Why Does Shopping Feel So Uninspiring in 2026?
There’s no shortage of clothing available in 2026, and yet getting dressed has rarely felt so uninspiring. I’ve always believed that what we wear matters, not in a performative way, but as a quiet act of self-respect. Lately, though, the fashion industry is testing that belief.
If you’ve been in a department store recently or spent time scrolling through your usual retailers online, you’ve probably felt it too. The racks look full, but nothing really lands. Everything feels oddly interchangeable. We’re surrounded by clothes, yet starved for anything that feels distinctive or worth pausing over. It’s a strange contradiction, and one that’s made shopping feel more like a chore than a pleasure.
That disconnect is what I want to talk about here, because it isn’t just about trends. It’s about what happens when sameness replaces style, and how that quietly reshapes the way we relate to our wardrobes.
The Current Retail Landscape
Stepping into a favorite boutique or department store lately can feel underwhelming. Inventory looks thin, and retailers seem to be playing it so safe that everything blurs into the same mix of beige, denim, and neutrals. I notice it immediately when I walk the floor. I’m looking for one piece that stops me in my tracks, and instead, I see rows of basics that could be from anywhere.
It isn’t just happening in stores. I’m seeing the same thing online, where brand identities I once relied on for a distinct point of view now blur together. Retailers may be trying to steady themselves in a fast-moving market, but from the shopper’s side, the experience has lost much of its spark.
Part of this sameness comes from consolidation. Many brands have been acquired by larger parent companies that keep the original name but streamline everything behind the scenes. Design teams are merged, sourcing is standardized, and risk is minimized. On the rack, the label may be familiar, but the clothes often look indistinguishable from what’s hanging next door.
The Sizing Lottery & The Return Trap
Sizing has become wildly inconsistent. A size 8 can fit like a 4 in one brand and a 12 in another, which turns shopping into guesswork before you’ve even reached the fitting room.
That’s why so many of us now order multiple sizes of the same piece just to find one that works. But in 2026, returns are no longer simple. Fees are creeping in, return windows are shrinking, and suddenly you’re managing logistics instead of enjoying the process.
When sizing is unreliable, and returns come with penalties, even good clothes start to feel like too much effort.
Shopping with an Algorithm
Amazon is more dominant than ever, and while the convenience is hard to beat, it’s turned fashion into a “commodity” rather than an experience. When you buy clothes where you buy your laundry detergent, something is lost. The algorithm starts showing you what’s cheap and fast, not what’s beautiful or well-made. It’s great for a last-minute pack of socks or a pair of shoes, but it’s not exactly the place to find a piece that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
The Quality Gap & The High Cost of “Real” Fabric
Fast fashion is moving faster than ever, and the constant newness has come at the expense of quality. Unless I’m willing to spend a significant amount, many of the fabrics I see now pill, itch, or lose their shape after one wash. Wanting a wardrobe that lasts shouldn’t feel like a scavenger hunt, but it does. I’ve become far more selective, choosing one well-made piece over a closet full of things that look worn by next month.
You might find my guide on how to shop for investment pieces helpful for making those big decisions with confidence.
How I’m Navigating the Fashion Industry in 2026
So, how am I keeping my style standards high in this climate? It just takes a bit more strategy and a lot more intention.
Becoming a Savvy Shopper: I check every single tag for natural fibers because I know they’ll stand the test of time. I’ve also stopped boredom scrolling. If I don’t have a specific need for it, I don’t buy it. This keeps me from settling for those mediocre items that just clutter up the closet.
Feel like your shopping habits have been a bit off lately? Read my post on common shopping mistakes and how to avoid them. It’s a great refresher on how to keep your head clear when the retail landscape feels overwhelming.
Consider Slow Fashion Brands: I seek out brands that prioritize ethical production and thoughtful design. They may cost more upfront, but I’d rather invest in one well-made piece I’ll wear for years than cycle through things that don’t last.
If you are looking for a curated list of retailers that still value craftsmanship and cater to a more sophisticated aesthetic, I’ve put together a guide on the best places to shop for mature women that you might find incredibly helpful.
Dressing with Intention: I’m focusing on my personal style rather than micro-trends, choosing pieces I can dress up or down and using tailoring to turn something merely fine into something that looks intentional.
Why I’m Rethinking Staples Altogether
Lately, I’ve started questioning the idea that a great wardrobe is built primarily on staples. Of course, we all need reliable pieces, but I’m finding that they’re rarely what make an outfit feel personal. What actually carries my style forward are the slightly unusual pieces. The ones with an interesting cut, a distinctive fabric, or a detail that feels intentional rather than generic.
When everything in stores starts to look the same, those unique pieces matter more, not less. They do the work of expressing personality when the basics blur together. I’d rather invest in one piece that feels specific and thoughtful than keep adding interchangeable versions of the same “essential.” In a landscape full of sameness, individuality isn’t indulgent…it’s practical.
The more I pay attention, the clearer this becomes: the problem isn’t that fashion has disappeared. It’s that distinction has.
When everything is designed to appeal to everyone, very little feels worth choosing. That’s why I’m shopping differently now. I’m slower, more selective, and far less interested in rounding out a list of essentials.
What holds my attention are the pieces that feel specific. The ones that introduce a point of view, even quietly. Those are the clothes that carry personal style, especially in a market flooded with sameness.
In 2026, buying fewer things isn’t the hard part. Choosing things that actually say something is. Are you still reaching for “essentials,” or are you waiting for something more specific to appear?
A very thought-provoking essay! I am forwarding to my 20-something daughter – she finds shopping for clothes that fit her gorgeous body exhausting…she wants natural fibers and quality construction. We’ve both been sewing for a while and are leaning further into that skill – even if it’s reworking something from a second-hand shop. Thanks for the list!
I’m a shopper and sometimes I can be an impulse shopper. Thanks to your tips and suggestions I have become more selective in what I purchase. I don’t need my closet to be overflowing just with enough selections that I feel comfortable, confident and like to wear.
Thanks for you help in getting me to that place.
Consider the KnitWell group’s impact on women’s fashion: they operate Ann Taylor, Chicos, Haven Well Within, Lane Bryant, Loft, Soma, Talbots and White House Black Market. It’s not your imagination if you think they are all selling the same things.
This is such a timely and accurate post. My girlfriends and I who do still want to look great at the over 70, find clothes out there boring. I have started matching things with my “older” Chico fashions and I keep getting asked; “where did I get it”. Even some of my Chico managers have whispered how boring their fashion is. I do agree Nordstrom is one of the few stores that are somewhat original and still have styles for the older woman.
You echoed my thoughts about shopping for clothing the last several years. I live in a small town so going to the mall and shopping in department stores used to be a nice treat. I liked browsing the new styles and usually saw many things I liked, but that has all changed. As you said, many of the clothes and accessories look the same, have the same cuts and styles, and basically look boring. Shopping is no longer a treat, but a letdown in most cases. I also find myself reaching for my “vintage” pieces from years ago.
I think I have always looked for something specific that best expresses who I am. I have been pulled away at times with so many emphasizing staples and capsules. Sure, I have staples, but I need pieces that say and feel me. I agree that I have been guilty of fast fashion and boredom purchases. I just realized recently how many of those I dont wear due to pore fit and quality.
You totally hit the nail on the head with this one! Perfectly, beautifully said. I cannot agree with you more, thank you!!!
Thank you for your observation. It confirms exactly what I have been feeling. I haven’t purchased anything new since late last summer! Even the fashion colors bore me.
I’ve noticed that when investment funds take over retailers, from department stores to women’s clothing chains that have stood the test of time, blandness, cheapness and demise follow. Example: Why take the chairs out of dressing rooms? How do I know what a pair of pants will look like when I sit down if I can’t sit down?
The department stores are all gone. The clothing chains are closing. Fabric stores have closed, so sewing isn’t an option. I’ll wait for all my current clothes to wear out and worry about it then.
I agree Jennifer. I love to shop and have closets full to prove it, but lately I’ve become a lot more discriminating about what pieces I buy. Even classics from the retailers that I frequent are looking the same.
It’s been nice taking a break from shopping. When I see a unique piece, whether online or in person, that’s what I’ll buy, but even that is becoming less frequent, ’cause frankly, I’m bored. I think you put your finger on why!
Excellent post. Everything you wrote is true. Stores often have limited inventory and some items are only online. I haven’t come across restocking fees for clothing.
That’s going to be a problem. As you mentioned, sizing is not consistent and I often order two sizes to see what fits. The restocking fee will definitely deter me from ordering. I don’t buy much from Amazon.
I can really relate to the sizing dilemma, which is why I don’t like to buy on-line- yet many stores just don’t carry enough inventory for me to be able to try on multiple sizes. However, ordering the same item in 2 different sizes plus in petite or regular is overwhelming!
Great discussion. I think we’re all coming to the same conclusion. I used to enjoy going into department stores and boutiques and even high-end shops to see beautiful things, and learn from the aspirational ones. Covid was a big factor: huge impact on on-line and reduced inventory in stores. But one of the biggest changes has been fast fashion. I’m guilty to a degree – buy my grandkids $6 tees at Target as well as high-priced, long-lasting ones from Hanna Andersson. We are the market and we vote with our $$$. If we do invest in fewer, good quality items, the market analysts will follow and change will happen.
Fabulous article. This really resonated with me.
A very disheartening and heartening piece at one time.
I live in New Zealand with a population of only 5.3 million. Bloggers who cater for mature women are non existent here, hence why I follow overseas ones. We have always had limited options compared to global offerings but there were influences from overseas. Not any more. The homogenised stock has become like wearing a school uniform and tracking down anything outside this box is very wearing on the soul. We increasingly find mass produced, low quality (don’t get me started on greenwashed ‘recycled polyester’ !) goods abound and local designers simply can no longer compete.
So yes, it is disheartening that boutiques are vanishing from our shores but (heartening ?!!) we are obviously not alone given that a country, with a 340 million population, suffers from the same thing.
I’ve also noticed that sizes vary widely within a merchant. I’m a plus size and stores are now stopping at size 16. Therefore, I am taking a chance when I order clothes in my size. Some things fit…others don’t. I’ve returned and repurchased multiple items because the size of the clothes doesn’t align correctly with the size chart. Shopping has become a guessing game that is very frustrating.
Our few boutiques disappeared during the pandemic. We are a small town in the front range mountains of southern Colorado. Yet there are so many stores that are empty and for rent in our Main Street area. It is sad. My beef is sagging necklines on tees. The ones that have held up the best are St. John’s Bay from JCP! I’m petite but not skinny anymore at 135-138 lbs. and 5’1” tall. My waist is my problem but not a single brand addresses this. There is curvy which addresses tiny waist and larger hips and thighs. But I have the opposite problem that nobody addresses and I think a lot of women have this problem. And inseams are too long even in some petites. I’m shopping in my closet for the time being. Thanks Jennifer for this blog.
That’s a great place to shop, our closets!
Hi, Jennifer: Love your column! Re: Your headline: “Why Does Shopping Feel So Uninspiring?” Fashion frequently mirrors what’s going on in society, and there’s plenty going on today that takes away from fashion – and makes it uninspiring. Perhaps when there’s a little more hope on the horizon, there will be more inspiring fashion. High, unaffordable prices, for many, along with poor workmanship and thin, cheap fabrics, do not make for great clothing. Here’s hoping things will turn around, as they usually do. I hope you print my comment. Thank you!
Ahh I wondered why when I looked at clothing in stores I could just riffle through so much and just find nothing thats interesting at all. So I buy my basics there but to add interesting things I just cannot part with many of my older clothes in natural fibers with lots of detailing features that make them unique. I dont know much about clothing but when I visit thrift stores I know when a certain piece of clothing really draws me in. I love a lot of the quality items you find but my lifestyle just doesnt call for very expensive items and as I get older my shape and size are changing and I’d be upset with having to part with such quality items.
One of the reasons I’ve sewn my own clothes is because I don’t see anyone wearing the same thing I am. I like to buy high quality fabrics and use good patterns usually Vogue. My goal for this year is to not buy any clothes and only make my clothes. I have always prefered quality over quantity.
Thanks for your articles. I enjoy reading them.
I don’t shop often, but hoping to refresh what had become a boring wardrobe, I recently spent an afternoon in a large mall. I came away empty handed and disappointed. Everything I saw looked just as boring as what was already in my closet! A few days later, I visited a small town thrift store and came away with two pieces that I found more appealing than anything I saw at the mall!
That’s fabulous
I have noticed the same thing. I guess basics are the default? I’m not buying much at the moment because of the warm colors dominating the market. I have been looking at the higher end clothing more lately for natural fibers.
And surprisingly, I’m starting to like to try on the garment in store, because the sizing and return policies are not working for me.
Good article
I’ve noticed that fabric quality is not what it used to be. A simple top made from a quality fabric looks, feels, and wears differently than something made from a poor quality fabric. Unfortunately, I no longer feel that the clothes from some of the designers/brands I’ve bought for years will automatically be in fabrics I’ll like. That means I either need to be able to shop in person or the store has to have a great return policy.
There is a Canadian site called Dream-Pants.com for a variety of really good Canadian designers. They are really easy to deal with, anything can be returned with no charge and they do ship to the US no problem! They have great clothes and maybe a little different that what you are seeing in the US.
Thanks Irene!
Jennifer, you hit the nail on the head! Thank you for highlighting some brands that still care about style and quality. I had passed over most of these brands because in the past they have not really been size inclusive on the small end. (0-2). I will now include them in my search when shopping!
I thoroughly enjoy reading all your posts but since I live in Florida I have been kind of patiently waiting for your pots on lighter weight clothing. I’ve watched in envy as bomber jackets and moto jackets for colder weather areas were linked, they are so cute but way too hot to layer where I live. This morning it finally occured to me to ask if you knew if anyone made very lightweight versions of these types of jackets so that I could also do some cute layering with my outfits?
Check Tommy Bahama who carries a lot of linen and lighter weight fabrics. You could also try Nordstrom and type in linen and cotton bomber jacket. Here is a cute cotton one that comes in several colors.
I’ve been feeling this sameness in everything I’m looking at clothes wise. I just thought it was the time of year. I like the idea of waiting for something unique to purchase that stands out. Especially since since I’ve been giving away so many things that all seem to be alike. Thanks for the post, very thoughtful.
I’ve notice that about my donation bag too
Excellent post? I hadn’t really thought about the sameness from store to store but I do know I’ve been buying less only because I can’t find something that stands out and says Buy Me! I now skip the malls. I think looking for those smaller, independent stores will have pieces that are a little different.
I agree. I wish we had more options locally so I’m hunting them out online.
We have a shop on the island called Mercedes Lane Too. A lot of what they have leans toward boho but they have some treasures. Their linen pieces are a little different and nicely made. Also, a Sharon’s. It’s under new ownership. she’s younger and orders many pieces from Portugal and England. Again, different than the big box stores. I’m sure Vancouver must have some lovely independent owned s
I found an amazing summer dress at Coast and Cottage a few summers ago. I’ve never had luck at Mercedes Lane but I’ll have another try. A to Zebra was amazing. I was sorry to see it go.
You are right on Jennifer, that is why I shop thrift stores and consignment shops. We have some amazing thrift shops here on the west coast. My favorite is the American Cancer Society’s Discovery shop; it is more like a boutique than a thrift shop. I always say, “It’s the thrill of the hunt”. If you’re willing to put in the time, you will find some amazing, unique things.
This is a great post, Jennifer. I feel exactly the same about the lackluster styles currently in stores. I’m doing more “shopping my closet,” but I often find gaps where that “certain” piece would make an acceptable outfit come together as something special.
Thank you for making me feel not so alone or crazy when all I see out there in terms of quality pieces is a sea of sameness.
Onward and upward – looking for those unique finds that women of a certain age deserve!
Focusing on “ the basics” over choosing a piece that calls “ I am interested “ has produced a winter uniform for me : jeans, light sweater, heavier cardigan, something on a pendant over my neck. Plus it’s been so cold in the Northeast that I choose my puffer coat over the fun vintage one every single day! I like your idea of shopping for that beautiful piece that speaks, and enjoyed the photos of the long kimono and blouse over basics.
I wish I’d kept that kimono!
Funny that you should post this. I recently went into two of my “go-to” stores and came out empty handed. As you said, there was nothing that was unique or inspiring, that I didn’t feel that I already have, as limited of a wardrobe that I own. I was really disappointed because I have some “fun money” to spend!
It’s pervasive. I know it’s big business but I’m so bored with what’s out there.
Wow! You expressed just what I have been thinking. Thank you for putting it into words. I am resenting that retailers feel that they can rely on instagram influencers to sell their products . The sameness is underwhelming or is it more overwhelming. Either way it is dull, dull, dull. Also annoying is that retailers stock little in their stores or close their stores and do not offer consistent sizing, especially petite sizes, yet expect me to pay to shop their products. I am becoming more and more resistant to paying shipping for purchases and returns. Perhaps this explains why thrifting has become so popular especially with the next generation of shoppers.
I’m relieved to know its not just me who is not impressed with the current offerings. I’ve walked into stores, circled once and walked out again. Paging through online shops without clicking on a single item. As you stated: “everything blurs into the same mix of beige, denim, and neutrals.” Occasionally a catalog arrives with some interesting options but I’m petite don’t know how their sizes run and factoring in the cost of shipping and likely returning (or else paying for alterations) I usually decide its not worth the effort. I wonder how many of us have holiday gift cards sitting in a drawer waiting for something worth spending it on? Thanks for a great article
Perfectly put, Jennifer! I agree wholeheartedly. Your posts have really inspired me to seek out different, unique pieces that express my style, but I’m so disappointed with what I see in the stores. The same basic crewnecks in the same predictable 6 colors. Even if I find a unique fabric, it’s made of polyester or doesn’t fit. The homogenization of offerings is so discouraging! It extends to so many aspects of retail, too (20 different tweaks of ranch and Italian salad dressing in the supermarket, but little else…). Please keep posting on this. Maybe retailers will notice, and at least those of us in your community will feel less alone 😀
Thank you for consolidating random emotions I have about shopping. Understanding our sentiments does make an action plan easier to formulate!
Yes! It does for me
I completely agree. I’ve never been much of a shopper, but on the rare occasion I step into women’s retail stores, I find them very dull. My solution has been to resume shopping at vintage/thrift stores and charity shops, something I enjoyed in my college days and early career. The quality of the clothing is much higher, the prices are amazing, and the pieces I find are unique. I recently thrifted a 100% lambs wool men’s blazer which is currently at the tailor. I am much more inspired to wear something I love than end up looking like everyone else, even at this age. Thank you for your post and your genuine messages.
Heading off to the consignment stores. Hadn’t thought of that, so thanks for your post.
I like having classic basic pieces in my “core” colours. I prefer to use accessories as my statement pieces, or classic items in interesting fabrics. Right now, I’m wearing my cream waxed jeans a lot to give my other pieces some umpf.
Excellent post, Jennifer. I only recently noticed that when I’ve taken a unique piece from the back of my closet, I feel more myself, and garner positive comments even from very young women. It’s the unusual touch on my usual jeans and sweater “uniform” that puts the spark in my day. Those types of unusual garments are indeed getting harder to find.
That’s a great idea!
Part of the problem with purging my closet of clothes that are tight is that those older things have better fabric and are more interesting. It’s depressing to walk into a store where you can actually imagine all the clothes arriving in cellophane wrappers, tightly stacked into a box that was crammed into a giant shipping container from China.
That does take some of the delight out of the clothes, I agree
I was looking at your list of stores to shop for mature women. I have in the past always liked to keep an eye on merchandise from Soft Surroundings because I could sometimes find something “different” there. Fast forward……they were acquired by Coldwater Creek in 2023 (I’m not so much a fan of, have to be careful with quality). So now I think twice before ordering from SS. Yes the shopping scene sure has changed, with less stores to actually go in and touch and feel the fabric. The Chico’s in our town closed it’s store front this month and I noticed that they’re adjusting their return policy as well for reward members (cost savings I’m sure).
I’m betting it’s cost cutting too
My local Talbots closed a week ago. I live in a 100,000+ population city. Chicos and Dillard’s is it. I heard Loft is going out too. Dillard’s clothes look the same every year. I won’t mention JCP and Kohl’s. Very sad.
That is sad. Online shopping seems the only way to get variety in our choices.
I agree 100%. I used to buy some beautiful, unique pieces from SS . I especially loved many of the skirts and dresses. I recently went on line to purchase some things for an upcoming cruise and was so disappointed at what they have now. What you have mentioned about being bought by another company explains a lot.
Jennifer, your assessment is dead on for what I am finding and feeling about the current places I used to love to shop. Thank you I thought it was just me.
Enthusiastically agree but….on the other hand – Most bloggers very logically promote having the ”bones/foundation” garments covered. Simple, classic, neutral basics that one can then add personality and excitement to with a standout piece, unique color combination or accessories. Even though I’m fortunate to be able to afford “quality”, those foundation garments get worn/laundered frequently and require regular replacement. I’ve been frustrated as often by limited selection of brown pants as I have been by not finding anything that says “me” with “gotta have it” conviction. Trends among retailers happen as they do everywhere else and unfortunately balance in the variety available is hard to come by.
I totally agree about sameness! I find the word “essential” annoying and always have. I also stay away from clothing shown me b/c I’ve bought shirt x or pants y. I am the same way about news: if a site suggests an article, I won’t open it. An issue, which you’ve nailed, is that distinction can come at a price. I’m leaning into Boden lately b/c I won’t see other women wearing the same thing. I’ve also bought a couple of pieces from local boutiques that are well made and distinctive.
I’m envious of your boutiques. They’re disappearing where I live.
Yes, yes, THIS! I am not one to wear trends. I tend to go for the classics with a pop of color for surprise. Pearls and silk scarfs have become my signature accessories. Thus, I have been honing down my closet to basic essentials.
I had fallen victim to A) Dressing in all neutrals that make me fade into the shadows or B) Dressing in trends that actually make me feel uncomfortably NOT like myself.
For 2026 I too have vowed to only invest in essential, timeless pieces that will fill out my basic wardrobe. And be patient to find those fabulous pieces that say “Me!” It took me many years and a bulging closet of nothing to wear to figure this out! LOL
Yes!! I’m still figuring it out 😉
Jennifer, as usual you are on to something. You have nailed the reasons for the sameness (I’d add venture capital and the ubiquitous capsule wardrobe). My thoughts aren’t as organized as yours, but I’ve tried to figure out why I’m not satisfied with my wardrobe and I think it’s because I keep buying “basics” and “staples,” and then I wonder why everything is boring. This is different from having a streamlined, minimal style. Now that I have a new size and body type figured out, I’m focusing on what brings joy. So far that’s wearing my colors, wearing accessories I have curated over the years, and figuring out how to wear things I love and have held on to but never quite know how to style. For example, I have a beautiful kimono. While that’s a bit boho for me, it really isn’t because it’s black, red and cream (from Allsaints). Need to pull that puppy out! When you don’t live in a big city, the buying and returning gets so old. I’m trying to take a lesson from my GenZ son and thrift more. I also want to introduce more slow fashion and artisan items. There is just a lot of cr*p to wade through to get there.
That kimono sounds wonderful. I’m not overly boho but I do like to dabble. Minimal is often confused for plain but you do need interesting details or it looks unfinished.
I love your posts as I am exactly the same height, weight and colour as you are…I know you love neutrals….I find (spring) colours near my face add character and light up my face…especially V neck pullovers to tone with the pants, ( over cream thin polos at this time of year), and long scarves over coats..
My favourite posts by far from you are ones which show how to pare a basic piece in many different ways as I am also firm believer for environmental reasons in a lesser number of good quality pieces, which will last. Thank you for your column.
Jennifer,
I hear you. Shopping for clothes has actually become a drag. IMO, many of my favorite mid level retailers have really dropped in quality. Less natural fabrics, prints that don’t line up at seams, shoddy detail work. Yet their prices haven’t dropped with the quality. Frankly, it’s easier to just avoid them 😞. Upside ?… shop the closet and save your money.
Another thoughtful blog, Jennifer!
Thank you for highlighting the sameness in all the shops. When I was in London last fall, most of the shops looked like what we have in the US. It’s a global issue in my opinion. Thank you for highlighting brands that strive for something unique in both quality and style.
Oh no, that’s a shame!
You are so right! I thought I was the only one who noticed. How do other countries manage to have consistent sizing but here in North America it’s a shopping game to find the correct size. Then all the sameness. Saving me money because some of these styles and colours just doesn’t work for me. I was hoping spring would be better but you aren’t giving me much hope. I am in Canada so returns have always been a challenge if we buy from the US.
I love this post and fully agree with everything you wrote. I would also add that too many stores describe an item as a cotton coat or a linen skirt and the lining is polyester. Not only is it deceptive, but who on earth is looking for a 100% linen/cotton item lined in polyester? The entire point of linen is that it’s cool and breathable. These are often not inexpensive items either. So I guess my comment is actually a PSA to remind people to check the real fabric content on an item labeled as 100% linen or cotton or wool or even silk before buying!!
I agree! A Polyester lining defeats the whole purpose.
Brava! Well said. I couldn’t agree more.
Thank you!
It’s interesting you mention how returns are becoming more problematic. I recently purchased my first two clothing items from Amazon, never ever have I purchased clothing from them. Sadly I had to return both. Amazon now goes has you go through a series of screens with questions about why you are returning. I was shocked but at least I learned not to purchase clothing on Amazon and they did accept both returns.
I’ve also had Amazon tell me to just keep the item and have given me a refund. That tells you the monetary value is zilch if they won’t cover return postage.
A hugely important factor that played/plays a role in this was the Covid pandemic and how it changed everything. Supply chain problems, notable decline in quality, sourcing upheaval, etc. Many developed a not great dependence of ordering online and foregoing the real experience. It is good to point out the hamster wheel of buying the blur. And here we are.
Instead, buying few things that are meaningful, spark very positive feelings/emotions, and of good quality are the things that become literally the fabric of our lives. I have certain sweaters, scarves, jewelry, unique items that remind me of years of great experiences. I feel great when I use these items. I think we all can identify with this. When a woman uses these special, far from basic items, they put a certain something into her step and her aura. Here’s to distinction and smart shopping for the long haul!
And you forgot to mention tariffs. My favorite online store (a boutique, based in NYC, not a brand or chain) closed up shop because dealing with tariffs was such a hassle.
This article is so true. I am retired and a very casual dresser that loves cotton and hates spandex. Even the brands that I have worn for years are thinner and just cheaper looking. I don’t like to shop so it is truly a nightmare now.
Thanks for your articles. Barb
Timely article. I thought the reason I was uninspired was just that I’m getting older and don’t need the variety of clothing anymore that I used to when I was working. I have felt that Chico’s has stepped up its act, at least for me. I think it’s now owned by the same company that owns other lines so I thought maybe a benefit was a different designer pool. As for natural fibers, I purchased a blouse from Talbots recently and was surprised that it was 100% cotton and not coated with sizing to make it no-iron. It is a really nice blouse and I couldn’t believe all of the nasty comments about how thin and wrinkly the fabric was.