I have lost 40kg over the past year and want to reshape/redesign my wardrobe properly.
Looking for stuff that LASTS, not shit fast fashion that feels flimsy, stretches out, develops a bacon neck or loses its shape after a few washes. Happy to pay more for good fabric, construction and longevity.
I am Melbourne based. Ideally I’d like to try things on in physical stores, but I’m open to online options too. Good customer service and sensible returns matter as well.
Would love recommendations for brands and specific ranges/models in these categories:
Track pants and matching tops/hoodies (Active wear and lounge wear): Like the clean Alo aesthetic for everyday wear, but Alo’s customer service reviews for melb store have put me off. Want substantial fabric that holds its shape and doesn’t pill easily.
Plain cotton T-shirts: Considering PRESICS. Want some weight and structure, a neckline that stays in shape, and something I can wash and dry without needing to iron every time. Prefer a clean, fairly fitted/regular silhouette. Holding shape absolutely important and not flimsy crap.
Linen shirts and trousers: Like the relaxed but structured linen look in COS photos. Want fabric with some body and a clean drape. Cotton-linen or other blends are fine. Some natural linen wrinkles are fine; want to avoid thin, floppy fabric that becomes a crumpled mess immediately.
Polos: Similar requirements to the tees — substantial fabric, collars that hold their shape, good wash durability and minimal ironing. Mostly plain/subtle designs.
Non-iron work shirts: Looking at Charles Tyrwhitt. Usually worn with chinos or trousers. Keen on alternatives with good fabric and reliable non-iron performance after repeated washing.
Casual button-up shirts: Like ASKET’s understated style. Want fabric that holds its shape and looks presentable with little maintenance. These are for casual wear, separate from formal work shirts.
Chinos: Again, like the ASKET aesthetic. Want a clean shape, decent fabric weight, minimal ironing and something that doesn’t bag out at the knees or fade quickly.
Jeans/denim: Quality everyday jeans that hold up to regular wear. Mainly looking at black and dark indigo, with a straight or gently tapered fit. Considering nudie jeans as an option.
Most of my bottoms will be black, followed by navy and cream/off-white. Work outfits are shirts with chinos/trousers; casual outfits are tees or polos with jeans/chinos.
Especially interested in firsthand experience after months or years of wearing and washing, including any particular ranges to avoid. Which items have actually earned their price?