Compare: Fast Fashion vs High-End Products

Black Friday marks the start of the holiday shopping season, and so we're here to provide a comparison — and a bit of reminder for shoppers — to be more mindful of their spending, and the items they purchase. When shopping for clothes and other stuff, do you usually go for bargain prices, or quality products all the way?

So as the coming holiday parties invite us to make a statement with our outfits, let's take a look at the difference between our favorite brands, and how they're made. Whether you're a fast fashion fan or a big spender on high-end products, here are some factors to consider.

Why buy fast fashion products?

Fast fashion is defined as the apparel that even average-earning Kiwis can buy. This boasts trendy designs at a budget-friendly price. Coming from the name itself, fast fashion has a fast production manufacturing process to meet market demands.

Inexpensive and easy-to-find

Fast-fashion products are easy-to-find and inexpensive. The biggest fast fashion companies release their products much faster than high-end fashion brands, even making up to 52 “micro-seasons” per year, or “at least one new “collection” every week”. Due to this, companies may impose lower prices to stay ahead of their competitors. In terms of long-term sustainability, this one simply doesn't cut it.

Stylish 

Just because it’s affordable, doesn’t mean it’s not fashionable! Fast fashion companies can quickly keep up with the trends, thanks to their low-cost and easily accessible materials. The only caveat is their products can easily go out of fashion, too.

Shorter shelf-life

As long as they’re maintained in good condition, they can last for a while. However, given that the fast-fashion industry manufacture clothes almost nonstop each year, they're also considered "disposable fashion." The clothes are made with cheaper materials to meet a fleeting fashion trend, so they are known to be easily discarded once the new hot trends arrive. And because the overall manufacturing is low-cost, the clothes can easily rip and tear.

Best fast fashion brands

Want to look good without spending a lot of money? Here are some of the most popular fast fashion brands available in New Zealand.

Charles & Keith

Charles & Keith is the perfect place to score stylish and trendy accessories like bags and jewellery. They have products to match styles across all seasons. One of their most coveted item is the moss green micro bag for as low as $100!

H&M

Going for the trendy or aesthetic look? H&M is your best bet! Their fashion pieces boast high-quality designer looks without the high prices that come with it. They have a collection for men, women, kids, and even newborn babies!

Mango

Mango nails the combination of contrasting tones — from their handbags, accessories, trousers, and coats. They have apparel collections for men, women, and even kids! They’re a one-stop-shop place for all your clothing needs as a family.

Why buy high-end fashion products?

On the other hand, high-end fashion is defined as the apparel that costs more than average. They’re often considered as luxury items because they’re made with high-quality materials, and sourced from the finest raw materials. When stored and handled properly, they can literally outlive the owner.

Sustainable

High-end fashion items are usually made of natural fibres from animals, plants, and other natural materials. These materials are farmed sustainably to not cause harm to the environment. Some materials can also be sourced from recycled materials, making these products even more sustainable!

High quality

High-end fashion items are made with top-of-the-line quality materials and process! Every piece of clothing is carefully made by popular designers, artisans and experienced craftsmen. High-end fashion companies do this to ensure nothing goes to waste in their eco-friendly materials.

Long-lasting

Due to the natural materials, high-end products are sure to last you a lifetime. Even if these products have already deteriorated, you can easily repair or restore them. However, all these great materials, high-quality production, and long-lasting products don’t come cheap! They can be really expensive, with a single shirt costing as much as $150! 

Best high-end fashion brands

If you value the artistry behind your clothes, you should get one from a luxury brand! Every piece is carefully crafted to make a statement in your clothing. Here are some popular high-end fashion brands you can consider investing in.

Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton has a long history of producing high-quality handbags. From their humble beginnings in 1854, they’ve since expanded to include clothing, belts, leather goods, jewellery, shoes, streetwear, and more.

Gucci

Who doesn’t recognise the GG logo of Gucci? They have a wide array of luxury products including belts, sunglasses, bags, clothing, and other accessories. Recently, they’ve also expanded their line to include swimwear as well.

Chanel

Chanel started in the fragrance industry, but they’ve since expanded to create an exquisite clothing line. They have clothing for men, women, and kids, as well as handbags, footwear, eyewear, jewellery, belts, and other accessories. 

What to choose for your holiday outfit?

Of course, buy what you can afford. If you don’t have the money for luxury items, buy fast fashion products. It’s cheap, stylish, and can last you a long time! It’s a great alternative to look your best this holiday without spending your life savings just for an outfit. 

If you have the money to buy from designer brands, why not purchase one this holiday? You can ensure the quality of the products as well as the careful manufacturing of the products. Plus, it’s guaranteed to last you a lifetime. 

Great news is, the biggest sale events are coming! You may score these high-end products without the sky-high luxury price tag!

Read: Add To Cart: The Best Black Friday Deals From NZ’s Biggest Brands

Be the first to know about big markdowns!

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are only a few days away! So, make sure to be the first to know about the biggest discounts, cash backs, points, and benefits of these luxury brands. Sign up to their online newsletters, and get notified wherever you are!

Get an unlimited mobile plan to keep yourself posted. Compare the best mobile plan that fits your needs here at CompareBear!