Monday, March 2, 2009

Price - Value Relationship

Everyone wants a deal - who can blame them when over the holidays no matter where you looked, everything was on sale. But now, it seems like what we all really want is an alignment of a products' price/value/quality that helps us feel good about making a purchase, instead of guilty.

If this is correct, then the need for swimwear that offers quality along with great fit, color, style at a reasonable price is stronger than ever. Not every swimsuit is the same, some - well most actually - are speedily made in China of fabric that isn't designed to last. If buying something that you'll have to replace after wearing it a few times (also known as disposable fashion) appeals to you, then these brands (and no, we won't name them here) are perfect for you.

But lets' say you care more about how you spend your hard-earned dollars, and that you want the swimsuit you buy to last more than one or two trips to the beach or one or two long weekends by the pool and still look great. If this sounds like you, read on!

1. Check to see where it was made. Not all countries are equal in their swimwear manufacturing expertise. Countries that consistently product quality swimwear include: Brazil, Columbia and even the USA!

2. Check how the fabric feels. If it is rough and scratchy, and doesn't immediately bounce back when you stretch it out - put the suit down even if you love it and move on. If the fabric is soft, thick and stretches and bounces back easily it is good quality fabric.

3. Check the quality of the print. Well made fabric can be found in solids and prints. Solid fabrics fibers are usually dyed before they are knit. Print fabric are usually applied to solid white fabric after it has been knit. A good pattern will not show any white when pulled or stretched. If the pattern you like shows white where there was color when not stretched - put it down and move on.

4. Check the quality of construction. A well-made suit won't have loose strings, crooked seams, snags, pulls, scratched hardware or cracked beads etc.

5. Check how the suit REALLY fits. A bikini or one-piece should fit you so well that you don't have to constantly adjust it when you are walking or moving normally. If you are adjusting here and there when trying on, that particular design may not be right for your body style. Of course if you love it, and have to have it (after confirming it is well made with good fabric) we understand. That is that passion for fashion all of us share!

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