Replacement for Talbots?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Lafayette 148

I can’t figure out where the extra $$ comes from with this. I’m willing to pay those prices if there’s a reason but I haven’t been able to find it. It seems like just the same clothes as brands that cost 50% less.

The pieces that I have — mostly jackets, are very well-made, from decent fabrics. Even the linings are nicely done. If anything, I find them comparable to much more expensive designer lines at bridge prices, and a stellar value when I can find them on sale.

PP: Please suggest some brands that you feel are comparable, that cost 50% less. I’d genuinely like to know.

Well, I’m glad and maybe you’re just more knowledgeable than me. I tried a dress that was nearly $1000 full price and it seemed the same as other dresses I have from Vince, the saks house brand, etc. Maybe if I tried a jacket or something I’d see the difference.

Maybe. I’ve never tried dresses or blouses, so maybe the tailored pieces stand out more (to me) vs other brands. FWIW, I made most of my purchases from Saks — so those are the types of brands I’m comparing them with, although I once cleaned up at Nordstrom Rack, and got several jackets.
My Mom used to sew, so when I buy a jacket, I’m looking at fabric and fit, but also looking at things like construction. I’m not pushing the brand, just clarifying why I’ve found the things I’ve purchased to be excellent values.

I really would like suggestions re: less expensive brands that you feel are comparable. I have a sweater by Vince— but nothing tailored.

Honestly I think you’re just much more knowledgeable than me. I’m not sure I can tell the difference between a $600 Veronica Beard blazer and a $1200 Lafayette 148 one, but I believe you that there is one. You clearly know enough to know.

Also, FWIW, I really got into Lafayette years ago when Edward Wilkerson was the head designer. I’m much pickier about their clothing now, which doesn’t work as well for me as it used to. I’m more likely to shop brands like Everlane for base pieces, and shop my closet for older Lafayette jackets, and also a few that I’ve still got from Lord & Taylor. I have a few Talbots summer dresses that I’m very glad that I held onto, along with a few pairs of stretch wool pants. I like Eileen Fisher too, but EF is a long way from Talbots, so not really relevant for this thread.

[Anonymous]

Some Johnny Was tops but some are way too busy. They are expensive.