“Fashion is not necessarily about labels. It’s not about brands. It’s about something else that comes from within you.” — Ralph Lauren
Sure, Ralph. How ironic coming from the guy who charges $55 for a plain white T-shirt just because there’s a polo player on it. I’m not one for fashion knowledge, so maybe there’s a reason for that price other than just wanting to impress people, but it’s doubtful.
I am the very definition of basic, with a boring yet affordable wardrobe, but any time I’ve tried to go a little outside the lines and buy something different, it has not gone well. Pro tip: You have to be a supermodel or Peg Bundy to carry off animal print leggings. If you aren’t either, don’t do it, even if they are from a pricey designer. Just. Don’t.
Would it be fun if I could buy any brand or label I want, regardless of price? Maybe, but that’s not the reality. Every once in a while, I score something at a yard sale or thrift store, so there are one or two designer items in my closet, but that’s it. However, I keep a mental list of “splurges” that I would buy if I were to hit the lottery. Since the total of my lottery winnings to date is about $20, it’s unlikely. Still, sometimes, it’s fun to think about my list.
- A Louis Vuitton Never-Full. It’s a bag, and I love them. I don’t know why, but I feel a little tug of envy every time I see one. It’s just a big bag with fancy letters, so why do I want one so much? Is social media influencing me? Probably not; I don’t follow brands online. Is it because they’re everywhere, and it’s like having a case of FOMO, and I’m missing out? Probably.
- A Chanel logo pearl necklace. I may be low-key obsessed with Chanel anything. It started when I used to steal my mother’s Chanel No. 5 perfume in high school and then discovered they made bags, sunglasses, and jewelry. There are many lovely necklaces in my jewelry box, and that’s wonderful, but the famous logo of two intertwined Cs still catches my eye whenever I see one on someone else.
- A Cartier Tank Francaise watch. Princess Diana owned one, and I loved her sense of style. However, she had a royal budget, and I only have a royal attitude, so I will stick with my Snoopy Watch. I hardly ever even wear a watch since my phone has a clock, and I stare at that a lot. Maybe if I got a Cartier, I’d put my phone down more and spend less time doom scrolling through social media. Yeah, probably not.
It’s a mystery why these incredibly expensive pieces fascinate me so much. It’s not that they represent success; some people rent designer bags, shoes, and dresses. Others put themselves in ridiculous amounts of credit card debt just to have the latest gear. That’s a bad idea because, face it, any bag can carry your stuff, any necklace can be blingy and fun, and any watch will tell time. So why care whose initials are on them or what celebrity is walking around with the same accessory?
Sure, some higher-end brands are better quality and last longer. My dad always told me, “Buy cheap, pay twice,” and he was right. Anything made with quality materials and workmanship will last longer than something cheap, so while my budget isn’t huge, I do splash out for better quality whenever I can.
Why are luxury brands so appealing? It’s probably a combination of factors, but would I really run off to the shops if my Powerball numbers came in? It’s hard to say. Maybe we all need a few fantasy picks in our head, just for fun? Kind of like Teyve in “Fiddler on the Roof.” He’s mostly happy about who he is but can’t help wondering what it might be like, as he says, “If I were a wealthy man.” I’m incredibly grateful for all I have, but I’m still keeping my eyes peeled at the thrift stores; you never know, right?
Brenda Kelley Kim has lived in Marblehead for 50 years, and is an author, freelance writer, and mother of three. Her column appears weekly.
