I have a vintage silk, pearl coloured Alexander McQueen jacket that is, in every aspect, a work of art. Nowadays I'm scared to try it on as my upper arms have grown an inch or two and when I bought it it was already at the limit. The lapels are a sort of trompe l'oeil of sartorial mastery and it goes with everything, especially jeans.

I will never part with it.

Why?

For my granddaughters.

I want it to serve as an example of what well-made looks and feels like. These qualities seem to either be receding or disappearing altogether.

My husband has a saying that we're not rich enough to buy cheap--I could not agree more.

If something speaks to me at my core and it's well made I will find a way to buy it.

I used to accompany my daughter shopping when she was a teenager, her eyes would light up at this frilly thing or that sparkly bob and I wouldn't say no, don't buy it. What I would do is take her over to the more upscale section (call call it expensive if you like) and I would say, touch that fabric, look how it drapes, feel the quality and take a look at the seams, the buttons, the hem; now try it on and see how it feels compared to the other cheaper piece. This will not fall apart on you after the second wash, that other one will and you'll have spent money on it, money that took me time and effort to earn, and it will be useless to you. Now which do you think is the most expensive? She needed no other lesson in purchasing than this.

Now she uses this example with her own daughter.

By cherishing well-made items, we honor the dedication and artistry of the craftsmen behind them, as well as the natural resources that went into their creation.

Moreover, well-made objects possess a unique quality that transcends the mundane and speaks to our higher aspirations as human beings. In a world marred by conflict and negativity, these items offer a respite, lifting our spirits above the noise and chaos. They embody the essence of time, patience, and love infused into their creation, serving as tangible expressions of craftsmanship and artistry.

Ultimately, by embracing things that are made well, we not only enhance our well-being but also contribute to a collective elevation of consciousness. In a society often consumed by discord and division, the pursuit of beauty, quality, and authenticity can serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us seek solace in the simplicity of well-made things and the enduring resilience they embody.

With love,
Maxine & Elisa

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Photo by Emmanuel Boldo on Unsplash