Designer Labels. Is it necessary?

Chanel, Burberry, Ted Baker, Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton and Dolce & Gabbana are examples of high end designer labels that you'll find in the fashion world. Prestigious and outrageous, you see models strutting in these designer outfits on the catwalk during Fashion Week.

You see celebrities wearing them everywhere and you've always dreamt of having one too. But is it worth it? Do you wear it often or is it going to sit in your cupboard? Can you afford it? These are the question one often ask themselves and today, we'll be talking about is it necessary to own designer label items. Below are some of the good and bad of designer labels:

Good

• Made with good quality materials which are durable and last longer.
• Fits better and comfortable
• Boost confidence on social or financial status
• Some designs are unique and rare

Bad

• Price - Are you really paying for higher quality materials, or are you paying for the brand name?
• There are many replicas on designer labels, making it cheaper and affordable to the masses.
• Does your pay check allow you to indulge in designer labels or are you breaking your savings to purchase these items?
• Can you keep up with the amount of outfits that the designer labels have?

Some people think that designer labels are everything and in a way it makes them feel superior. But first of all, you need to have a fashion sense or basic knowledge in fashion. If not, wearing those brands wouldn't do much to you anyway as it's not considered stylish.

Besides that, you can find most designer labels inspired clothing everywhere in the market today. Obviously, the quality between these two is a huge difference and they tend to wear off faster but fashion changes every time according to seasons. Therefore, it's better to invest in cheaper brands in those outfits that you know that you wouldn't wear for a long time.

Here are a few tips on whether to purchase designer labels:

1. Purchase what you can afford

Let's face it, most of us can't afford buying designer label items. Although designer labels are much better quality wise, it's best to think twice on whether you can afford the particular garment or not. Investing in a pair of designer shoes for long term use is advisable as it's more comfortable compared to replicate ones. But if you can find a cheaper pair that gives you equal comfort, go for it!

2. Choose wisely

You would not want to spend RM90 on a pair of cotton T-Shirt that will probably wear off in a few months. With that amount, you could be better off buying a nice dress for yourself already. Consider the amount you're paying for that particular garment and always keep in mind whether it is worth it or not. If you pay a hefty amount for things that do not last long, why purchase it in the first place?

3. Change your mindset. Tell yourself that designer labels is not everything

Although wearing designer outfits can boost your ego or makes you happier with it, it's your own style and taste that makes the cut. You must know what type of clothing suits your body and personality best. Some quality of cheaper brands is actually better than the ones by designer labels. Imagine the amount of money you'll be saving!

So, you have a fair share of my opinion on designer labels. If you're label obsessed, do consider those tips to help you decide again whether it's really necessary to purchase everything 'designer label'.

Signing off,

Li Chuen DMC09