure they will see this video and start to work better. And send you and Mila a lot of pieces to review.
Haha I really appreciate this! Thank you ❤
Unfortunately, you're absolutely right about them moving at a fast-fashion pace!
I remember it was so rare and SUPER precious to "succeed" and buy an item :D
I agree about declining quality as well :(((
The only thing: gifts are really randomly placed in the packages because I have no followers on any social media platform and I got their gifts several times.
It's too sad
Hi Katie, I’m still a fan but I absolutely agree with most of the criticism in this video.
I can’t say I’ taking a step back from them, but I haven’t really been so interested lately and I’ve been feeling overwhelmed.
It’s definitely overwhelming, ironically one of the reasons I fell in love with Sezane originally was because I didn’t feel overwhelmed with constant newness from them. I loved that I new all the names of their styles and there wasn’t loads of excess. How times have changed…
@@katie_louise totally feel the same! I loved when I knew all the models’ names 😂
Yes! Totally agree.
The quality has changed, as has the 'feeling' of the brand.
I am hoping to find brands with the range in sizes, ethically made and feminine! What a shame - have loved Sezane for a few years.
This is crazy I just barely decided to give Sezane a try with the Scott trench and the Beautiful burgundy Milo, but I had been seeing a number of influencers talk about them the past 5 years, like Dearly Bethany, and Erin Busbee being some of the firsts for me. That said, I never gave them a look and when I did finally look at their clothes, I really wasn't impressed. Probably because I have a huge wardrobe already and should not be looking lol, but I've been seeing all of these Reddit pages and things that you're talking about and when I was, you were the first person that came to my mind and I thought, I wonder what her feelings are about this topic? And here you are ;)
I just commented on someone else's post here about the classic Milo in smooth burgundy that you had bought which turned me on to it. When it arrived it also was missing half of the plastic and it had like handprints or smudges in it or on it and it seemed like somebody was in such a hurry they just threw it in the box and sent it. It did have the dust bag but I was completely disappointed and pissed off. I only kept it because I was afraid it would run out of stock and they wouldn't restock it until the fall or possibly never and so I just kept it but I'm not happy about it at all. I absolutely loved the Scott trench but I did return it because even size zero was too big for me. I've been on the hunt still for a trench and I'm currently considering one from Mango that I just received yesterday... but as far as Sezane is concerned, I'll likely not be purchasing anything else from them again unless it's a handbag I really want. That said, if the quality is subpar, I will return it and I will rant about it so that they have no question about my disappointment.
Last thing I want to say is I agree with the frustration of how much free gifting goes on with all influencers.. Lately it seems that every time I'm looking to purchase something in a handbag that I've been debating about spending money on, I go to watch reviews on it and find that person saying I was pleasantly surprised to be gifted this bag and the one that I've been seeing it with the most lately has been Atelier Auguste. I know you did a video for them recently and I don't remember if they gifted you one but it wouldn't annoy me if it was you with 13k following and so much work put into your videos to help us in deciding on items. They're giving them to people who have those giant handbag collections behind them with like 50 Birkins and Chanel's. When it happens to someone that I feel does not have an exorbitant collection like that it, it actually kind of makes me happy. So they are having the opposite effect on people and I agree with everyone's comments here on Lily silk. I don't really want to buy from them anymore. :(
Dear Katie, thank you for this honest review. I just came across Sézane and have purchased a few pieces to built a capsule wardrobe. I live in Germany and people here are selling their pieces on vinted too, but not a lot. I noticed that these are often pieces from special collaborations. I think people are ordering without really considering if this will contribute to their style. I personally only order clothes from natural fabric from them and pieces I know are timeless and in my colour season. By doing that there were a couple of pieces I liked, but did not buy based on my standards. I also got really confused about the amount of launches they do and I think that's were people get intrigued to buy more than they acually want or need. So far, everything I have ordered has a great quality and I am very happy with my pieces (only clothes). I think as a customer we can have a big influence, if we fir example don't buy synthetic fibers or overall slow down, so hopefully thei will react to it.
Hello Katie, I think you do the best sezane reviews. And I'm glad you still will do some sezane reviews. I notice the change of quantity and qualitiy, too. I find their amount of new drops stressful and it is not what it used to be. I loved your videos about style (using clothes you already purchased) and the videos that introduced us to smaller brands like Pink City Prints. I'd love to see a video about your holiday capsule.❤
Hi! I had a couple items on my wishlist (sandals & bag) and your video makes me look elsewhere! I also would have never put Anna Edit and Sezanne in the same sentence so I don’t understand what they are after- other than the following size. I’ve seen so many of your Sezane reviews and always considered you were in some sort of partnership with them! Actually disappointed they never reached out to you. Thanks for the video and let’s all take our hard worked money elsewhere 👏🏻👏🏻
I have to admit I’ve not bought anything from sezane since last year, and if I check in now and then I just don’t see anything for me. I am loving nobody’s child, i’m actually currently wearing the same dress as you but in Navy and it’s the comfiest thing. ☺️✌️
Oh my gosh so I stumbled upon Nobody’s Child a few months ago and thought the website looked great and the clothes were so cute (although not too happy with the vague green washing) and I am around 5’1 so was excited to get some pieces. Well quite disappointed with their quality now and the returns process. Sizing is completely off. Like 2-3 sizes off. Shrinkage, buttons flying off, no lining. Less and less petite pieces. I do hope they improve (at the moment I have a summer midi dress and a mini skirt from them). Have you been happy with them so far? Never see anyone else talking about this brand
@@Juliette5044 Aw really, that's rubbish. I'll have to see how mine hold up after a few washes 😨I've just got the navy dress in cotton and a white shorter one and I'm really pleased with them for the price & it's nice to see a brand doing these styles in cotton for a ok price point, but I can't say I've experienced a variety of things from them. I'mm 5'6 and the long dress is midaxi length on me, so definitely not petite length. Katie did a video on a few brands recently there's definitely some more erthical ones in the mix. I do think it could be hit and miss at Nobody's Child as even on the website a few things looked a bit poorer quality. I since saw that they sell on Asos and Next which I'm not sure is great re greenwashing.
Completely agree. I unfollowed them on IG about a year ago because I felt like their content was excessive and I was so sick of seeing so many influencers wearing the same pieces.
Yup 😢
Thank you, Katie, for such a great and insightful video. I cannot believe they have never reached out to you! That is very disheartening. I still love Sézane but have really identified which types of clothing of worth it, and which to avoid. Definitely not a sustainable brand given all the drops they have. I also can't keep up anymore! This actually makes it easier for me to be turned off from buying.
I’ve been considering buying some summer pieces from this brand as I’ve been seeing so many ads and they looked cute … but after seeing your video I think I won’t 🤷🏻♀️
I started buying from Sezane at the end of 2021. Honestly, I am pretty picky and choosy with their pieces and materials but I do have Sezane to thank for finally having my dream wardrobe. Sezane has gotten me to a place where I don’t need to look for new pieces. Sure there is a dress or top that I’m still on the lookout for, but no rush. I have all I need from Sezane now and my shopping has honestly slowed to a halt because of them. I also simply just stopped shopping from other brands since Sezane has helped me achieve closet peace.
I agree with this video I always check the fabric and I refuse to buy polyester at this price and I think there is too much collection it's alsmot like zara but I still love the brand and hope they will change in the futur
I'll buy again only with good fabrics and keep them onmy if the quality seems good ❤
I discovered sezane during lockdown and loved looking at their look books! Realistically it is probably out of my price range, justified them as investments because they were supposedly good quality and classic pieces but they haven’t lasted as well and I think this is down to fabrics, I’ve since sold items on vinted. What really turned me away is how tired they looked after a couple hand washes, how often the drops are and how intense the online community felt for me personally. I found myself feeling like I *needed* to get certain pieces due to hype and how fast you have to be on their website it felt. There’s too many drops to keep up with now 😅 I’ll admire from afar
Agreed - I’m disappointed by how poorly the garments hand wash, my Betty’s have never been quite the same.
I've never bought there so I don't have any strong opinions, but one of the things that kind of discourages me from buying there is the marketing. By that I mean mentioning that it's #frenchgirl all the time. "All the parisian women wear that" and stuff like that. I know it's a type of aesthetic, but I just find if very try-hard. Using French phrases in an otherwise English text makes me cringe. I'm not trying to cosplay a French person, I just want nice clothes lol. I'm pretty sure the actual French girls with a good style don't have to scream they're parisian all the time. It's tacky imo.
I have been a customer of Sezane for at least 5 years and have spent an absolute fortune - I have had free delivery for quite some time. I still like the brand but am definitely buying more cautiously and look at the composition before purchase. I won't buy any synthetic fibres. I have recently purchased from Balzec Paris which I have been quite impressed with. Balzec retail at a slighter higher price point than Sezane but materials are of a better quality.
Agree, I don’t love that their quality has gone down so much. I used to only buy silk there but I barely see silk items now? Most of the dresses and skirts are viscose. I also kind of hate that they are paying so many influencers to get clothes. Like all over tiktok you have girls who get a monthly Sezane spending credit. Then most of those items are not available. Why bother? Why not invest in some good size inclusive marketing? And good point on them not being slow fashion anymore. I wish they focused more on basics and standard items. And also most of collabs are really flashy or poor quality. It’s disappointing. That being said, their sweaters and some of their workwear (two pieces) are some of the best you can get for the money… at least in Europe. I’ve been living in the US for the last 3 years and Sezane feels more expensive there somehow. Since moving back to Europe I’ve made a few orders and I have returned about 70% of the stuff I ordered. I found myself keeping the simple easy basics only. And I don’t know if anyone has noticed but the items girls online rewear from Sezane are usually sweaters, silk shirts, maybe jeans or shoes? It’s never items from the flashy multiple drops.
I’m surprised they have not approached you by the way, exactly because I’ve seen really small creators on tiktok, and those so called reviews are useless. I agree with you that you are doing the work for free and you are incredibly honest…which is why I love your channel.
Omg, the spotlighting of discontinued items drives me nuts. The first, red Etia dress was shown with the model wearing Paula babies in that deep purply red that was *already* sold out, never to return. I checked with Sezane and they were like, "nope maybe you can get a return." But they'd already been sold out for ages- no chance of a return. I mean why. on. earth. would you style up a shoot with pieces your customers cannot buy? Like you said, why bother? And instead of indulging a handful of select influencers I'd *way* prefer if they'd reward their loyal customers once in a while - and I don't mean sticking another flimsy beach bag into my order either. What happened to the annual $20 discount?
I agree 💯 with your comments:
1) they are now doing waay too many weekly drops its impossible to follow or keep up which strongly suggests a switch to a fast fashion mindset
2) The summer drops are at a price point which is crazy for some basic styles.
3) The clothes are mostly for tall people- always ridiculously long (most dresses and trousers won’t fit petites).
4) the sweaters are beautiful but there is now a lack of natural fibers and quite a lot are itchy and difficult to wear on bare skin.
I've only been buying from Sézane since January when I found your channel. While I found many pieces I was interested in at that time, the summer collection is hugely disappointing to me... although very pretty to look at on the website. Where would anyone wear 3/4 of the items they're selling? It seems like they don't have a strong concept/foundation as a brand and they seem to have questionable ethics. All of this really shows up by having spring/summer collections that aren't reminiscent of what they produce in fall/winter. The lack of mid-size/plus size models is also truly disappointing. It seems like once they started making more and more money, the brand as a whole really deteriorated. That's usually a sign that a brand is on a decline or about to be.
Thank you for this Katie, you are absolutely right. I have decreased my spending at Sezane, only go for some basic pieces and form time to time an interesting shirt..looking for more sustainable brands.
I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on these items 😊 If Emile doesn’t work for you the Louis cardigan also comes in the Burgundy colour and is merino and very soft with no itchyness at all.
Yes I saw that after I ordered! I definitely prefer that one, it's on my wishlist now :) maybe I'll try it in October.
I have been purchasing Sezane for 5 years or so. I agree that I’m more of a fall/winter buyer and their spring/summer collections just don’t interest me. I will say that the knits I have from the past year or two are beautiful. I was recently looking to add a piece and when I went into the description I was shocked to see it made in China! I haven’t given up on the brand but I will be very careful researching the item before it goes into my cart. Also, I just received the gray Gabin bag and I’m very pleased with it. Lastly, the gifting to “influencers” is a real turnoff to me and I wish companies would stop doing it. Thanks for your video!!
I’m not interested in brands that you see so many influencers given the brand.
Bravo Katie👏🏼!! Well said. I stand by you in all your assertions, and, like you, I plan to be more conscientious in supporting brands that strive to be ethical and sustainable by using more natural fibers 😉. Love all your videos and deeply appreciate your honesty 🙏🏼❤💞🥰. It’s absolutely refreshing 🤗.
Thank you for saying this ❤. I totally agree with you, what is happening to Sezane? I do love the staple collection and i have only been buying these items this year. I, like you, am also doing a lot of 2nd hand purchasing curating previous collection items which i missed out on at the time which fits more to my aesthetic.
i have to agree with most of what you said in the video. I am a huge fan of Sezane even though they don't necessarily cater for my body type and budget. I own quite few of their items but don't think that quality represents the prices. I haven't bought anything from them in a while and use them more as an inspiration.
I completely agree and I am really glad that someone out there says what is going on 🎉
Lovely video! A newbie to Sezane over here, just had my first anniversary haha. Last year I've got ridd of a lot of polyester dresses I had from Asos, H&M etc. It was such a shift in consciousness towards what I put on my skin in regards of fabric. I qucikly became abecame HUGE Sezane fan!
From last year on I've purchased mostly linen, wool and cotton from them. Most of their polyester and viscose I swipe away. I also do feel within the first year of being a fan, I feel the drops have became more even in the past months. For me personally I'll keep looking out for mostly cotton, linen, wool and maybe silk. I do enjoy their cuts and prints a lot ❤ And am also more of a fall/winter-fan!
Please share more Brands like Christy Dawn and Pink City!!
I still really like Sézane, I haven’t had much that has been poor quality apart from a skirt I bout about 6 months ago. It was viscose and I noticed when it was hung up that the front and back length looked a bit uneven and you could see the plain material of on the back. One thing I love is the perfume the size of the bottle was a very generous size easily twice as big. The glass bottle was class. The one I’ve just ordered is tiny compared to the other and the top to the perfume bottle on the new one chipped all around the edge. It’s only a little thing but the older bottle is totally pristine. Wish I could have returned it to have it refilled. Still really like their uniqueness. My new Lucille editions green linen skirt is beautiful. Only ever sold two items. They were lovely but didn’t really suit me. My fault not theirs
Thank you for this video, Katie! I think you highlighted some important and common complaints that I’ve been seeing nowadays, and at the pace they’re going, I doubt they’re going to change things because all companies are profit driven. I’m hoping they hear these growing sentiments and pare back but I’m not holding my breath!
Agree - years ago they had fabulous staple items that were well made and still hang in my wardrobe. Lately, the number of ‘drops’ have been excessive and not of the same quality. Sustainability is one of their key attributes which will make many loyal followers seek alternatives if they continue in the current trajectory…
The amount of influencer gifting that’s happening has made me step back. They did an influencer only popup in Toronto and gifted items. I was so sad to not have the opportunity to shop at a popup and found my Instagram flooded with a brand I had coveted. I selectively shop the natural fibre items only now.
That is so bizarre to me, to do a pop up for influencer only
@@katie_louise Isn't it bizarre? They sent a 'Hello Toronto' bag in orders with a code, opened up a pop-up store, and then it was invite only where specified influencers got to pick out a comped sweater. As someone who has traveled internationally to stores (no Cdn stores so far) to shop and paid the crazy prices in Canada (a Betty is $250 CDN) I felt very upset. Clearly their marketing worked because I see Sezane much more in Toronto now... made me very sad as an every day consumer.
I totally agree with you, especially for the hashtag sezane et hope you will continue to discover others brands and talk more of ethical or intentional shopping. Like you, i don't think i will totally break with sezane but i prefer buy basics with natural fibers. Thank you for your videos, i live in Paris ans you re one of my favorite channel for your style and your good vibe !
Hi! I’m discovering your work and content on YT, thank you for the honesty and precise information. I’ve been a faithful client of Sezanés for the last 5 years and I have been disappointed with all of my last purchases. The sizing is very random. The quality of the material and the sewing has lowered tremendously. I find that most items don’t look like the photographs on the website. The colors are often a bit off, less vivid than the photo. The fitting is often disappointing too and I find myself more often than not asking for a tailor to work on the clothes. Which has a cost… Anyways, I don’t get as excited as I would have before, and turn myself to other brands and second hand. Oh I stopped second hand Sezane too. What a scam.
Thanks for sharing your honest perspective on this topic. Having a very Sezane heavy wardrobe, I’ve pulled back over the last 18+ months. Mostly I have the ‘basics’ to build a foundation of button up shirts, some jumpers, some denim, some jackets and coats and shoes. I stick to the natural fiber and leather items. Actively avoid polyester and expensive viscose items. The shoes have been the most disappointing. Nice looking, good construction but not much padding in the footbed and just uncomfortable for longer wear and walking about in the city.
I did purchase some items I regret as I don’t wear them and now have been selling them. Have noticed Sezane has become fast fashion over the last several years and their designs are, well boring and a bit out of touch. Their pricing is a bit much for many items. I will still shop but very, very judiciously and few and far between purchases. There aren’t many gaps in my wardrobe and there are other high quality brands that offer more affordable and wearable options
Thank you! You are so right! This is a perfect overview of literally my opinion since a year (I've been a big Sézane fan since 5 years). Just a little note: I'm pregnant at the moment and I'm not able to wear anything the pregnant influencers wear. Sézane is in desperate need of some bigger sized pregnant women too 🙂
Unfortunately agree with you on pretty much everything... Still love Sézane but stay away from unpadded sandals, most jeans and trousers, anything synthetic... Since getting my Ateliers Auguste crossbody and witnessing that quality I also decided I won't be getting any more of their bags, either. I have a mini Milo and a Claude which aren't much cheaper than my AA but are sooo much heavier and have a bunch of useless compartments. I'm keeping them (for now) because they are very beautiful and fill gaps in my colour range but will definitely be checking other Indie brands over Sézane bags in the future.
About Vinted, some people just buy very popular pieces to sell them on there for a premium (which I find disgusting btw). I noticed this with the recent Ron top for example, or the Samuel from the winter collection, or their raincoats... And just wait a few days to see aaaaall the bags and belts that have been gone since minute one of the archives on Vinted, too!
Thanks for the video! Cheers!
Love this video! I can feel your pain!!! I dislike Sezane’s constant new collections. It’s just too overwhelming because I’d like something and buy it, then one week later a slightly different item is launched. Also dislike the induced scarcity and fear of missing out. That said, I do like sezane still but I’m more careful what I buy. Quality can be good but is now quite random. I also find them now expensive after the price increase in Asia and Australia. So I am pickier with what I keep.
I agree with you, I haven't looked at the lineup of their clothes lately, but the amount of new stuff they throw in twice a week is frightening. Also, for me these clothes (some of them) are too stiff, I don't think it's quality for years, maybe some of their stuff is.
Great breakdown of what has happened with Sezane. You can really tell when private capital came in and immediately started chasing profits and hockey stick growth with these seemingly endless drops and collections while at the same time lowering quality standards. The number of promo emails I get from them on a weekly basis were so overwhelming that I finally had to hit that "unsubscribe" button.
I actually follow influencers to see, which brands gave them the most gifts and then I boycott these brands :D so, influencers are highly informative to me.
yes, all of this! I haven't purchased any Sezane directly form the website this year for the exact reasons you list. When I buy secondhand, I tend to go for the older collections too; I find the quality higher and the aesthetic more timeless. I used to adore Sezane for their unique, yet understated, pieces. It was my to go spot for classic items with an unexpected, often feminine, twist. But I feel like along with the slow fashion principles and quality, they've been abandoning that style as well; moving toward a different vibe all together: much louder, in your face. Not for me. Most of all though, I'm bothered by their FOMO tactics... the more drops I see, the more buzz of items out of stock and consumer despair on FB, of getting up at ungodly hours and being so crushed to miss out, the less desire I have to browse their site.
Agree. The quality has definitely been declining even on items made with cotton. I had to sadly return my orders from recent purchases.
I started shopping at Sezane this past year, so I’m kinda sad that maybe I’m catching it at a point where it’s starting to decline. I haven’t been disappointed by anything I’ve bought from Sezane yet, but I appreciate your reviews so I can make the informed choice!
You can always find some of their older collection pieces secondhand! The quality is probably still better, even used, than some of the new collection pieces…
Amazing video Katie! So much to unpack here.
First of all, I just want to say how great you break it down.
Something I would like to highlight in addition to what you’ve already touched on is the location of manufacturing.
It’s changed a lot! From locations in Europe to China. The capital of fast fashion. This concerns me a lot. Doesn’t seem very French or sustainable.
The second thing I want to point out is that there is so little transparency when it comes to how UA-cam influencing works (as a former influencer). Many viewers assume that if you’re talking about a brand you must have been gifted or sponsored.
An influencer will usually call out specifically when a brand has gifted but by law have to say if a brand is sponsoring them.
Although the gifting model is annoying for all the reasons you mentioned, I t’s still a form of exchange in payment. So the influencer isn’t really getting anything for free. They are selling the attention of their following for the price of a cardigan. 😂
It appears on the surface that it’s free clothing. Influencers of all sizes have affiliate partnerships now that the kickback is still a win.
And even though it was a “free” product the influencer gets clout, perhaps a bit of affiliate income & the brand gets name recognition to a whole new audience.
A declining economy, rising cost of goods & production will always hit midsize brands like Sézane the hardest. They are gambling a lot with their future. Look at jcrew & banana republic. Almost all of the stores in the US closed at one point.
Sézane has a to strike that perfect balance of being able to grow and support their brand infrastructure & people while profiting & maintaining quality. It’s not an easy task. They’re going through an awkward growth phase right now.
Interesting to see what will happen.
I buy what I like and that is almost always the classic, natural fibre items which I’ve had before or had similar before. I still like the quality of their core pieces and they really add to my wardrobe with my existing clothes.
The sezane shop is great because I have found they showcase their best items.
The quality depends on the pieces. I found some really and others not so good. I wish they control a bit more carefully their returns. I received some items which have been obviously worn (sweat smell, enlarged, stained with make-up ...)
Maybe you got the pieces that influencers made their video about and then they returned them..!
This was a hard video to see. However, I have to agree with all of your points. I have purchased, for me, a fair amount from Sezane since I discovered them only about a year ago. But most have been their core products. I now own 5 Bettys'. I have been elated since they brought a pop-up store to Washington DC this spring. Finally, I can go and try things I have not ordered online because, as you stated, you can't tell from the website what the items really look like. As for my continuing to buy from Sezane, I will, 16:21 however, it will probably be mostly the tried and true core pieces like I mentioned before. I hope they see the error of their ways, and return to their roots.
Totally agree with you that the frequency of their drops is getting overwhelming. I had to unfollow their Instagram page to not get bombarded by the nonstop content. This quantity over quality mindset definitely caused their quality to go downhill.
Another thing that you mentioned which I found interesting is how Sézane is selective about whom they give free stuff to. As a regular customer (aka. not an influencer), I've purchased 5 times from the brand and never received any free gift from them. But a friend of mine received a free gift the first time she purchased a dress from them. I think this is consistent with what they're doing with the influencers about free clothing- they will not give you free stuff if you're already promoting their brand (you making content about them in this case) or if you're already purchasing from them (me as a customer).
Must agree that I have definitely slowed down. Love the classic sweaters but way too many shirts full of frills and large prints my grandma would not have worn. Price increases in Canada also too much. $95 + 13 % tax for a t-shirt! I have also noticed the use of synthetic fabrics and I won't pay Sezane prices for polyester.
I wish you would say exactly what and when they released in one month for example. This is all just not specific. Also about the synthetic material, there is important if it recycled or not. I am vegan and do try for sustainability and I am very happy for coat from recycled polyester from Sezane, for example. It is important to see it all in context and more points of view. Natural materials are “nice” but based on animal cruelty. And not everything could be made of organic cotton. About vinted. I think and saw that lots of people just buy lots on sales and then sell it via for example on vinted for even more that Sezane. It doesn’t mean they all sell just because they are unhappy with it.
I’m not sure what you mean by the first point? Why do I need to list exactly what came out and when - do you honestly expect me to know that? I don’t work for them 😂
I agree completely, I have bought 3 Tabata skirts. I love the fit but 2 of the skirts were unlined. The back seam on the unlined skirts with normal wear and sitting started to pull and fray. The skirts are not too tight, they just need a lining. I feel for 200+ the skirts should be lined. I was able to return the one skirt for a credit which was nice but agree the quality has declined.
I agree with you. The quality has decreased considerably, and some of my shirts' buttons are falling apart. I can't even restitch; the top shiny part came off. It's sad because they used to be so good. I have some money in my Sezane account, but I couldn't find anything worth my money. Everything is so trendy and fast fashion, nothing classic. Sad:(
I've had money in there for ages too... nothing worth spending it on atm :(
I would love to find pieces secondhand from Sezane! I don’t used Vinted so I was excited when you mentioned it but the US site only had 135 items available total. I’m new to Sezane and am excited about the brand but I wasn’t around to see the shift in the brand.
I think (correct me if I’m wrong) Vinted is fairly new to the US? It’s been around for quite a few years in the UK so is much more widely used. You might have more luck on poshmark?
This hairstyle looks very flattering on you!
Thanks!
I love this video! More people need to see it.
I was SO disappointed to find that some "slow fashion" influencers were being gifted Sezane.
These same influencers talk about "greenwashing" often but then they themselves are drinking the kool-aid. It does make we want them less.
Things also sell out so quickly. Causing high demand. Instead of people making thoughtful choices they just end up buying and returning (again, related to fast fashion). All at the same time as they keep increasing their prices.
I will still continue to buy some of their pants (because I'm tall and their pants actual fit lengthwise without hemming, which I can't find elsewhere) but I'll buy them sparingly. I've already found "replacements" for other items.
Totally agree specially the influencers part.... It puts me off every time a brand seems to relly their marketing strategy on "influencer marketing"...
I discovered Sezane about 2 years ago and have since purchased 3 items from them. I have been looking forward to the day i could afford to gradually fill my closet with staples made of quality materials, such as Sezane. I am finally at that place in my life. I have noticed the increase in Sezane locations and assumed this decrease in value was coming. It's such a shame to see a business with ethics i once agreed with go downhill. Im grateful for your channel, and I look forward to other store recommendations. Thank you!
Agree with all of this. Purchased a blouse this year, so pretty but not a natural fabric and it fell apart instantly. Quite a struggle to get a refund and has put me off even though I generally buy a few pieces each year. Also put off by the models, almost impossible to even gauge how things might look on an over 60 mid size person and don’t like to see the lack of natural fibres, particularly in their summer collections
Super interesting video! Strategy from the company is crucial for the Outer Image of the Brand. I personally love the clean aesthetic French style of your videos so I'd definitely make sure you're on their influencers' list....so I definitely agree with your view.
I have been a subscriber to your channel for a few years now, and always enjoy your honest reviews! I cant wait to see what other brands you discover as more sustainable and ethical options. Christy Dawn has been on my radar a while, but with the higher price point and lack of tryons to see online, I have not actually tried them yet. Doen is another one, I also love Reiss for their quality but not sure if they are ethically made.
I just discovered Sézane last October and was instantly obsessed. I studied the past couple seasons to prep for the winter archives. I was looking at the new collections to build a wish list for future archives but gave up caring because the new collections just came at a relentless speed. It didn’t seem like the slower more special vibe I had initially encountered and has put me off a bit.
I only buy sweaters and slacks from Sezane. My beef is they run out of stock fast and always in the larger sizes first. It seems that more of their customers are buying those sizes so they should order more of that size. I’m 5’6 but their pants are always too long and I have to get them tailored. Do they assume women only wear heels?
For the 6 years I’ve been mail ordering from them my boxes always arrive in the US partially open, it’s like they don’t know how to properly tape a box closed, I’ve emailed them every time about this but nothing changes.
Sezane is not going to gift you if you have negative videos. I follow ZoryMory’s UA-cam and all she does is Sezane videos.
I agree with you, definitely. But... like other brands, we must always analyze the fabrics and the piece itself. I already buy less clothes from Sézane but if there's something worth it, I'll probably buy it again. Kisses
I love your channel because your videos are very honest! I agree with many of your points especially about showing only very slim models and influencers. I’m curious which other companies will you try out. I’m definitely going to be here for it😊
Watch this space! Lots of exciting videos about smaller brands coming
Yes Katie, you are so right…But i love Sézane so much…I can‘t stop…