As the temperature drops, winter clothing sales only rise exponentially. People go out to purchase expensive sweaters, knitwear, and most importantly down jackets. Customers are blinded by gimmicks and discount offers that many stores offer and simply purchase much of the winter clothing on a whim, not realizing they are paying more than what the clothing is actually worth.

According to “The Wall Street Journal”, U.S customers are surprisingly spending more on winter clothing every year, despite the various economical hardships that their nation is going through. While the fashion industry might be booming, people need to know what those coats are actually worth.

When shopping for what to wear during the winter, everyone should ask the following question: Can you tell the difference between a $300 down jacket from New Balance and a Moncler parka that is worth over $1,500? Advocates of costly winter apparel would most likely claim that outstanding quality, warmth, and texture are what separate the upscale parkas from the less extravagant ones. However, no person, through naked eyes, can distinguish anything outstanding other than the overhyped brand symbols and slogans such as ‘Canada Goose Arctic Program’.

In fact, many do not realize any difference unless they are told. Gideon, a student of SPPS and also a Moncler enthusiast, makes a claim: “Although I have like four down jackets all varying in prices, I honestly think they are all the same.” The world seems to be sharing Gideon’s point of view as Kate Upton, a famous model, once stated: “ ‘Made in Canada’ does not automatically mean a coat is better the one that is ‘Made in China’.” Kate is correct since a coat from China might be better in terms of efficiency and price.

Nevertheless, no one should degrade the excellent products that different big-name brands produce. Moreover, the wealthy ones should be more than welcomed to spend their money on whichever clothing they desire to purchase. However, the point being made in this article is that using months and months of savings money to purchase a pricy jacket is worthless, even on Christmas. If you can easily afford one, go ahead. But, never feel bad because others have $700 jackets when you do not because your $300 coat might do a better job.










Seungjin Jordan Choi
Grade 10
St. Paul Preparatory Seoul

* This article was posted in The Hermes, St. Paul Preparatory Seoul's student newspaper, No. 4 (Dec 15 2015) edition.

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