Long-time shoppers of Anthropologie have been voicing escalating concerns over the noticeable decline in the quality of the retailer's clothing. Once renowned for its whimsical, high-quality pieces, Anthropologie now seems to struggle with maintaining the standards that built its reputation. A Reddit thread titled "Anyone else notice the quality of Anthropologie clothing has taken a nosedive?" has garnered over 200 comments, with users sharing experiences that indicate a consistent drop in product quality.
One user noted a stark comparison in stitching quality, particularly on jean shorts, which now resemble the construction you might find at a more budget-friendly retailer like American Eagle. This sentiment was echoed by others who highlighted the rough, stiff feel of fabrics compared to previous collections. "The clothes just don’t look as nicely constructed as they used to. I don’t really know how to explain it. They just don’t look like they justify the price tag anymore," one shopper lamented.
The thread, which has received over 200 upvotes and numerous comments, paints a vivid picture of widespread disillusionment. For instance, user dirtyundercarriage, who has stopped shopping at Anthropologie, aptly summarized many others' feelings by stating, "I stopped shopping there a few years ago because the quality no longer justified the price. I am not paying top dollar for poorly constructed polyester. They are selling fast fashion quality at Anthro prices."
More depressing tales unfold as shoppers recount their attempts to shop at Anthropologie only to leave empty-handed due to the inferior quality of the garments. A particularly poignant story comes from user FullofContradictions, who excitedly visited an Anthropologie store to revamp her wardrobe after a significant promotion, only to find "minimal options displayed, half the stuff on the sale rack full of runs, holes, or otherwise damaged fabric."
Further reinforcing the decline, other comments highlighted the overly simplistic and boxy designs, the prevalence of cheap synthetic materials like polyester, and a general departure from the intricate, thoughtfully constructed items that once defined the brand. User Honor_Harrington_ noted the shift in quality began around 2013 and saw a sharp decline around the COVID-19 pandemic. "It really plummeted. I don’t even look at their website anymore," they confessed.
Adding to the chorus of dissatisfaction, user jbcg pointed out that "so few natural fibers" are used in current collections, leading to clothes that feel "real chintzy," while moxieroxsox remarked on the uninspiring designs that no longer carry the charm and uniqueness Anthropologie was once known for.
The criticism doesn't stop at quality and material. Several users, like 77geminis, expressed confusion over Anthropologie's target demographic, questioning the practicality and appeal of items like "overpriced crop tops and tissue-thin tees" for older women who might have the disposable income the brand targets.
Final Thoughts
While some shoppers like Rururaspberry pointed out that not all brands sold by Anthropologie have dipped in quality, there is a significant increase in the store's in-house products, which are perceived as being made at lower costs and thus offering less value. The collective sentiment from the Reddit thread paints a clear picture: Anthropologie's decline in quality is driving away its once-loyal customer base, and the brand's future success may hinge on its ability to address these concerns and return to its roots
