I Went from $35 Flimsy Jackets to the $75 Plus Size 5XL Blazer: Here's What Changed

Do you have a closet full of jackets that look great online but fall apart after just a couple of washes? I certainly did. I was trying to save money on formal wear, but I learned the hard way that cheap jackets are a waste of both time and cash. Eventually, I decided to change my approach and upgrade my wardrobe.

Here's what happens when you stop buying cheap workwear and invest in quality instead:

• Your clothes maintain their appearance for much longer.
• You only need a few staple pieces rather than numerous cheap ones.
• The fit is actually correct, making you look and feel more professional.

Stage 1: The Cheap Phase ($30-$35)

My first attempt at buying a professional jacket online was disappointing. I wanted a simple black office blazer and found one for $32. It looked decent in the product photos, so I thought, how bad could it be? That $32 jacket lasted just three weeks before becoming unwearable.

These budget coats always seem to have the same issues:

• The Fabric: It's thin and feels plasticky. If the material isn't specified (like wool or polyester blend), assume it's the cheapest option available. It starts pilling almost immediately.
• The Sizing: My Asian-sized XXL fit more like a US medium. The shoulders were tight, and the sleeves were too short.
• The Stitching: The seams began pulling apart where the sleeves meet the body after just two wears.

Looking at reviews for similar $30 blazers confirmed my experience:

• "Sizing was way off. Looked like a sack, not a blazer." (1 Star)
• "Felt like tissue paper. Lining ripped when I put my hand in the pocket." (2 Stars)

If you see a blazer priced under $35, it's likely designed for single use. It will never provide that tailored, professional look. For a decent long velvet blazer, you'll need to spend more than this.

Verdict: Avoid anything under $35. It's simply throwing money away.

Stage 2: The Mid-Range Phase ($45-$55)

After my $32 disappointment, I moved up to the $50 price range. These jackets were... acceptable. This price point addresses some of the worst quality issues but introduces new, more subtle problems.

This particular jacket was marketed as a tailored suit jacket. It fit better in the shoulders, and the fabric felt thicker than the cheaper version. I felt optimistic initially, but after a month, the flaws became apparent.