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Tuesday, February 5, 2013

The "Forever21 Effect"

I am thrilled to have so many new faces around here & I wanted to take the opportunity to talk about my focus on building a functional & versatile wardrobe. I think this first & foremost starts with filling your closet with classic staples.

In the past, my shopping habits could be described like a squirrel gathering nuts for an imminent Winter, but unlike those adorable woodland creatures, I didn't actually need any nuts clothes.
But boy did I want them. 

And while defining the staple "holes" in my personal closet has helped me to shop smarter, it has not totally cured my shopping addiction.

Case in point, I have been drooling over this chic Madewell leather tote for MONTHS, but the price tag has prevented me from clicking "purchase" on this bad boy.
 Madewell transport tote $168.00 
In my mind, $168 is either ONE bag, or EIGHT things from Forever21.
I suffer form quantity-over-quality-itis. 
polka dot pencil skirt $17.80 // studded peplum top $17.80 // polka dot skinnies $24.80 // lace skirt $24.80 // cropped floral pants $22.80 // heart print blouse $19.80 // D'Orsay pointed toe flats $19.80 // scalloped flap purse $24.80
So what would YOU do?
Purchase the expensive staple that will mix & match with many things in your closet, & last for years to come?
OR stock up on the trendy "fast fashion" pieces, that will be fun this year, but probably not be touched again next season?

** I have nothing against Forever21. I think "fast fashion" has its time & place, but can often be a distraction from my game-plan to build a carefully curated closet.

54 comments:

  1. In theory I say go for the bag, but knowing me I'd end up buying a few fast things here and there and then not have the $$ leftover for the bag.Timeless, shoes and bags are the two things I'm planning to start investing a lot more money in and going for quality over quantity. After all, they always fit!

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  2. I would buy the bag. clothes from forever 21 never last and you would use the bag more than how many times you will wear the clothes:)

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  3. I have the same itis! My husband, on the other hand, does not. He encourages me to use $50 to purchase 1 quality item as opposed to 3 non-quality items. There are definitely times when Forever 21 is the way to go i.e. peplums, faux leather, etc. I think trending items are good for fast and inexpensives fixes. The bag is AWESOME I would definitely go for that over the other items.

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  4. get the bag lol!

    XO Meghan
    citrusrefreshingfashion.blogspot.com

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  5. Personally I love F21 because you can get so many items on the cheap. That being said, a leather handbag is something that can last for years to come. I think it just depends what you'd rather have at the moment!

    -Sharon
    The Tiny Heart Necklace Giveaway!

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  6. This is a toughy that I have struggled with for a while. But then I got SO sick of cleaning out my closet of the cheap or trendy pieces I picked up here and there - pieces that I never really LOVED, only LIKED - and sending them to Goodwill (not that there is anything wrong with donating clothes - that is great in and of itself). Now I try to invest more.

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  7. I would definitely buy the staple item. I was a quantity girl in my much younger years but over the last 5 years or so I've become quality over quantity. Mainly because I work in a corporate environment and I know that nice staple pieces and a silk blouse can go much further than a polyester top that is thin, see through and sometimes starts falling apart. I will still but some cheaper trendy pieces though but indefinitely look for staple items that are well made, can last for years and be worn year round. I love that bag!
    walkinginmemphisinhighheels.com

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  8. Ahhh yes The F21 effect has been in full force for me the past couple weekends (went to the new store at the Mall of America and it is AMAZING!) It's hard because I have had some great items that have lasted me awhile from F21 even though they were less expensive, but at the same time, what if I had invested those six pieces into something really quality? I don't know, its hard, but I do love that bag and I do love those trendy pieces! I guess it just depends on everyone's current wardrobe state. For me, it would be smarter to get the bag I have too many clothes!

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  9. I'm not going to lie I catch the forever 21 fever more often than I would like to admit but I rarely covet and love my f21 buys. I have been trying to reign it in and focus on quality pieces and buy fast fashion as one-offs. It always leaves me wanting more but lasts a lot longer!

    ps. I'm still lusting over the same bag!
    http://omgiliveindc.blogspot.com/

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  10. I always waffle between spending money and investing in one big thing, or buying a bunch of littler, less expensive pieces. Honestly, I've had great luck at Forever recently, but I'm turning into an "invest, invest, invest" person, so I might go with the bag!

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  11. You totally nailed it with this post. Honestly, I am a Fast Fashion freak. I think its because I can't get over the "I-can-get-7-items-for-the-price-of-one thing". Its embarrassing, and I am glad to know I am not the only one. Thanks!

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  12. I would buy the purse. Since it will last long and you would get a lot of use out if it

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  13. Agh. I totally suffer from the same problem.

    For me I have 2 "go to" bags that literally I never change. I did spend decent money on them but I also bought them at TJ Maxx. I don't always *need* a new bag each season. That's just not me.

    If however, you are a bag person, and really need a new bag, then I would consider it. It is a gorgeous bag! Though I have a hard time buying anything now unless it's on sale.

    On the other hand I have bought stuff at Forever 21 that has lasted better than stuff I've bought at Anthropologie and there is one huge difference in the price. I really think it is hit and miss. Sadly I think the overall quality of all products (cheap and expensive) has gone down.

    bisous

    Suzanne

    http://bisous.typepad.com/bisous/

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  14. Hmm...that is the question I battle with all the time! I am more for buying expensive staples (denim, handbags, button down shirts, etc) and then buying more trendy items from places like F21 and H&M. That way I can try them out without overspending and then see if I need to invest more money into them and get more expensive options.

    Jill
    Classy
    with a Kick

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  15. This is my ultimate debate! For me, I usually choose quantity over quality mostly because a lot of times the quality can be poor even at a higher price tag. I'm the type of person that gets sick of things quickly {even if it is a staple and is style in style!} so it is better for me to buy things that are less expensive that way when I get sick of them it is okay! I do envy those that have a closet full of quality staples that last them years and maybe someday that will be my closet :)
    Jonna
    Everything but Ordinary

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  16. I completely understand where you're coming from! Lately, every since I got a good job I've been investing in quality items such as a nice coat, a nice bag, boots etc. I do however love my Forever 21 too. I think the best is to set aside a budget and tell yourself what key items you want for your wardrobe that will last and set aside another little budget for those trendy pieces ;)


    great post!


    iambornlippy.blogspot.ca

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  17. Hmm. I'm really on the fence. I'd say 80% of my closet is Target or Old Navy, although I do have a few "investment" pieces. To be honest, the only thing expensive piece of clothing I own that is worth it is my winter jacket. I have had expensive denim and Old Navy denim, and the Target denim has held up better. My Target boots show less wear (and are more comfortable and have better traction) than my $150 boots. I have two Coach purses that haven't lasted as long as a thrifted $4 no-name-brand purse.


    It works out nicely, anyways, because I tend to cycle through clothing fairly quickly (most items in my closet are younger than 2 years old), due to changes in my style, lifestyle, body, etc. Buying cheaper items helps me feel like I'm not wasting money. :)


    theoriginalbrynn.blogspot.com

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  18. I would totally go for the forever 21 purchases!

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  19. I always think the same thing! Quantity! But, I totally agree with you. Going Quality for something that will last for a while in your closet is totally worth it!

    xx
    Giovanna
    www.HeyLoveBlog.com

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  20. This is a dilemma, but, I have found over the years (and much experience) that I keep reaching for the same pieces over and over and they are the quality investment pieces. It is always fun to throw in a trendy item or two but in the long run, the bag will serve you much better! I can see you carrying that Madewell bag to an interview for a post doc position or that DREAM position but, none of those F21 pieces would ever make it!

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  21. I'll be honest, I'm totally over fast fashion rigt now, I'd go with the classic :)
    Brooke @ what2wear, monikabrooke.blogspot.com

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  22. I would buy the bag, but I suspect you already know that about me!

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  23. I have been obsessing over the same bag! So weird to see it here today. I also hesitated because of the price and ended up buying a cheaper similar leather bag from gap while I mull over this bag but I definitely recommend the bag because its just such a beautiful classic!

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  24. Personally, I'd go with the bag---if you've been eyeing it for months, you'll probably love it. And this is coming from someone who just bought $50 worth of F21 stuff. :)

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  25. Quantity over quality gets me every time... but I find myself regretting it b/c I never really have something SUPER nice. Maybe you've just inspired me! Maybe ;)

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  26. I go back and forth... I moved farther away from a F21 so that's been helping...but overall I typically end up going for quantity which probably isn't the best move.

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  27. Hmm good point. I would definitely be feeling the same predicament. I think I would want to be absolutely sure of the quality I'm getting for the major investment. That's what it would come down to for me. We all know (even though we can't help ourselves) that most of your 8 items from F21 won't last you very long through trends or upkeep. If you were really sure, I'd go for the bag =)
    thisevolvinglife.blogspot.com

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  28. I think a balanced closet need both investment pieces and fast fashion pieces. When it comes to a great bag, I usually invest in the perfect one, and wear it for years and years (I've been wearing the same MK bag for the last 8 years, and I still really love it !). Each season I usually invest in 3-4 investment classic pieces that I will wear for years and years, and trow some inexpensive pieces in to remix. That works best for my small budget and I still don't have to give up quality pieces all together !
    My Blog - A Pretty Nest

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  29. I'm such a bargain hunter that I'm a sucker for the quantity thing! While I don't mind paying a bit more for some good quality staples that will definitely last me (like coats, jumpers) I think you can get some awesome things at cheaper stores. And seeing as fashions and my tastes change so frequently I don't want to risk spending big $$ on something I'm not going to like in a year! :)

    life-etcblog.blogspot.com.au

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  30. I think a good mixture of staple & trendy pieces is great to have. That is a beautiful bag!


    http://audreyallure.blogspot.com

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  31. I'm a serious forever 21 effect-ed. As much as I'd like to think I have lots of staples, I love fast fashion. I get tired of my own clothes on a weekly basis, so I've built something that's more fun and eclectic but may not last longer than a year or two. I've come to term with that in my 20's. We'll see if I can grow out of that mindset in my 30s.

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  32. I usually choose quantity over quality, it's sad to say. Except for when it comes to bags, lately I've been trying to stay away from the cheap-o ones that will fall apart. I dropped a good chunk of change on my work bag and have had it for two years now, still looks good as new!


    Kristina


    Kristina does the Internets

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  33. I'm the same way! I have total issues spending money on something of higher quality...unless its a staple piece that will work for ages (i.e. a purse or jacket). I really need to try to get better about it.


    -AJ
    FitTravelerAJ.blogspot.com

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  34. girl you know how I feel about that bag (love love LOVE) and mine is my favorite thing. I think get the bag and for-go the other pieces. You'll be happy about it in a year from now :)


    but trust, I totally suffer the whole getting more things for less money I love forever 21 for "classic" pieces that are still fun. like a lace t-shirt that will get lots of wear but is still fun - ya know?

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  35. Ditto on obsessing over that bag forever! I'd be completely torn too!!

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  36. I usually go with quantity of quality too, but I am loving the purse! The price isn't too bad, so I'd splurge on it :) You can wear it with anything!

    Inspirations by Kayla Rae

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  37. I take into consideration what I'm about to buy and how often I'll use it and if it's both work-appropriate and personal-fun time- appropriate. I would say buy the bag!! It's hard to find good bags out there and I'm personally hoping peplum goes out of style soon hahaha. F21 is hard for me to shop at becasue my students shop there too.

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  38. i've been stalking that madewell bag for awhile too! whyyyy won't it go on sale??
    -- jackiejade.blogspot.com
    -- sephora giftcard giveaway

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  39. I hear you! It's a tough pick.

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  40. I suffer from the same "-itis" and I've been working through the symptoms just like you have. It can be so difficult at times...but I rarely regret a "quality" purchase and frequently regret a "quantity" purchase. Good luck making your decision and I hope that you enjoy whatever piece (or pieces) that you decide to purchase!

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  41. Agh, this is always the dilemma! One or many?? This tote is gorgeous and if you don't already have something like it I would say go for it. =) It will be timeless.

    Avec Amber

    P.S. I'm hosting a giveaway this week! Visit my 100th post giveaway page to learn how you can win a $25 Gap Inc gift card!


    Amber

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  42. Based on all the previous commenters who also want this bag, I'm pretty sure you could persuade them to put this bag on groupon ;)

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  43. I am personally over quality and classic items because it will last for years to come. I do pick up pieces from places like F21 time to time to try out a trend.


    Alice
    www.happinessatmidlife.com

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  44. I, too, suffer from quantity-over-quality-itis. I am laughing out loud over that term, by the way. Kudos!


    I also suffer from "I've been pretending to save up for this item so I'm going to buy it anyway"-itis. That exists, too, right? ;)

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  45. I'm awful... I always choose the quantity option, which is fun for a while but truly won't last the test of time. I guess it's hard to just shell out that money and not be sure that i will like it in a year or two.

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  46. I make these calculations all the time too - I know in my head that something like the bag will be worth it, but I always worry about what great "have to have" things I might encounter after I go ahead and use my budgeted $$ on the investment piece. Sometimes you have to just make sure to not look at clothes the rest of the month if you go quality! And sometimes if I'm fretting about the choices too much, I have to just tell myself to buy ZERO things for a while. And sometimes letting go like that surprisingly feels good! But I think that bag is fab.

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  47. I might be biased because I just got that bag recently, but I'd definitely pick the bag either way. I'm all about buying pieces that will last. While occasionally (verrrry occassionally) fast fashion pieces make it through the season (or the wash), I'm more about the investment.

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  48. Great point! I definitely am trying to start thinking about my future job when I shop, because as much as it feels as if I'll be in grad school for forEVER, one of these days they will hopefully let me graduate! xx

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  49. Definitely another one of the shopping-itis symptoms I have as well! I think that is what is currently manifesting with my leather tote bag obsession! Thank you for sharing!
    xx

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  50. Haha, I swear Fran has started such a trend with this, hehe. it's a gorgeous bag! I am try to gett he best quality I can while getting quantity. I personally have bought entire seasons worth of clothes from F21 and Target (buying the best quality pieces I see, of course, I don't want junk) and then splurged on a Coach bag to go with it. I think high end accessories really style up budget wardrobe pieces, personally.

    I try to make even my F21 purchases contributions to a carefully curated closet these days with a few fast fashion looks thrown in to update everything.

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  51. I find the same thing...In a lot of cases my expensive pieces haven't lasted as well as the Target, F21 and Old Navy options. I have Payless flats that have lasted longer than J Crew ones. Sad, but true. I try to really test seams, look at fabric content and think about how much I will wear an item when 'investing'. Sometimes I find that the items I will wear a lot (e.g. white tee, black turtleneck) will wear fast whether I spend $20 or $120 on it so I get the cheaper option, look after it the best that I can, and go from there.

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  52. I totally suffer from quantity-over-quality-itis TOO! Love the name you've given it. :-) You're not alone. ;-)

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Thank you for your comments, they make my day!!
xx