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[blasphemina]

I hate when people want to order from me because they think since I'm a Western designer I should and will charge significantly less on something they found on a site in japan. And that I'll make them a replica. And they say it as though they are doing ME a favor by giving me this pittance

Comments

[blasphemina]

"Unfortunately I would likely charge about 350-380 for a coat like that. Also, I do not do replicas. I find it rude to the original designer. I appreciate the offer, but the thing is, Lolita clothing is terribly time and cost consuming to make. That is why it costs the price it does. 100% wool is pretty spendy. Even at the warehouse by me it's at least $20 a yard and that coat would call for 6-8 yards of wool. Plus lining. Plus fake fur. Plus buttons. Plus time. Plus shipping. Plus interfacing. Plus labels. Plus time drafting the pattern. Plus electricity to power everything that needs using to make the garment.

Designers and seamstresses don't make stuff for the cost of fabric only or they'd not make a profit and they need to make a profit, even a small one, in order to live, eat and pay bills. I really don't mean to be the bearer of bad news and I promise you I am not trying to sound snarky or rude, but if you are looking to spend any less than what they are asking, you will likely get a sub quality coat that won't last more than a few months and might not fit right. Japanese designers have the distinct advantage of having less expensive fabrics and factories to make their garments which lowers the price. As most of the Western designers make everything ourselves or with one or two part time helpers, we have to charge what anyone else in the industry would charge for this amount of work.

My advice would be to save up and not cut corners if you want a nice coat. I hope this helps you."

[chouyu_31]

That's not nearly as snarky as they deserve, but probably better PR. :)

[blasphemina]

I try my best to thorough and honest without being rude.

[indigo_tide]

I think you wrote a good response, I can't believe she felt kicked in the teeth after that. She must be 12.

[blasphemina]

Thank you! It's so hard for me, because I'm painfully honest and don't like to coddle, I feel like if I don't word things very carefully it feeds into the reputation I have locally for being bitchy. Being truthful and being bitchy are two different things, but people still think I'm mean if I say what's what.

But in the end at least I told her hard truths so maybe she won't do it someone else.