Hey everyone,
I'm curious to get some opinions on this, as it seems to be a bit of a sore point sometimes, and as a fledgling designer, it is one issue that can't seem to be ignored.
When it comes to an outfit, particularly in the 'designer' category where things do tend to be marked up, if not by the designer then by the stores, does it really matter where something is made, if the quality is GOOD?
People seem to get annoyed at designers charging what they see is excessive amounts because it was made in a particular country. But if the quality is just as good or better than an item made in france or italy, or the US, should it matter?
All thoughts welcome
Good topic
irresistable_loz!
In my opinion, there is far too much marketing associated with the country of origin label on consumer goods. People have preconceived ideas as to what something made in Italy, or France etc will be like in terms of quality as opposed to something made in China, or India etc. Perhaps at the beginning of the developing world this was relevant, but I think nowadays it is becoming increasingly irrelevant. Particularly given the influence of technology, which is bringing much more equality in manufacturing processes.
I think it is easy to forget that China has had a huge manufacturing industry for some time; longer than most other countries. They have incredible infrastructure that allows them to produce consumer goods efficiently and effectively. Sure, they do have a sector of there manufacturing industry that specialises in inexpensive products. But I'm also convinced that they have manufacturers capable of producing exceptionally high quality products, including garments.
There is a huge amount of influence that goes on in-between the manufactured product and the consumer. Like a designers reputation, price points, retail environment, workers rights etc, which are always going to sway a person to either buy a product or not, regardless of quality. And that is where I think there is a real problem.
People will overlook poor quality in terms of construction or fabrication and finishing techniques for example, and purchase an item for the simple fact that it was "Made in Italy" and associated with a prestigious brand. And alternatively people will dismiss good quality because of a "Made in China" label.
With the exception of a few brands, who have established persistent quality control of their goods, and are known for high quality products it will always be a blurry line.
It is entirely up to the consumer to be able to judge whether something is good quality or not, and to pay accordingly.
What makes this all the more interesting is that clearly consumer behaviour has changed dramatically over the last half century, particularly in relation to clothing. Quality used to be paramount, as longevity in garments was of the utmost importance. People valued hand finishing techniques for example, that ensured a better fit, and higher durability in the long run. Today fashion is a much faster moving entity that actively promotes change on a scheduled basis. A considerable amount of people now buy clothing with the idea that it will soon become obsolete, therefore quality takes a backseat to affordability and brand association.
I find that frightening for a number of reasons, but namely the environmental impact.
It has been talked about, but the global recession may have in a small way changed the way consumers spend. With quality being an important factor again as to whether you buy something or not. I'm sceptical, only because I have a feeling the marketing industry and the media are far too influential, and consumers will quickly be swayed by excess and materialism that is offered to them via means of credit. But if we really did change our thinking, designers, manufacturers and retailers would be forced to reconsider the fundamentals of a good business. Which is providing quality services or goods at a fair price. In my opinion, it is no coincidence that Uniqlo (as one example) has recorded increased earnings over the last year; as from my experience, they provide high quality, well designed garments at fair prices. From what I have bought, there is an acceptable balance between longevity in the construction quality and the design, to that of the price. Consumers do recognise this (even if it's on a subconscious level) and do return for more.
I for one am thankful that I have enough of a background in design, garment construction, and textiles to know whether something is good or poor quality, well I hope I do anyway.
It is up to the consumer to be educated independently on what it is they are buying regardless of what the label says. It sounds cliche, but it is true that the consumer does in-fact have all the power. It's just a shame most don't realise, and are relatively uneducated or simply uninterested when it comes to quality in garments.
) the tag don't indicate where it was made because they don't want their customers to know where exactly it was made ...
