We are all familiar with the idea of high-end products versus their affordable, budget friendlier alternatives. But in terms of longevity, what should we opt for if we want to get the most our of an item? We delve into the world of price and quality differentials and help you to make the call.
Throwaway culture
We are living in a era dominated by the notion of a ‘throwaway culture’, a trend which has surfaced as consumerism grows. The concept applies to items which are classified as being disposable or if they are only short lived. Our throwaway culture is rooted largely in the appeal that inexpensive goods can have, and as they tend to be affordable, convenient fixes as opposed to buying luxury alternatives.
However, there are a series of drawbacks to consider, and it’s really up to the individual as a customer to weigh up the benefits. These habits have progressively created harmful impacts to our natural world, with the ‘fast fashion’ phenomena implicating many affordable clothing retailers. On the other hand, luxury goods are typically designed in adherence to set quality standards. This can help to curb our tendency to throw items away, as they should be made with longevity in mind. Purchasing luxury items is one way to help fight against fast fashion.
Is there such thing as a luxury ‘buzz’?
Many people who buy luxury goods do it for the emotiveness of the purchase. One study from the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology has even linked a boost in self-esteem to the value of making a luxury purchase. We often associate luxury goods with an authentic status, and they are often regarded as more valuable because of their stats as the best product available. Paying less for similar goods that do note bear the same excellent quality does not warrant the same emotive response, and this gives the ‘real McCoy’ its unique selling point. Purchasing something more luxurious than usual is an event, and shoppers are usually willing to put some research in place before their big investment.
Nowadays, shoppers are looking more and more for an experience when they make a purchase, and this can be facilitated in a variety of ways. Retailers have been pushed to create an engaging experience for their shoppers, and luxury brands achieved this at a remarkable standard. The high-end French department store Galaries Lafayette used an ‘invite only’ system to create a unique allure to their stores, with access to ‘Le Concierge’ lounge where VIP’s could enjoy unique services such as personalised shoppers and relaxation treats.
The ‘everyday luxury’ staples
A luxury product doesn’t have to be extravagant. In fact, it can simply be an item that you rely on everyday that is enhanced with excellent quality features.
Something as simple as buying an umbrella can be enhanced by opting for a luxury model. The Fulton Diamond Collection is a range of rainy-day essentials, including ladies umbrellas, crafted to the highest quality standards. From woven fabrics to stunning woods, luxe leather and intricate detailing on the hardware, the Diamond Collection certainly has a luxury visual appearance. When this is combined with the functionality of the range, the distinction between luxury and budget becomes clear. The advanced performance fibreglass frames provide impressive durability, making for a longer lasting investment overall. Umbrellas can often be disregarded as disposable items, but by purchasing a luxury product you can enjoy a more cost effective essential that needs replacing far less often that their cheaper market counterparts.
Will you change up your buying habits and invest in luxury?