Why Are Designer Products Expensive?

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Often, the question arises: why are designer products so expensive? While generic products may have superficial similarities, the reality is that they are often inferior imitations of designs that have been meticulously crafted by highly trained, educated, and hardworking designers.

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Firstly, the primary reason designer goods are expensive is due to their low production volume. In the world of manufacturing, volume significantly affects cost. Companies like IKEA, Target, HM, and Muji are able to offer designer goods at lower prices because they produce in larger quantities. This allows for the implementation of logistics, flat packaging, and standardized manufacturing processes, which can reduce the intricacy and uniqueness of the final product.

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Logistics and standardization become necessary when scaling up production. The overall intention of the design might remain the same, but the details of the product often change to meet the demands of mass production. Additionally, the more time and effort invested in a product’s design and uniqueness, the higher the price.

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The Economic Context

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Another critical issue contributing to the high prices of designer products is the economic climate and the inability of many consumers to afford the actual quality of goods. Median incomes have not kept pace with the rising actual cost of living. People often resort to extended mortgage terms to “afford” housing, rely on government-backed student loans to “afford” education, and accept lower quality products to maintain the appearance of financial stability.

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The Past and Present

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William Gibson, in an interview, made a poignant observation about the quality of workwear in the mid-20th century. He noted how common workingmen in the 1940s wore shirts that were of better quality than many people's shirts today. These shirts, union-made in the USA, featured better fabric and stitching. A work shirt that sold for fifty cents was comparable in quality to today's Prada shirts. However, today, brands like Forever 21 and HM are selling clothing that often lasts less than ten washes, making it seem like a facade without substance.

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People today have learned to accept the facade because they cannot afford the underlying quality and integrity that higher-end designer products offer. This is not to say that everyone is buying Prada shirts, but the reality is that the facade often takes precedence over the substance of the product.

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Ultimately, the high prices of designer products reflect the value of the time, effort, and craftsmanship involved in their creation. They deserve fair compensation for the work they do. The economic factors at play also mean that consumers are willing to pay more for goods that offer the quality and longevity that lower-priced products often lack.