In theory, I love these capsule collections for Target - a Botkier-designed bag for $50? Uh YES PLEASE, that sounds a hell of a lot better than $500. I was actually both excited and a bit miffed when Target introduced their Botkier collection a while after I made what I consider an investment purchase, for this very reason. But then again, why don't I own a single item from any of these Target GO International collections when they seem to be targeted exactly at my age group and level of purchasing power?
"Target delivers designer style at guilt-free prices," the website boasts, continuing: "Tracy Feith for Target starting at $14.99"
I find it the absolute opposite, actually. Obviously most pieces run closer to $30 or $40 for a top or skirt, respectively, and that doesn't feel quite so guilt-free to me. In fact, I'd much rather splurge on one beautiful piece from the actual label than buy five or so of these capsule collection pieces.
Am I glad that these options are now available to the masses? (Seriously, it's called mass/fast fashion, I'm not just displaying some strange form of fashion elitism.) Yes. Yes, I'm glad. Grateful, even.
I just feel like these fit in a rather awkward price and appeal window. Every time I go to a Target, I think I'll be enticed to buy a piece from one of these collections, but as I finger the material or turn over the shoe, I'm always put off either by the quality or something will be just off about the piece - maybe it's the price, or maybe it's the (lack of) shopping experience. I just feel as if it's never cheap enough to buy off-the-cuff nor special enough to be a meaningful purchase. So there is no level of satisfaction on either "scoring a deal" or the excitement from having bought a beautiful piece of fashion.
To reference the aforementioned case study of the Botkier collection:
Sneak Peek! Botkier for Target
Botkier for Target handbags are right around the corner and we've got 'em for your viewing pleasure. These bags — priced $20-$50 — will be at select Target stores and at Target.com July 20 through September 14. The line includes clutches, wristlets, satchels and hobos that encompass the designer’s philosophy of using hardware as the “jewelry” of the handbag. [fabsugar.com]
Staying true to her aesthetic, Monica's bags for Target are both modern and functional or as the designer says "a mix of luxury and utility with a downtown edge. It is for the chic, modern woman - it features rich textures and luxe metallics, combining my signature use of hardware as the jewelry of a handbag while still keeping a focus on functionality." [stylelist.com]While I was at first very excited to buy a cute little Botkier for Target clutch when I read these reviews, the excitement quickly wore off when I fully realized what I'd be getting for my $20- $50: just a taste of her design aesthetic without any of the high quality I'd come to expect. Disappointing. I'd rather just buy a cute piece as cheap as I can from say, forever21 than spend my hard-earned $20 - $50 on a similarly low-quality piece.
vs.
vs.
~$20 v. $650 v. $9.50 Can you tell the difference?
Better yet, here's what I consider the best compromise:
vs.~$20 v. $650 v. $9.50 Can you tell the difference?
Better yet, here's what I consider the best compromise:
| Botkier gladiator clutch, | ||
| SKU: 82732-H | ||
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| Description This stylish and edgy clutch is highlighted with prime Italian leather. A flap with custom Botkier turn lock closure, sculpted pyramid studs, leather bound edges and thick hand stitched details create this unique clutch. The main compartment is lined with logo lining and includes one zip pocket, interior logo plate on leather platform and a multifunctional pocket with key-chain. Only 1 left in stock--order soon. Colors: black Material: Italian leather Dimensions: 10 1/2'' x 1 1/4'' x 5'' |
Maybe not though, seeing as I am without a job for the summer as of yet...
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